Highly Skilled Professional 1c（高度専門職1号ハ）to Permanent Residency

2025年4月8日

約 7 分

Navigating the Highly Skilled Professional Visa 1c in Japan

At Continental Immigration, we frequently advise clients seeking to obtain a Highly Skilled Professional (HSP) Visa 1c and permanent residency in Japan in the shortest possible timeframe.

Is the HSP Visa 1c Limited to Executives of Large Corporations?

Contrary to common belief, the Highly Skilled Professional Visa 1c is not exclusively for executives of large enterprises. This visa category covers any foreign national in a business management or auditing role, including those in smaller firms and startups, provided they are involved in core managerial decisions, business execution, or oversight.

Why the Immigration Bureau Scrutinizes Startups

Despite the broad eligibility criteria, applicants from startups or newly established businesses face stricter reviews. Since the HSP Visa 1c is typically issued with a five-year validity, the Immigration Bureau places great emphasis on business continuity, financial health, and realistic growth prospects, especially for companies in their first 3–4 years. This cautious approach is due to the historically high failure rate of small enterprises within their early years.

High HSP Scores Alone Are Not Enough

Even if you meet the 70 or 80-point threshold required under the HSP system through credentials such as an MBA from a top-tier university or JLPT N1 certification, these points alone do not guarantee approval. Immigration examiners will carefully assess whether your business has sufficient capital, staff, and market viability to support the issuance of a long-term management visa.

Does Overseas Business Experience Help?

Yes—experience in running a business overseas or the presence of an affiliated group company abroad that provides consistent revenue can significantly strengthen your application. The Immigration Bureau views international operations as a positive sign of business credibility and sustainability.

HSP Visa 1c and Pathway to Permanent Residency

Once granted an HSP Visa 1c and achieving a score of 80 points or more, you may become eligible for permanent residency in as little as one year. At Continental, we support applicants in both securing the HSP 1c and transitioning to Permanent Residency status in Japan.

Legal and Strategic Support with Continental

As a firm led by experienced immigration specialists and professionals with a background in investment banking and corporate advisory, Continental offers personalized support tailored to business owners and executives. We provide expert services to help applicants prepare compliant documentation, optimize point calculations, and demonstrate business viability.

For entrepreneurs and executives aiming to establish or expand business operations in Japan under the HSP Visa 1c, professional guidance is key to navigating the complex application and eligibility standards. Contact us for a strategic consultation tailored to your business and immigration goals.

Professional

Masakazu Murai
Gyoseishoshi Immigration Lawyer, Financial Advisor
Former investment banker with 18 years at Mitsubishi UFJ Morgan Stanley, advising over 500 executives and startups. Expert in Japanese visa strategy, business setup, and permanent residency pathways.