work
Medical Services
For foreign medical professionals (physicians, dentists, nurses, etc.) practicing in Japan.
Duration & Rights
Period of Stay:
1, 3 or 5 years (renewable)
Work Rights:
Practice the licensed medical profession at the designated institution
Processing Time:
2-4 months (often longer due to licensing process)
Quick Stats
Difficulty
4/5
Popularity
1/5
Requirements
- Possess a Japanese medical license or qualification (e.g., passing the national exams in Japanese)
- Employment offer from a hospital, clinic, or pharmacy in Japan
- Relevant medical degree and professional experience
Key Documents
- Copy of Japanese medical license or proof of exam passage
- Medical degree/diploma
- Employment contract with medical institution
FAQs
Is it possible to work as a doctor in Japan as a foreigner?
Only if you pass the Japanese medical licensing exams (in Japanese). Very few foreigners do this due to the language and technical difficulty.
What about nurses or pharmacists?
Similar principle – you must obtain the Japanese national qualification in that field. Some economic partnership programs exist to help foreign nurses/caregivers train and work in Japan, after which they get this visa.
Upgrade Paths
- Highly Skilled Professional (if applicable)
- Permanent Resident