Japan Sets New Guidelines for Highly Skilled Professional Visa

Japan has outlined the requirements for its Highly Skilled Professional visa, as confirmed by the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Successful applicants will be granted a five-year period of stay in Japan.

The standard required documents include a valid passport, one completed visa application form, one photograph, and a Certificate of Eligibility (COE). The COE, issued by a regional immigration authority under Japan's Immigration Services Agency, must be submitted as either the original document or a certified copy.

Nationals from Russia, CIS countries, and Georgia must submit two visa application forms and two photographs, while Chinese nationals are required to provide additional documents, including a copy of their Chinese Family Register or a Residence Certificate. Although the COE establishes eligibility under Japanese immigration law, it does not guarantee visa issuance, as the final assessment is at the discretion of the consulate.

Applicants are advised to verify current requirements with the consulate in their country.