Professor
Researchers, lecturers and professors teaching or conducting research at universities and equivalent institutions.
The Professor is a Japanese work & skilled visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~¥4,000 on grant; Certificate of Eligibility is free) and processing time (~1-3 months for the Certificate of Eligibility), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Professor is for
Researchers, lecturers and professors teaching or conducting research at universities and equivalent institutions.
Counts toward the 10-year residence rule (faster via Highly Skilled points).
Professor - eligibility criteria
- Appointment at a university, college or equivalent
- Role involves teaching and/or research
- Relevant academic qualifications/experience
- Institution willing to sponsor
- Salary meeting standard levels
Professor cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Professor (Japan) is ~¥4,000 on grant; Certificate of Eligibility is free, with an indicative processing time of ~1-3 months for the Certificate of Eligibility. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at Immigration Services Agency of Japan.
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Certificate of Eligibility filed in Japan; visa issued at a consulate abroad |
| Length of stay | 5 years, 3 years, 1 year or 3 months (renewable) |
| Work rights | Research and teaching at the sponsoring university/college |
| Study rights | Study allowed alongside work |
| Government fee | ~¥4,000 on grant; Certificate of Eligibility is free |
| Processing time | ~1-3 months for the Certificate of Eligibility |
| Route to PR | Counts toward the 10-year residence rule (faster via Highly Skilled points). |
Pathway & next steps
Counts toward the 10-year residence rule (faster via Highly Skilled points).
Many applicants also compare Instructor · Instructor, Researcher · Researcher, HSP (i) · Highly Skilled Professional (i). Run a free VisaChief check to see which Japanese route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Professor pitfalls we fix
Professor - frequently asked questions
How much does the Professor cost?
The Professor government fee is ~¥4,000 on grant; Certificate of Eligibility is free. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at Immigration Services Agency of Japan before applying.
How long does the Professor take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~1-3 months for the Certificate of Eligibility. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Professor lead to permanent residence?
Counts toward the 10-year residence rule (faster via Highly Skilled points).
Can I work on the Professor?
Work rights: Research and teaching at the sponsoring university/college.
Who can apply for the Professor?
Researchers, lecturers and professors teaching or conducting research at universities and equivalent institutions.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Japan government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- Immigration Services Agency of Japan - official Japan immigration authority