Mode Four of GATS may cover a wide range of persons, from high-level engineers to unskilled workers. In the FTA, Japan mainly commits with respect to highly qualified professionals. Those commitments go substantially beyond Japan’s commitments under the GATS. Japan also has a number of other economic partnership treaties granting access to foreign professionals of various categories.

Strong interest for companies posting their managers or specialists. Contractual Service Suppliers and independent professionals are allowed to supply services and engage in business activities. Furthermore, professionals specialised in natural sciences (e.g. engineers), humanities or academia can benefit from mobility commitments.

The EPA’s schedule of Japan lists 38 sectors where specific commitments apply. There are no quotas for those professionals entering Japan. Professionals of the EU covered by Annex 8-B (Annex III) depend on EU-based employers, whereas professionals of the EU covered by Annex 8-B (Annex IV) do not depend on EU-based employers.

To read the factsheet, please click here.

The complete text of the EPA, and Annexes can be found on the following website of the European Commission: http://trade.ec.europa.eu/doclib/press/index.cfm?id=1684.