[darklajid]

I just got a (admittedly: limited to 2 years for now, bound to the corporate sponsor) working visa for Singapore. Looking at your description:

- I don't have a recognized degree (I do, but .. it's complicated)

- I never had, nor will for the foreseeable future, reach 100k USD (DE doesn't pay like that, neither will SG in the future based on sources like Glassdoor etc.)

- I'm over 30

I guess what I'm trying to say is: For me the list you provided is merely a curiosity and doesn't feel like I would have a good way to migrate to Japan if I'd like to. It was trivial for Singapore. "Incredibly unfortunate circumstances" seem to imply that you believe that nearly anyone can check all the boxes. Which for the salary requirement alone seems rather insane from my European point of view.

That said: I have no clue about immigration requirements for Germany, so I cannot compare Japan to my home country. DE might be worse.

[jaredklewis]

Indeed, the kind of visa discussed is actually one of the more difficult ones to get. Most people come in on category based visas which have more restrictions, but more lax requirements. Usually a university degree (for young folks) or a bunch of industry experience (for folks like yourself) is enough. No big salary or young age required.