Introduction

For foreign nationals wishing to obtain permanent residency (Permanent Residence Permit) in Japan, the “Highly Skilled Professional Point System” is an attractive pathway. Holders of the “Highly Skilled Professional” residence status who meet a certain point threshold (70 points or more) are eligible for preferential treatment, such as being able to apply for permanent residency after a shorter period. However, many applicants worry: “What should I do if my points are not enough?” This article explains, based on official government information, the countermeasures and points to note when your Highly Skilled Professional points are insufficient.

What is the Highly Skilled Professional Point System?

The Highly Skilled Professional Point System assigns points for various factors such as academic background, work experience, annual income, age, Japanese language ability, etc. Applicants who score 70 points or more are recognized as “Highly Skilled Professionals.” If you score 80 points or more, you can apply for permanent residency after just one year of residence; with 70 points, after three years. This system was introduced to attract highly skilled foreign talent to Japan, aiming to boost economic growth and international competitiveness.

Requirements for Permanent Residency Application and Maintaining Points

In principle, having 70 points or more under the Highly Skilled Professional Point System is a requirement for applying for permanent residency. Moreover, following the June 2024 guideline revision, applicants must also maintain these points at the time of application. If your points are below 70 at the time of application, your permanent residency application will not be accepted.

Common Cases of Insufficient Points

Typical reasons for a drop in points include:

• Loss of age-based points as you get older
• Decrease in annual income
• Changes in the evaluation of qualifications or academic background
• Changes in spouse or family circumstances

For example, someone who initially cleared the point threshold with age or income may fall below 70 points due to aging or a decrease in income during their period of residence.

Countermeasures When Points Are Insufficient

If your points fall below the threshold, consider the following strategies:

1. Review Other Point Categories

Points are awarded for a wide range of factors, such as academic background, work experience, Japanese language ability, qualifications, and research achievements. Even if you lose points for age or income, check if you can gain additional points in other categories, such as obtaining JLPT N1 certification, earning an additional degree, or winning awards in your field.

2. Increase Annual Income or Change Jobs

Since annual income accounts for a significant share of points, you may recover points by getting a raise or changing jobs. However, changing jobs requires a change of status of residence, so consult a specialist in advance.

3. Utilize Spouse or Family Circumstances

Points may also be awarded based on your spouse’s academic background or employment in Japan. Review your family information to see if you can gain extra points.

4. Consider Changing to Another Status of Residence

If you cannot reach 70 points, consider changing to another status of residence, such as “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services.” If you are below 70 points at the time of renewal, you cannot renew your Highly Skilled Professional status, so take action early.

5. Consult a Specialist

Point calculation, document preparation, and choosing the right status of residence can be complex. Consulting with an administrative scrivener (gyoseishoshi) or other specialist can help you find the best solution.

Example Case

Example: Mr. A (from China, age 35, IT company employee) obtained 70 points under the Highly Skilled Professional Point System and worked in Japan for three years. However, after turning 36, he lost age-based points, and his income temporarily decreased, dropping his total to 68 points. Mr. A obtained JLPT N1, gaining an additional 10 points, and was able to apply for permanent residency successfully.

Conclusion

The Highly Skilled Professional Point System offers a significant opportunity for those aiming for permanent residency in Japan. However, if your points fall short, prompt action is essential. Review point categories, seek ways to increase income, utilize family circumstances, or consider changing your status of residence as necessary. Since point calculation and document preparation can be complicated, do not hesitate to consult a specialist if you have any concerns.