About moving to Japan
Japan is opening to more skilled immigrants. Working holiday is easy to get for Australians. Longer-term residency traditionally requires Japanese language skills, though new programs are reducing this barrier.
Working holiday visa for Japan
Working Holiday Visa
Live and work in Japan for up to 1 year.
- Age requirement: 18–30 years
- Key notes: Apply at the Japanese Embassy. No quota for Australians — generally processed within a week.
- Official source: www.au.emb-japan.go.jp
Skilled worker and residency visas for Japan
Highly Skilled Professional Visa
Points-based visa for academics, professionals, and business managers. Fast-track to permanent residency.
- Minimum education: Bachelor's degree
- Age limit: 18–65 years
- Key notes: 80+ points can lead to PR in just 1 year. Points awarded for education, income, age, and Japanese language.
- Official source: www.moj.go.jp
Specified Skilled Worker Visa
For workers in 16 specified industry sectors experiencing labour shortages.
- Age limit: 18–65 years
- Key notes: Must pass Japan-specific skills test and basic Japanese language test (JLPT N4 level).
- Official source: www.moj.go.jp
Visa comparison table
| Visa | Type | Age limit | Min education |
|---|---|---|---|
| Working Holiday Visa | working holiday | 18–30 | None required |
| Highly Skilled Professional Visa | points | 18+ | Bachelor's |
| Specified Skilled Worker Visa | skilled | 18+ | None required |