Researcher
People conducting research under a contract with a public or private institution or company in Japan.
The Researcher 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 Researcher is for
People conducting research under a contract with a public or private institution or company in Japan.
Counts toward the 10-year residence rule (faster via Highly Skilled points).
Researcher - eligibility criteria
- Research contract with a Japanese institution or company
- Relevant academic background or experience
- Salary at standard professional levels
- Institution willing to sponsor
Researcher cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Researcher (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 under the sponsoring institution's contract |
| 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 Professor · Professor, HSP (i) · Highly Skilled Professional (i), Engineer / Humanities · Engineer / Specialist in Humanities / International Services. 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 Researcher pitfalls we fix
Researcher - frequently asked questions
How much does the Researcher cost?
The Researcher 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 Researcher 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 Researcher lead to permanent residence?
Counts toward the 10-year residence rule (faster via Highly Skilled points).
Can I work on the Researcher?
Work rights: Research under the sponsoring institution's contract.
Who can apply for the Researcher?
People conducting research under a contract with a public or private institution or company in Japan.
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