Scoring HSP Points for Medical Doctor (M.D.) and Juris Doctor (J.D.) Degrees in Japan’s Highly Skilled Professional System
Scoring HSP Points for Medical Doctor (M.D.) and Juris Doctor (J.D.) Degrees in Japan’s Highly Skilled Professional System
For foreign professionals seeking permanent residency through Japan’s Highly Skilled Professional (HSP) visa system, understanding how your academic credentials convert into immigration points is key. Specifically, professionals holding a Medical Doctor (M.D.) or Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree often ask how these qualifications are scored within the HSP framework. This article explains how these degrees are evaluated and how to enhance your overall score for a successful application.
Overview of Degree-Based Points in the HSP System
Under the HSP 1b (ロ) category, academic qualifications significantly impact your points. The Immigration Services Agency of Japan awards points based on the highest academic degree held:
- Ph.D. – 30 points
- MBA – 25 points
- Master’s Degree – 20 points
- Bachelor’s Degree – 10 points
Since 70 points is the minimum requirement for HSP visa eligibility, your degree level can significantly influence your chances of qualifying for fast-track permanent residency.
How Are M.D. and J.D. Degrees Treated?
Despite having “Doctor” in their titles, both the Medical Doctor (M.D.) and Juris Doctor (J.D.) are not considered equivalent to a Ph.D. in Japan’s HSP system. The Japanese Immigration Bureau awards 20 points to these degrees—equivalent to a Master’s degree—because they typically do not require the submission of a doctoral dissertation.
Clarification from the Immigration Bureau
Both M.D. and J.D. degrees are recognized as professional degrees. While they hold considerable authority in their respective fields of medicine and law, they are treated differently from research doctorates for immigration scoring purposes.
Add Research Achievements for Bonus Points
If you are an M.D. or J.D. involved in academic research, you can claim up to 20 additional points for your scholarly output. To qualify:
- You must have published at least three academic papers as the lead author
- The papers must appear in a reputable database such as Scopus or Web of Science
These bonus points can be particularly valuable if your educational qualifications alone do not meet the 70-point threshold. For medical doctors and legal scholars who contribute to research, this is a smart way to strengthen your profile.
Why HSP Points Matter for Permanent Residency
The HSP system offers one of the fastest routes to permanent residency in Japan. Here’s how the timeline looks based on your score:
- 70 points: Eligible for PR in 3 years
- 80 points or more: Eligible for PR in just 1 year (Learn more)
Beyond faster PR eligibility, the HSP status also allows:
- Spouses to work freely
- Parents to join under certain conditions
- Hiring of domestic workers for high-income applicants
These privileges make HSP status ideal for internationally educated professionals planning a long-term future in Japan.
Maximize Your Points with Continental’s Expert Services
Accurate point calculation is essential—especially if your degree type is uncommon in Japan or you’re unsure about bonus eligibility. At Continental Immigration Consulting, we provide:
- HSP Visa Full Application Support – From documentation to submission: ¥130,000 (excl. tax)
- Permanent Residency Support via HSP – Strategic planning and filing: ¥170,000 (excl. tax)
- Point Diagnosis Consultation – In-depth one-on-one session: ¥10,000 (excl. tax)
Whether you’re a foreign-trained physician, lawyer, or researcher, our team can ensure your profile is evaluated correctly—and competitively.
See also: How self-employed professionals can apply for PR
Professional
Masakazu Murai
Gyoseishoshi Immigration Lawyer / Financial Advisor
18 years’ experience in Investment Banking at Mitsubishi UFJ Morgan Stanley
CMA (Certified Member Analyst, Japan)
CFP (Certified Financial Planner)
MBA in Entrepreneurship (Hosei Business School)
