Qualifying for the Highly Skilled Foreign Professional Visa Schedule (1) in Japan

 *The documents have to be submitted within three months of their date of issue 

A. 1 application for certificate for eligibility of resident status

This is available at local immigration bureaus, or from the Ministry of Justice’s website. (Japanese only)

B. 1 picture (3x4 cm)

The picture must be a clear photo of the applicants face with a white background. Like standard passport photos there cannot be any obstructions and the face must facing forward. Finally the photo must be taken within 3 months of the application. 

The applicant’s name should be written on the back before being pasted on the form.

C. Self-addressed stamped envelope

Write the address clearly on the envelope and use a 392 yen simplified registered mail stamp (within Japan only). 

D. Additional documentation will vary based on your profession and employment

 This table on the Immigration Bureau of Japan’s website lists required document next to the relevant profession. For the purposes of the HSFP(1) visa sections “professor,” “artist,” “religious activities,” “journalist,”  and all the sections between “investor/business manager,” and “engineer” apply.

E. A section of the point calculation table (reference) for HSPF (1i)(1ii), or (1iii) pertaining to the type of activities that will be engaged in in Japan. 

The entire reference is available in the downloadable excel sheet above or on the immigration bureau’s website (Japanese only).

F. Documentary Evidence of Points

Supporting documents are required to qualify for the points (e.g. school records, proof of employment, proof of resident status, proof of annual income, etc.). However, it is also not necessary to submit documents explaining every single applicable item as long as the documents presented support a point total of 70. (Please note the translated excerpt below is not an official translation)

With both Certificate of Eligibility and visa in hand, the immigration and customs process upon arriving in Japan should be smooth. After entering the country a residence card will be issued at the airport or be sent by mail most likely to the person’s place of work.

The process is pretty straight forward for those who qualify, just as long as all the documentations in in order. And it is common for your employer to handle most of the administrative process for the visa. 

Good luck with your visa application!