Key facts
- Japan is increasing income requirements for skilled foreign professionals seeking residence status.
- The government aims to align criteria with rising wages and focus on talent.
- New naturalization screening standards effective April 1, 2026, will require 10 years of residence and 5 years of tax records.
Japan is set to increase the income requirements for foreign nationals applying for highly skilled professional residence status. This move is intended to align the criteria with the country's rising wage levels and to place a greater emphasis on the talent and innovation potential of individuals. The government views these professionals as crucial for advancing Japanese companies and research institutions.
Under the existing "Japan System for Special Highly-Skilled Professionals" (J-Skip), requirements include a Master's degree or higher with an annual income of 20 million yen or more, or over 10 years of work experience with the same income threshold for advanced academic research and specialized/technical activities. For advanced business/management roles, the requirement is over 5 years of professional career with an annual income of 40 million yen or more. These professionals are also eligible for preferential treatment, such as applying for permanent residency after one year of stay.
Separately, new naturalization screening standards are set to take effect on April 1, 2026. These revisions, which are changes in administrative screening practice rather than amendments to the Nationality Act, will significantly impact applicants. The residence requirement for naturalization will be extended from 5 years to approximately 10 years, and the required period for tax certificates will increase from 1 year to 5 years. Additionally, social insurance payment confirmation will now require 2 years of records, up from 1 year.