Japan•Asia1-3 months
JPY ¥3,000
Varies by filing options
5 years, 3 years, 1 year or 3 months
Renewable
Renewal
Renewable
Family
Dependents allowed
PR Pathway
Yes
Sponsor
Job offer required
Work
Remote not required

Work visa for university professors and academics. For teaching, research guidance, and education at universities and higher institutions in Japan.
Japan's Professor visa grants status of residence for foreign academics to teach, conduct research, or provide research guidance at universities, junior colleges, and technical colleges. It covers full-time faculty and visiting lecturer roles at recognized higher-education institutions.
Stays range from 3 months to 5 years and are renewable. Dependents may join on a Family Stay visa; spouses can obtain permission to work up to 28 hours per week. The sponsoring university applies for a Certificate of qualification before the applicant applies for the visa stamp at a Japanese consulate.
This visa is ideal for foreign university professors, associate professors, and lecturers with a confirmed academic appointment at a Japanese higher-education institution.

Curious about life in Japan?
Discover cost of living, salary benchmarks, tax rates, and quality of life — everything you need to know before you make the move.
Visas you can typically switch to from this status.
Japan
JapanMust have a contract to engage in research, research guidance, or education at a university or equivalent institution in Japan.
Must possess the necessary academic or professional qualifications for the specific position (e.g., PhD, extensive research experience).
The institution must be recognized as a university or equivalent under Japanese law.
Must demonstrate sufficient income to live a stable life in Japan.
Education
bachelor or higher
Valid passport
Passport photos
Certificate of qualification
Employment contract
Educational credentials
Academic record
University registration (sponsor)
Job description (sponsor)
Contract copy (sponsor)
| Application for Certificate of Eligibility - Professor Application for Certificate of qualification (Professor status of residence) | — |

Discover how your answers compare with the published requirements. 2 minutes. Free to use.
Start Visa Discovery