Calculate your Highly Skilled Professional 1a (HSP1a) Point system
How to Calculate Points for the Highly Skilled Professional 1a (HSP1a) Visa in Japan
Wondering how many points you qualify for under Japan’s Highly Skilled Professional 1a (イ) Points System? The HSP1a visa targets researchers, scientists, and professors who significantly contribute to Japan’s educational and research sectors. This comprehensive guide explains the essential factors and points requirements to help you qualify for the HSP1a visa.
Qualifying applicants may enjoy numerous preferential treatments, including eligibility for permanent residence in as little as one year.
Overview of the Highly Skilled Professional 1a (イ) Visa
The HSP1a visa enables qualified researchers, educators, and specialists to undertake research, education, or specialized activities at Japanese universities, research institutions, and corporations. Eligibility requires scoring a minimum of 70 points in the Highly Skilled Professional Points System, which evaluates:
- Educational Background (degree & university)
- Professional Experience
- Expected Annual Income
- Research Achievements
- Japanese Language Proficiency
Key Criteria for Calculating HSP1a Points
1. Educational Background and Institution Prestige
- Points vary based on the highest obtained degree. Extra points are awarded for degrees from Japanese institutions or globally ranked universities (QS, THE Rankings).
2. Professional Experience
- Relevant professional experience in research or educational roles contributes to points. Note: Part-time jobs or student employment do not qualify.
3. Expected Annual Income
- Points depend on projected annual income. Although there is no strict minimum for HSP1a, higher salaries can significantly increase points.
4. Age of Applicant
- Younger applicants typically score higher points in the HSP system.
5. Japanese Language Proficiency
- Passing the JLPT N1 or achieving 480+ on the BJT Business Japanese Test earns points. N2 is acceptable if combined with graduation from a Japanese university.
6. Research Achievements and Publications
- Significant research achievements such as patents and publications add substantial points. Verification is conducted via Elsevier’s SciVerse Scopus database.
7. Additional Qualifications
- Relevant international professional qualifications may grant extra points.
Continental’s HSP Visa Application Support
Calculating points and applying for the Highly Skilled Professional visa can be challenging. Continental Immigration offers expert assistance, including document preparation, points calculation, and application management:
- Visa Change to HSP1a Status: 130,000 JPY (Free initial consultation)
- Permanent Residency Application via HSP: 170,000 JPY (Free initial consultation)
- One-time Consultation: 10,000 JPY per session (60 minutes)
Note: Prices exclude tax.
For personalized guidance, contact Continental Immigration today to maximize your eligibility and ensure your application’s success.
Professional Consultant
Masakazu Murai
Immigration Consultant & Financial Advisor with 18 years of experience at Mitsubishi UFJ Morgan Stanley, advising over 500 executives and entrepreneurs.
Actively promoting workplace diversity, he specializes in residence status, visa consulting, and financial advisory for foreigners.
- Gyoseishoshi Immigration Lawyer
- CMA (Japanese financial analyst license)
- CFP (Certified Financial Planner)
- MBA in Entrepreneurship (Hosei Business School)
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