Japan’s Highly Skilled Professional points system can shorten the period of residence required before applying for permanent residence when the prescribed points are met. However, holding Highly Skilled Professional (Business Management) status and having enough points does not by itself guarantee permanent residence.
Issue 1. Have the required points been maintained?
Points based on income and other factors must generally be maintained for the prescribed period. For an 80-point route, the relevant requirements must be met for at least the preceding year; for a 70-point route, generally for at least the preceding three years.
For business owners, executive compensation may fall when company performance changes. Payment status for income tax, resident tax and social-insurance premiums is also important.
Issue 2. Continuous residence in Japan
Permanent-residence examination also considers whether the applicant has actually maintained continuous residence in Japan. Frequent departures or a single long absence may lead to closer examination of continuity of residence.
Items to check before applying
- Whether 70 or 80 points have continuously been met from the required reference date
- Whether income satisfies the applicable requirements
- Whether taxes, pension and health-insurance premiums have been paid on time
- Whether there have been long or frequent absences from Japan
- Whether the applicant, spouse and household members have complied with laws and public obligations
- Whether the managed company is operating continuously without tax or social-insurance arrears
Highly Skilled Professional points are one gateway to permanent residence. The application should be reviewed comprehensively, including actual residence, fulfillment of public obligations and the condition of the managed company.