IT & Systems
1 Current Situation of Foreign Employment in Japan’s IT Sector
Japan’s IT industry is rapidly expanding due to ongoing digital transformation. As a result, the demand for highly skilled technology professionals continues to grow every year.
However, Japan faces a significant shortage of domestic IT specialists. To address this gap, many companies—ranging from major corporations to small and medium-sized enterprises—are increasingly hiring foreign engineers.
The number of foreign IT professionals working in Japan has been steadily rising, particularly those holding the “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” residence status. This trend reflects the industry’s continued internationalization.
２ Main Residence Statuses for Employment in the IT Industry
This section outlines the primary residence status available to foreign professionals who wish to work in Japan’s IT industry.
If you wish to work in Japan’s IT sector, the most commonly used residence status is the Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services visa.
To obtain this visa, you generally need educational qualifications related to IT, such as:
・A degree in computer science, information engineering, or a closely related field
・Graduation from a vocational school specializing in programming or software development
・A degree in mathematics, physics, or another discipline closely linked to IT
In addition, your job duties in Japan must be directly related to the field you studied. For example, if you wish to work in system development, you are expected to have a degree or practical experience in areas such as information engineering or computer science.
3 Consult a Lawyer Experienced in Immigration Matters
When planning to work in Japan, it is crucial to understand the visa application process and the legal requirements involved.
Improper procedures can lead to serious issues, including visa denial. To avoid complications, we recommend consulting a lawyer experienced in immigration law, who can guide you through the necessary steps and ensure that your application meets all legal standards.
