Japan’s Highly Skilled Professional Visa

A five-year fast-track visa for highly skilled professionals, with no renewal requirements and the option to apply for permanent residency after just one year

Processing Time

5-8 months

Status Type:

Temporary Residents

Investment Requirement:

Minimum investment of ¥5,000,000

Residency Requirement:

No mandatory residency requirement, though it is recommended to live in Japan for at least six months per year

Language Requirement:

None

Project Overview

Japan’s Highly Skilled Professional (HSP) visa is a points-based immigration visa, designed to attract and retain foreign talent with advanced expertise. Its goal is to help these professionals build long-term careers in Japan, driving economic growth, fostering innovation, and supporting societal development.

The initial visa is granted for five years and can be renewed in five-year increments if desired. Applicants with a score of 70 points may apply for permanent residency after three years; those with 80 points or more may qualify in just one year. Permanent residency applications are subject to additional requirements, including good conduct and tax compliance.

Project Advantages

No medical examination or proof of funds required
Language skills and educational background are considered as bonus points, but are not mandatory
Simple documentation and a fast approval process
Applicants receive a 5-year visa directly, eliminating renewal concerns
Accelerated permanent residency
- Applicants scoring 70–79 points under the HSP system may apply for permanent residency after three years of continuous residence in Japan, either as an HSP visa holder or by maintaining this score for three years on another qualifying work visa
- Those with 80 points or more are eligible for an accelerated path, allowing them to apply after just one year under similar conditions
Employment flexibility for families
- Spouses of HSP visa holders qualify for a special residence status, known as Specific Activity 33 (Spouse of Highly Skilled Foreign Professional)
  - This status allows spouses to work full-time in any role, including professional positions, without meeting the usual educational or work experience requirements required for standard Japanese work visas

Eligibility Requirements

Must possess advanced specialized skills as defined by Japan’s standards, falling under one of the following categories:
- A: Advanced Academic Research Activities
- B: Highly Specialized/Technical Activities
- C: Advanced Business Management/Supervisory Activities
Applicant must score 70 points or more
Must obtain a Certificate of Eligibility
Documents related to the sponsoring company
A detailed employment contract or appointment letter outlining job description, responsibilities, employment duration, and salary

Application Process

Secure a job offer from a Japanese company or institution willing to act as a sponsor
Sponsor will apply for your Certificate of Eligibility at their local Immigration Bureau in Japan
- If applicant is applying inside Japan, they can apply for the Certificate of Eligibility themselves, but still need to show proof of job offer
Once the application is approved and the Certificate of Eligibility is issued, the foreign national applies for the HSP visa
Once the visa is granted, the individual can enter Japan