Highly Skilled Professional (i)
Highly qualified academics, specialists or managers scoring 70+ on the points test for accelerated benefits.
The Highly Skilled Professional (i) is a Japanese work & skilled visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~¥4,000 on grant; Certificate of Eligibility is free) and processing time (~1-3 months for the Certificate of Eligibility), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Highly Skilled Professional (i) is for
Highly qualified academics, specialists or managers scoring 70+ on the points test for accelerated benefits.
Fast-track permanent residence after 3 years (1 year if scoring 80+ points).
Highly Skilled Professional (i) - eligibility criteria
- Score 70+ on the points table (education, income, age, experience)
- Fall under academic research, specialised/technical, or business management activity
- Hold a job offer or business in Japan
- Meet the minimum annual income threshold
- Provide evidence for each point category claimed
Highly Skilled Professional (i) cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Highly Skilled Professional (i) (Japan) is ~¥4,000 on grant; Certificate of Eligibility is free, with an indicative processing time of ~1-3 months for the Certificate of Eligibility. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at Immigration Services Agency of Japan.
| Type | Points-based |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Certificate of Eligibility filed in Japan; visa issued at a consulate abroad |
| Length of stay | 5 years (renewable) |
| Work rights | Broad work rights across the qualifying activity, plus some side activities |
| Study rights | Study allowed |
| Government fee | ~¥4,000 on grant; Certificate of Eligibility is free |
| Processing time | ~1-3 months for the Certificate of Eligibility |
| Route to PR | Fast-track permanent residence after 3 years (1 year if scoring 80+ points). |
Pathway & next steps
Fast-track permanent residence after 3 years (1 year if scoring 80+ points).
Many applicants also compare HSP (ii) · Highly Skilled Professional (ii), Engineer / Humanities · Engineer / Specialist in Humanities / International Services, Permanent Resident · Permanent Resident (Eijuken). Run a free VisaChief check to see which Japanese route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Highly Skilled Professional (i) pitfalls we fix
Highly Skilled Professional (i) - frequently asked questions
How much does the Highly Skilled Professional (i) cost?
The Highly Skilled Professional (i) government fee is ~¥4,000 on grant; Certificate of Eligibility is free. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at Immigration Services Agency of Japan before applying.
How long does the Highly Skilled Professional (i) take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~1-3 months for the Certificate of Eligibility. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Highly Skilled Professional (i) lead to permanent residence?
Fast-track permanent residence after 3 years (1 year if scoring 80+ points).
Can I work on the Highly Skilled Professional (i)?
Work rights: Broad work rights across the qualifying activity, plus some side activities.
Who can apply for the Highly Skilled Professional (i)?
Highly qualified academics, specialists or managers scoring 70+ on the points test for accelerated benefits.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Japan government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- Immigration Services Agency of Japan - official Japan immigration authority