How long can I stay in Japan on a Professor Visa?

Typically, the Professor Visa allows you to stay for one to three years, depending on your contract with the educational institution.

Can my family accompany me to Japan?

Yes, your spouse and dependent children can apply for dependent visas to accompany you during your stay in Japan.

Is the Certificate of Eligibility compulsory?

Yes, the Certificate of Eligibility is a mandatory document for your visa application and must be obtained by your host institution in Japan.

Can I extend my Professor Visa?

Yes, you can apply for a visa extension at the local immigration office in Japan before your current visa expires.

What should I do if my visa application is rejected?

If your application is rejected, you'll receive an explanation. You can address the issues mentioned and reapply, or seek assistance from your host institution.

Do I need to know Japanese to get the visa?

While Japanese language skills are not mandatory for the visa application, knowing the language can be beneficial for your daily life and work in Japan.

Can I work part-time with a Professor Visa?

Your primary focus should be on your academic role, but you might be able to undertake supplementary work related to your field with approval from the institution and immigration authorities.

What is the processing time for the Professor Visa?

The processing time can vary, but it generally takes from a few weeks to a couple of months, especially dependent on acquiring the Certificate of Eligibility.

Are there any special health requirements for the Professor Visa?

No specific health requirements, but general medical checks might be required. It's best to check any specific health policies with your consulate.

Can I switch from a different visa to a Professor Visa within Japan?

Yes, it is possible to change your visa status to a Professor Visa while already in Japan, but you'll need to follow procedures at a regional immigration office and meet all the necessary requirements.

Japan Professor Visa Guide

Find out everything you need to know about Japan Professor Visa application process and requirements.

What Is the Japan Professor Visa?

The Professor Visa for Japan, also known as a '教授' visa, is specifically designed for academic professionals who are invited to Japan to engage in research, instruction, or education at institutions like universities or colleges. This visa is ideal for professors, associate professors, or lecturers who have received a formal job offer from a recognized Japanese educational institution. It facilitates their stay, usually extending from one to three years, enabling them to focus on their academic and research pursuits without immigration concerns. The Professor Visa aims to attract global academic talent and foster international collaborations in Japan's higher education sector.

Professor Visa Requirements for Japan

Explore the key requirements for obtaining your Professor Visa for Japan. This section covers the necessary documentation, eligibility criteria, and any specific conditions you must meet to successfully apply for and secure your visa.

Job Offer from a Japanese Institution
You must have a formal job offer from a recognized Japanese university or academic institution for a position such as a professor or lecturer.
Certificate of Eligibility (CoE)
Your host institution in Japan must obtain a Certificate of Eligibility on your behalf, which is critical for your visa application.
Completed Visa Application Form
Fill out the appropriate visa application form provided by the Japanese embassy or consulate in your country.
Current Passport
A valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining and with blank visa pages.
Photographs
Passport-sized photos taken within the past six months, following official guidelines.
Health Certificates
Medical and health certificates as required by Japanese immigration authorities.
Academic Qualifications
Copies of your degrees, diplomas, or certificates that qualify you for the academic position.
Detailed Work Plan
A document detailing your work plan, research, and academic activities during your stay in Japan.

How to Apply for Japan Professor Visa

Understand the process of applying for an Japan Professor Visa, including key steps, document submission, and what to expect throughout the application.

Receive Job Offer from Japanese Institution
Ensure you have a formal job offer from a recognized university or college in Japan. This offer is essential to apply for the visa.
Obtain Certificate of Eligibility (CoE)
The host institution in Japan will need to apply for your Certificate of Eligibility on your behalf. This document proves that you're eligible to work in Japan as a professor.
Prepare Necessary Documents
Gather all required documents such as your passport, photographs, health certificates, and academic qualifications.
Complete Visa Application Form
Fill out the designated visa application form available on the Japanese embassy or consulate website in your home country.
Submit Application to Japanese Embassy or Consulate
Submit your visa application form along with all required documents to your nearest Japanese embassy or consulate.
Attend Interview if Required
You might be called for an interview to discuss the details of your job and stay in Japan. Be prepared to explain your academic role and intentions.
Wait for Approval
The processing time for the visa application can vary, so be patient while your application is being reviewed.
Receive Your Visa and Prepare for Travel
Once approved, you will receive your visa. Make travel arrangements and ensure all documents are in order for your journey to Japan.

Useful Japan Professor Visa Resources

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan

Immigration Services Agency of Japan

Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO)

Japan Visa Application Centres

Japan Professor Visa Advice

When applying for the Professor Visa for Japan, start your preparations well in advance. The process involves multiple steps that require gathering specific documents and forms from both your home country and your Japanese host institution. Make sure your host university provides a Certificate of Eligibility, as this is a crucial document for your visa application. Also, double-check for any recent updates or changes in the visa application process by visiting official Japanese immigration websites regularly.

Japan Professor Visa Guide

What Is the Japan Professor Visa?

Professor Visa Requirements for Japan

Job Offer from a Japanese Institution

Certificate of Eligibility (CoE)

Completed Visa Application Form

Current Passport

Photographs

Health Certificates

Academic Qualifications

Detailed Work Plan

How to Apply for Japan Professor Visa

Receive Job Offer from Japanese Institution

Obtain Certificate of Eligibility (CoE)

Prepare Necessary Documents

Complete Visa Application Form

Submit Application to Japanese Embassy or Consulate

Attend Interview if Required

Wait for Approval

Receive Your Visa and Prepare for Travel

Useful Japan Professor Visa Resources

Japan Professor Visa Advice

Frequently Asked Questions

Japan Passport Details and Ranking 2024