Checked on an official page
Highly Skilled Professional (points-based)
work / talent
Who it suits: professionals scoring enough points
Main requirements
Points-based: required score 70 points. Three activity types: advanced academic research (HSP (i)(a)), advanced specialized/technical (HSP (i)(b)) and advanced business management (HSP (i)(c)). Specialized/technical and business management require an annual salary of at least JPY 3 million. HSP (i) grants a five-year period of stay. HSP (ii), available after 3+ years in HSP (i), has an indefinite period of stay.
Family: Spouse may work. Parent(s) may accompany 'under certain conditions', and so may a domestic worker. Children are not mentioned in the leaflet.
Read on the official page (7 Oct 2026). Official page
Digital Nomad (Designated Activities), 6 months
remote work (short)
Who it suits: remote workers from visa-exempt countries
Main requirements
Annual income of at least JPY 10 million; 6 months, no extension, then 6 months' wait to reapply; JPY 10m medical insurance.
Family: spouse or child may accompany under the matching status
School: 6-month cap makes it unsuitable for a school year.
Read on the official page (7 Oct 2026). Official page
Other routes, not yet checked
I know these routes exist but haven't read them on an official page yet. Treat them as a starting point.
Business Manager / Engineer-Specialist in Humanities-International Services
work
Who it suits: employed or business-owning parents
Not yet checked on an official page.
Visa rules change often, and this is not legal advice. Check the official page and the embassy before you apply.
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