Three Common Reasons HSP-Based PR Applications Are Denied in Japan

2025年9月10日

約 6 分

Three Common Reasons HSP-Based PR Applications Are Denied in Japan

By Masakazu Murai, Continental Immigration Administrative Scrivener Corporation

1. Misunderstanding the HSP Point System

The Highly Skilled Professional (HSP) point calculation is intricate and often misunderstood. Issues arise with
multiple degree recognition, MBA accreditation, annual income calculations, methods of verifying continuous employment,
whether a candidate qualifies under Japan’s “Innovation Advancement” scheme, the rules for academic publications,
or bonus points for investment-related work. Many applicants fail not because of weak profiles, but because they
misapply or misprove the definitions. At times, only the spouse or children are denied, leading to confusion and

hardship.

2. Noncompliance with Pension, Tax, and Insurance Obligations

Permanent residency review covers statutory compliance: national pension, health insurance, and local taxes.
Deficiencies—even minor—can result in denial. Importantly, the review extends not only to the applicant but also
to the spouse, even if the spouse is Japanese. Critical questions include: were transition procedures after changing
jobs properly completed? Are “tax-saving measures” recognized by law? Is there clarity on bilateral social security
agreements? Are company obligations fully met? Even traffic violations can be factored into the holistic evaluation.

3. Extended Absence from Japan

Many HSP professionals travel frequently overseas. How many days must one remain in Japan? The statute is silent,
but in practice Immigration applies benchmarks. Extended absences—such as more than 100 days in a year, or a
single absence exceeding two months—often raise red flags. Applicants must understand these practical thresholds
even if they are not codified in law.

Practice Insight: At Continental, we routinely advise on such critical issues. Many criteria are not
set out in black-letter law or formal guidelines, and Immigration’s practice evolves over time. Our lawyers provide
individualized consultation and end-to-end support, from strategic advice to complete application handling.

Conclusion

Japan’s HSP 80-point system offers a fast track to permanent residency, but success depends not just on points,
but also on precise documentation, strict compliance, and practical awareness of Immigration’s evolving practice.
Missteps—even unintentional—can lead to denials. Proper preparation and experienced guidance are indispensable.

Professional Consultant

Masakazu Murai
Immigration Consultant & Financial Advisor with 18 years of investment banking experience at Mitsubishi UFJ Morgan Stanley, advising over 500 entrepreneurs and executives.