Japan to grant residency to high-earning professionals after 1 year

Government drafts new rules to pull in top global talent

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Japan placed 25th out of 35 countries in terms of attractiveness to highly educated workers in a 2019 ranking by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development. (Photo by Kosuke Imamura)

Nikkei staff writers

TOKYO -- The Japanese government decided Friday to update immigration rules in hopes of luring world-class talent, including through slashing the wait for high-earning professionals to obtain permanent residency.

Japan currently grants visas to highly skilled professionals under a point-based system, accounting for factors like academic history, work experience and research achievements. Those in this category can obtain permanent residency after up to three years instead of the typical 10.

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