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Japan · Asia

Work & Skilled

Official name: Highly Skilled Professional (HSP)

Points-based visa with PR fast-track in 1–3 years.

Min. income

$60,000/yr

Path to residency

Possible · conditions apply

Costs and timelines are estimates. Fees, exchange rates and processing times change; always confirm with the official government source. Disclaimer

* These are scoped planning figures, not an all-in family relocation quote or a promise of approval. All prices are estimates; confirm current fees with the issuing authority and service costs with providers. See the breakdown and decision rules below.

Who this visa is for

Points-based visa with PR fast-track in 1–3 years. Designed for applicants with at least $60,000/yr in stable income. Permanent residence and citizenship have separate eligibility requirements; neither is guaranteed.

  • PR in 1–3 yrs
  • Spouse can work
  • Parents can join

What to expect

Published processing estimate: 5–13 weeks. Document preparation and appointment waiting time may be additional; confirm with the consulate.

This pathway currently has a summary rather than a fully researched family-relocation guide. Check the free Czech sample to see the detailed format.

Family rules

  • ✓ Spouse
  • ✓ Children
  • ✗ Domestic partner
  • ✓ Dependent parents

Pets

Entry paperwork 1/5 · Extensive preparation

Two rabies vaccines, titer test, then a 180-day wait, plus advance notice of 40 days.

Quarantine: 12 hours or less if compliant; up to 180 days if not.

A relative comparison of entry paperwork for dogs and cats travelling from the continental US: 5 means fewer formalities, 1 means more extensive preparation. It does not rate cost, animal welfare, airline availability or breed acceptance; no pet move is effortless.

Not every animal or breed can automatically travel. Other species, destination breed restrictions and transit rules need separate checks; airlines may reject breeds the destination permits.

180-day waiting period after rabies titer.

Learn more about bringing your pet (incl. EU pet passport) →

* All prices and preparation times are estimates, not a quote or guaranteed departure date. Confirm exact prices and timing with a veterinarian experienced in pet relocation, the official veterinary authority, and your airline or pet transport provider. Vet visits, vaccines, microchips, certificates, endorsement, crates, flights, transit and onward travel may be charged separately.

Other visas in Japan

2 more pathways in Japan.