Japan Highly Skilled Professional Visa

Overview

The Japanese "Highly Skilled Professional (HSP) Visa" operates on a points-based system, with a key focus on evaluating the applicant's industry relevance. Applicants scoring 70 points or more can obtain a 5-year visa. Notably, those with 70+ points may qualify for permanent residency (PR) in as few as 3 years, while those with 80+ points can potentially apply for PR in just 1 year. The main applicant must establish a company in Japan (with a minimum registered capital of 30 million JPY). Upon successful visa approval, the spouse and minor children can obtain a "Dependent Visa."

Core Application Requirements

For the Main Applicant:

1. Be at least 18 years old (applicants over 20 have higher practical approval rates); have no criminal record in Japan within the past 5 years.
2. Achieve a points score of 70 or higher(based on education, work experience, annual income, etc.).
3. Have an annual income of 3 million JPY or more.
4. Possess 3 or more years of management experience, orhold a master's degree or higher in a relevant field.
5. The applicant or a full-time employee must meet Japanese language proficiency requirements.

For the Company:

1. Registered capital of 30 million JPY or more(fully paid).
2. A legally leased office space for business purposes (required for company registration).
3. A Japanese citizen or permanent resident is required as a co-founder.
4. Employ at least 1 qualified full-time staff member(e.g., Japanese citizen, permanent resident)
5. Submit a business plan confirmed by a certified Small and Medium Enterprise(SME) Management Consultant.

Application Process:

1. Eligibility assessment and points calculation.
2. Determine capital investment amount and business scope.
3. Document preparation and notarization.
4. Open a corporate bank account overseas and transfer the registered capital.
5. Complete company registration, tax registration, and office leasing.
6. Draft the business plan and submit the application.
7. Receive the "Certificate of Eligibility.
8. Apply for the visa at the Japanese Embassy/Consulate in China.
9. Enter Japanto obtain Residence Card, and commence business operations.

Visa Advantages

1. Country Advantages: Passport grants visa-free access to 190+ countries/regions; located within a 3-hour flight radius from major Chinese cities; Culturally similar environment for easier integration.
2. Processing Advantages: Fast processing in 4-8 months; Obtain a 5-year visa directly; Points are cumulative (education, language, experience); One application covers the whole family for relocation; Priority approval for applicants with relevant industry backgrounds.
3. BenefitsAdvantages: Comprehensive childbirth and childcare benefits; Free compulsory education; National health insurance with coverage up to 90%; Spouse is permitted to work freely; Eligible to bring parents or a domestic helper under certain conditions.

Important Notes

Following the implementation of new regulations in 2025, the Immigration Services Agency of Japan will significantly increase scrutiny of application materials, with a particular focus on genuineness of business operations, Japanese language proficiency proofs, and industry relevance.