Quick Answer
The Highly Skilled Professional visa uses a points-based system. Score 70+ points and you can apply for permanent residence in 3 years; score 80+ and you can apply in just 1 year. Points come from academic background, work experience, salary, age, and bonus factors.
Three Categories of Highly Skilled Professionals
| Category | Description | Example Occupations |
|---|---|---|
| HSP-1(a) Advanced Academic Research | Research at universities/institutes | University professor, researcher |
| HSP-1(b) Advanced Specialized/Technical | Specialized work in natural sciences/humanities | Engineer, IT specialist, consultant |
| HSP-1(c) Advanced Business Management | Business management activities | CEO, director, fund manager |
Points Calculation Table
| Category | Criteria | Points |
|---|---|---|
| Academic Background | Doctorate | 30 |
| Master's degree | 20 | |
| Bachelor's degree | 10 | |
| Multiple degrees (bonus) | +5 | |
| Work Experience | 10+ years | 20 |
| 7-9 years | 15 | |
| 5-6 years | 10 | |
| Annual Salary | ¥10M+ | 40 |
| ¥8M-¥10M | 30 | |
| ¥6M-¥8M | 20 | |
| ¥4M-¥6M | 10 | |
| Age | Under 30 | 15 |
| 30-34 | 10 | |
| 35-39 | 5 | |
| Bonus Points | JLPT N1 or BJT 480+ | 15 |
| JLPT N2 | 10 | |
| Graduated from Japanese university | 10 | |
| Research achievements / patents | 15-25 |
Benefits of the Highly Skilled Professional Visa
- Fast-track to permanent residence: 80+ points = 1 year; 70+ points = 3 years
- 5-year visa period from the start
- Spouse can work without restriction (not limited to 28 hrs/week)
- Parent sponsorship: Bring parents to Japan (with conditions: pregnant spouse/child under 7, income ¥8M+)
- Domestic helper: Sponsor a foreign domestic helper (income ¥10M+)
- Combined activities: Engage in multiple activities that would normally require separate visas
ℹ️ Pro Tip: You May Already Qualify
Many professionals on an Engineer/Specialist visa actually qualify for HSP status without realizing it. Use our Visa Checker Tool to estimate your points. Even if you don't switch visa categories, demonstrating 70/80+ points accelerates your permanent residence application.
⚠️ Legal Notice
This is not legal advice. Please consult a licensed immigration consultant (行政書士 / gyoseishoshi) for advice specific to your situation.
