Foreign University Faculty and Researchers in Japan Obtain Permanent Residency After 5 Years
Can Foreign University Faculty and Researchers in Japan Obtain Permanent Residency After 5 Years?
Foreign university professors and researchers with significant achievements, such as Nobel Prize winners or those recognized for their contributions to Japan, may be eligible for relaxed permanent residency (PR) requirements. This guide explains the eligibility criteria and processes for foreign faculty and researchers seeking permanent residency in Japan.
Contributing to Japan: Criteria for Foreign Professors and Researchers
Typically, PR in Japan requires at least 10 years of residence, with 5 years under a work visa. However, foreign nationals who are deemed to have made substantial contributions to Japan may qualify for PR after 5 years of residency. This includes professionals in fields like education, research, business, and sports.
For university faculty and researchers, contributions in education and research may help fulfill the criteria for PR. These cases are outlined in Japan’s “Contribution to Japan” guidelines, which also apply to other sectors like economics and industry.
Applying for Permanent Residency via the Highly-Skilled Professional Points System
Foreign faculty and researchers are encouraged to calculate their Highly-Skilled Professional (HSP) points, as this system can further expedite PR applications. Professors and researchers under the HSP 1(a) category may be eligible to apply for PR after just 1 year of residency if they score 80 points or more at the time of application and the year prior.
If your HSP score is between 70 and 79 points, you may apply after 3 years of residency. This system rewards academic achievement, professional experience, language proficiency, and other factors.
Contributions to Japan in the Education Sector
For university faculty, contributions are assessed based on guidelines for those working in Japan’s educational sector. Professors, associate professors, and lecturers at Japanese universities who have engaged in teaching activities for at least 3 years may qualify for PR. These individuals are recognized for their role in improving Japan’s higher education standards.
Key Eligibility Criteria:
- Must be employed full-time at a Japanese university or equivalent institution.
- Must have engaged in educational activities for at least 3 years.
Examples of PR Approvals in the Education Field:
- Case 1: A professor who worked at a Japanese university for 7 years was granted PR for their contributions to higher education.
- Case 2: An associate professor who contributed to Japan’s education system through teaching and research activities was granted PR after 9 years and 5 months of residence.
- Case 3: A lecturer recognized for advancing foreign language education in Japan was granted PR after 8 years of residence.
Contributions to Japan in the Research Sector
For researchers, contributions are evaluated based on scholarly publications, citations, and other research outputs. The evaluation process in the research sector is less defined than in education, with emphasis placed on the significance of published work and its impact on the field.
Key Eligibility Criteria:
- Research papers must be published in reputable academic journals.
- The work should have been cited by other researchers or recognized by professional organizations.
Examples of PR Approvals in the Research Field:
- Case 1: A researcher in science and technology was granted PR after publishing dozens of papers in academic journals, contributing significantly to Japan’s scientific advancements.
- Case 2: A foreign researcher recognized for groundbreaking research in Japanese literature and awarded prestigious accolades, including a national honor, was granted PR after 9 years.
Evaluating Additional Contributions for Permanent Residency
Foreign faculty and researchers may also qualify for PR if they receive prestigious international awards, government honors, or participate in public service activities commissioned by the Japanese government or local authorities for over 3 years. Examples include:
- Nobel Prize or Fields Medal recipients.
- Recipients of Japanese honors like the Order of Culture or the Order of the Rising Sun.
- Individuals appointed by the Japanese government to serve on committees for public benefit activities.
Conclusion: Navigating Permanent Residency for Foreign Faculty and Researchers
For foreign university professors and researchers, Japan offers a more streamlined path to PR through the Highly-Skilled Professional points system and contributions to Japanese education or research. Calculating your HSP points and considering contributions to Japan can help determine your eligibility. If you meet the criteria, PR provides the opportunity for a more stable and flexible future in Japan.
For those looking to apply, consulting an immigration specialist can help ensure a smooth application process.
Professional
Masakazu Murai
Immigration consultant, Financial advisor
18 years experience in Investment Banking at Mitsubishi UFJ Morgan Stanley. He had provided financial advisory more than 500 entrepreneurs and senior management.
During his tenure, he worked as an employee union executive committee member in promoting diversity, including the active participation of foreigners and women in the workplace, and engaged in activities to improve the working environment. He specializes in consulting and financial consulting on the status of residence for foreigners.
Gyoseishoshi Immigration Lawyer
CMA(Japanese financial analyst license)
CFP (Certified Financial Planner)
Master of Business Administration in Entrepreneurship
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