Introduction

Many foreign nationals holding the Highly Skilled Professional visa feel concerned about their residency status when their employer suddenly goes bankrupt. According to the Immigration Control Act of Japan, there are specific measures and grace periods for those who lose their jobs due to unavoidable circumstances such as bankruptcy. By following the proper procedures, it is possible to avoid visa denial. This article explains the characteristics of the Highly Skilled Professional visa, concrete steps after employer bankruptcy, important points during renewal applications, and tips for avoiding refusal, based on official government data and expert information.

What is a Highly Skilled Professional Visa?

The Highly Skilled Professional visa is granted to foreign nationals with advanced knowledge and skills that contribute to Japan’s economy. It uses a points-based system requiring applicants to score at least 70 points and meet activity and good conduct requirements at both application and renewal stages. Typically granted for five years, renewal applications must be submitted up to three months before expiration along with updated documents to verify point scores and activities.

Steps to Take When Employer Goes Bankrupt

If your employer goes bankrupt and you lose your job, you must submit a “Notification of Contracting Organization” to the Immigration Bureau within 14 days of leaving your former employer. This notification reports that your employment activities have temporarily ceased due to unavoidable reasons.

After this, promptly find a new job that meets the Highly Skilled Professional visa criteria, sign a new employment contract, and apply for a change of status or renewal to continue your activities legally. Staying unemployed for more than three months may lead to visa cancellation.

Tips to Avoid Renewal Denial

Renewal applications are strictly reviewed based on the points system. To avoid denial, ensure you submit:

• Proof that your new employer and job meet the visa requirements
• Documentation of your recent activities and tax payments
• Records of your job search efforts, such as interview logs and offer letters
• Your application early enough (about three months prior to expiry) to manage any additional document requests efficiently

Consulting with immigration specialists such as administrative scriveners can help avoid mistakes.

Example Case

An IT engineer lost his job due to company bankruptcy, promptly notified the Immigration Bureau, actively job-hunted, and secured a new IT position within two and a half months. With proper submission of evidence on new employment, he successfully renewed his visa, demonstrating the effectiveness of timely procedures and documentation.

Conclusion

Employment loss due to bankruptcy does not immediately invalidate the Highly Skilled Professional visa. However, timely notification, quick job change, and meeting visa criteria with the new employer are essential. Submit renewal applications with sufficient preparation to avoid refusal. Seeking professional advice early is highly recommended. Proper adherence to these procedures ensures continued stable residence and activity in Japan on the Highly Skilled Professional visa.