Highly Skilled Professional Visa in Japan
Requirements, Points System & Immigration Benefits
A points-based residence status for eligible foreign professionals working in Japan.
Who Is Eligible?
Highly Skilled Professional (HSP) is a residence status for foreign nationals engaged in qualifying professional activities in Japan.
HSP (i) has three categories:
| Category | Main activities |
|---|---|
| HSP (i)(a) | Advanced academic research, research guidance and education |
| HSP (i)(b) | Advanced specialized or technical work |
| HSP (i)(c) | Advanced business management |
The appropriate category depends on your activities in Japan.
How Does the Points System Work?
Applicants for HSP (i) generally need at least 70 points.
Points are assessed based on educational qualifications, professional experience, annual remuneration, age (where applicable), research achievements and other qualifying criteria.
The calculation rules differ by category.
Having 70 points does not automatically guarantee approval. Your activities and other immigration requirements must also be satisfied.
Seven Main Benefits
Eligible HSP (i) holders may receive the following immigration benefits:
Each benefit is subject to its applicable conditions.
What Is HSP (ii)?
HSP (ii) is a separate residence status available to eligible applicants who have engaged in HSP (i) activities for at least three years and meet the applicable requirements.
It provides an indefinite period of stay and permits a broader range of work-related activities.
Changing from Another Work Visa
If you currently hold a work-related residence status, such as Engineer / Specialist in Humanities / International Services, you may be eligible to apply for a change to HSP (i).
Your points, employment, professional activities and other requirements must be reviewed.
Explore Our HSP Guides
More detailed guides will be available here.
Planning Your HSP Application?
We assist foreign professionals with HSP eligibility reviews, points calculations, supporting documents, application preparation and immigration filing procedures.
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