Hiring Foreign Talent in Japan’s Financial Sector
Hiring Foreign Talent in Japan Financial Sector
Beyond the standard Engineer / Specialist in Humanities / International Services status, many finance professionals qualify for premium categories such as the Highly Skilled Professional (HSP) visa—or the newly introduced J‑SKIP (Special Highly Skilled Professional) system. These higher‑tier visas offer faster paths to permanent residency and additional benefits that can differentiate your employment package.
Foreign Professionals in Banking, Securities & Asset Management
To diversify revenue, strengthen overseas operations, and manage cross‑border transactions, Japanese financial institutions increasingly hire senior foreign bankers and specialists. Typical candidates hold advanced degrees in finance, economics, law, or MBAs from top global universities.
Immigration Categories of Most Employers
- Category 1: Listed companies in Japan.
- Category 2: Large unlisted firms (e.g., foreign securities houses, foreign bank branches). Boutique investment firms often still meet Category 2 because taxable salaries exceed JPY 10 million.
These categories enjoy expedited screening and lighter documentation requirements.
Visa Options at a Glance
| Status of Residence | Key Requirements | Representative Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Engineer / Specialist in Humanities / International Services | Relevant degree or 10 yrs experience | Standard 5‑year maximum stay; no special perks |
| Highly Skilled Professional (i)(b) | ≥70 points (income, university ranking, degree, etc.) | 5‑year visa; PR eligible after 3 yrs; can sponsor domestic worker |
| J‑SKIP (Special HSP) | Master’s degree or 10 yrs exp and income ≥ JPY 20 M (professionals) —or— 5 yrs exec exp & income ≥ JPY 40 M (managers) |
5‑year visa; PR eligible after 1 yr; up to 2 domestic workers; airport fast lanes; relaxed spousal work |
Why HSP & J‑SKIP Fit Finance
Finance professionals often surpass visa thresholds thanks to high compensation and elite degrees. Consider offering J‑SKIP to executive hires earning JPY 20–40 million; the perks can be decisive in a competitive talent market.
Career Path & Visa Synergy
Senior Bankers & Directors
For managing directors or regional heads, the Business Manager or HSP (i)(c) status may be appropriate. Note that hotel addresses cannot be registered as official residences—special procedures with Immigration are required.
About the Author
Masakazu Murai
Former investment banker at Mitsubishi UFJ Morgan Stanley Securities (a joint venture of MUFG and Morgan Stanley), advising on capital strategy and M&A. Served over 500 clients, including entrepreneurs and executives of listed companies.
While employed, he served as a union executive committee member promoting diversity in the workplace and improving labor conditions. His expertise includes immigration consulting and corporate finance advisory for foreign professionals.
Licensed Administrative Scrivener (Tokyo Branch Executive, Minato Ward)
Certified Financial Planner (CFP)
Chartered Member of the Securities Analysts Association of Japan