日本語

It is possible for Coordinator for International Relations (CIR) and Assistant Language Teachers (ALT) participating in the JET Program to apply for permanent residency in Japan. JET participants are usually assigned to local government international exchange departments or schools and boards of education. The JET participants receive a three-year work visa, and their residency status is categorized as “Education” (ALT), “Technology, Humanities, International Services” (CIR), or “Skilled Labor” (SEA). The JET Program has a maximum residency period of 5 years, you can apply for PR during your stay.

Process for Applying for Permanent Residency through the JET Program:

Under Japan’s permanent residency system, a minimum of 10 years of residency is required. Therefore, JET Program participants would generally consider applying for permanent residency based on the Highly Skilled Professional visa category.

JET Program participants are employed by prefectural offices, boards of education, or other organizations, with fixed compensation rates. The JET participants receive an annual salary of 3.36 million yen in the first year, 3.6 million yen in the second year, 3.9 million yen in the third year, and 3.96 million yen in the fourth and fifth years (although it could be argued that these amounts could be higher, considering international standards, such as around 50,000 USD). However, income tax, residence tax, and pension contributions are covered by the relevant authorities, so there should be no issues regarding tax payment or pension enrollment.

The key point is whether JET participants can accumulate enough points through other factors to compensate for the limited salary scale (which does not receive additional points for contribution to Japan). Factors such as having studied at a Japanese university, holding the N1 level of Japanese proficiency, being an alumnus of a designated school, or possessing a master’s degree, MBA, IT certifications, or legal qualifications can contribute to obtaining the required points.

Consult Continental for assistance. They can handle applications from individuals working in regional areas (since JET participants are mostly located in regional areas).

Continental’s success stories:　https://g.co/kgs/aqB1zR

Assistance for Applicants in Areas Outside Tokyo

Continental can assist with applications in areas within the jurisdiction of the Tokyo Immigration Bureau (including Niigata, Yamanashi, Nagano, and other prefectures in the Kanto region). For applicants residing outside the Kanto region, Continental can prepare the application documents, including the required forms and supporting materials for highly skilled professionals, and send them to the applicant’s home address in the respective prefecture by mail.

Applicants are then responsible for submitting the application documents to the appropriate immigration bureau. Continental can provide support throughout the process. Immigration bureaus in rural areas tend to be more friendly and accommodating.

For those interested, please contact Continental. They strongly encourage JET Program participants to consider permanent residency in Japan.