[2025 Update] Japan’s Highly Skilled Professional (HSP) Points System and J-Startup Bonus Explained
Who Is the HSP Points System For?
The Highly Skilled Professional (HSP) Points System is not just another visa category—it is a preferential system designed to help foreign nationals who plan to live and work long-term in Japan and eventually obtain permanent residency.
While ordinary permanent residency (PR) requires at least 10 years of continuous residence, the HSP framework allows qualified applicants to apply for PR in as little as 1 year or 3 years.
The main groups who benefit are:
- Those on a “General Work Visa” (e.g., Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services)
Foreigners currently holding standard work visas can accumulate points based on income, education, Japanese language proficiency, etc. Reaching 70 or 80 points opens the path to early PR. - Those granted an HSP visa from the start
Applicants who initially receive “Highly Skilled Professional” status enjoy immediate advantages such as a 5-year residence period, spousal work authorization, and the ability to bring parents.
However, when applying for PR, they must still prove their points score and how long it has been maintained. - Those maintaining HSP status over time
At renewal or PR application, points are recalculated. This means applicants must avoid falling below the threshold due to job changes, income fluctuations, or other factors.
How the Points Table Works
The legal foundation of the HSP system is the official Points Calculation Table (Ministerial Ordinance) published by the Ministry of Justice (MOJ).
Points are awarded for education, work experience, annual income, age, and Japanese language ability, with additional bonus points for specific categories.
Of particular importance is Bonus Category ④: Innovation Promotion Measures (as designated by MOJ notification).
If your employer falls under this category, you receive an extra +10 points (or +20 if it is an SME).
This is where the J-Startup bonus comes into play.
How the J-Startup Bonus Works
What It Is
J-Startup is a program run by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) to officially select and support promising startups driving Japan’s growth.
Foreigners employed by J-Startup companies are considered part of the Innovation Promotion Measures, qualifying them for the HSP bonus (+10 points / +20 points if SME).
Evidence
- Innovation Promotion Measures List (MOJ notification)
- Official J-Startup Website (METI)
- 5th J-Startup Selection Announcement (March 13, 2025)
Practical Tips
To claim this bonus, applicants must prove that their employer is a designated J-Startup company. Common documents include:
- Official METI press release or PDF list of selected companies
- Employer-issued certificate of employment (original)
- SME certification documents (if applicable)
Providing these ensures that immigration officers clearly recognize the bonus eligibility.
Other Common Bonus Categories
In addition to J-Startup, many foreigners can benefit from other bonus criteria:
- Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT)
N1 = +15 points, N2 = +10 points
→ JLPT List (MOJ PDF) - Graduates of “Designated Universities”
Includes top global universities, Super Global Universities (SGU), and Innovative Asia institutions = +10 points
→ Designated University List (Jan 2025, MOJ PDF)
Combining these makes it much easier to reach the 70- or 80-point threshold.
Fast-Track to Permanent Residency
The greatest advantage of the HSP Points System is its shortened residency requirement for PR:
- 80+ points maintained for at least 1 year → Eligible for PR in 1 year
- 70+ points maintained for at least 3 years → Eligible for PR in 3 years
This framework is clearly stated in the PR Guidelines (Revised Nov. 18, 2024, MOJ PDF).
Compared to the standard 10-year route, this system is extremely advantageous for highly skilled professionals with strong careers.
Key Checks Before Applying
To successfully apply under the HSP framework, you should confirm:
- Always download the latest Points Table, Designated University List, and Innovation Promotion Measures PDF.
- If using J-Startup bonus, attach the official METI release or company list.
- Gather all financial and social insurance evidence (tax certificates, payment records, enrollment documents).
- For PR fast-track, ensure that the required period (70 pts = 3 years, 80 pts = 1 year) is fully satisfied.
Osaka Immigration Bureau Trends
When applying under the HSP Points System, regional differences in processing should be noted. The Osaka Immigration Bureau shows the following tendencies:
Careful Review of Documents
Osaka examiners scrutinize supporting documents (tax certificates, employment certificates, JLPT results). Both taxation and payment certificates should be provided.
J-Startup Bonus Handling
Evidence is critical. Osaka officers prefer official METI documents over company self-statements. Submitting press releases or government PDFs helps speed up review.
Verification of Points Maintenance
For PR fast-track (70 pts/3 years or 80 pts/1 year), officers strictly check when the applicant first achieved the required points. Supplementary evidence such as employment certificates and payslips is useful.
Processing Times
Osaka generally processes faster than Tokyo.
Tokyo: Often 17–24 months for PR decisions
Osaka: Typically 8–12 months
While there is no official rule prioritizing HSP cases, well-prepared applications under the Points System are often processed more smoothly.
Conclusion
The HSP Points System is the most effective path to shorten the PR timeline for:
- Standard work visa holders aiming for PR
- Those already under HSP status seeking renewal or PR
The J-Startup bonus and other categories provide additional leverage to reach the required points.
⚠️ However, since the system and lists are updated regularly, applicants must always check the latest MOJ/ISA/METI evidence and attach official documents before submitting.
Ishinagi Administrative Scrivener Office
“I want to obtain permanent residency quickly and securely.” “I’m worried about preparing all the documents.”
If this sounds like you, please feel free to contact our office in Osaka (Yodogawa-ku). We support clients from all over Japan, providing the most effective assistance based on our extensive experience with immigration procedures.
If you want to secure your permanent residency smoothly and confidently, contact our office today.
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