Introduction

The Highly Skilled Professional Visa is a residence status granted to foreigners with advanced professional skills in Japan, offering various preferential treatments. Generally, a certain income threshold is required, and an annual salary of 6 million yen or more often leads to high points. This article explains how to obtain the visa even if your income is below 6 million yen and important points to note, based on official government information.

Basic Income Requirements for the Highly Skilled Professional Visa

This visa requires applicants to score at least 70 points in a points-based system evaluating education, work experience, age, income, and expertise. Income-related points are given as follows:

• Over 6 million yen to under 7 million yen: 20 points
• Over 5 million yen to under 6 million yen: 15 points
• Over 4 million yen to under 5 million yen: 10 points
  However, if the income is below 3 million yen, the applicant is not recognized as a highly skilled professional. Thus, a minimum expected income of 3 million yen is mandatory.

How to Compensate Points When Income Is Below 6 Million Yen

If the income is below 6 million yen, compensating with other factors is important:

• Education: 10 points for a university degree, additional points for a master’s degree
• Work experience: Up to 25 points depending on years in the specialized field
• Age: Additional points for younger applicants (under 30 or early 30s)
• Qualifications: Points for passing JLPT N1 or holding professional certificates

If these add up to 70 points or more, the visa is attainable.

Income Calculation and Included Items

The income considered is the expected annual income based on employment contracts, not past earnings. Recognized components include:

• Basic salary
• Guaranteed bonuses documented in the employment contract
• Position or qualification allowances related to the job

Expenses like housing allowance, commuting allowance, and family allowance are generally excluded.

Important Points for Applicants with Income Below 6 Million Yen

• Minimum expected income must be 3 million yen or more.
• Proof of expected income through employer certificates and tax documents is required.
• Total points count; income alone is not decisive.
• Focus on improving qualifications and language skills to gain points.
• Prepare documentation carefully balancing age, work experience, and other points.

Conclusion

Even with an annual income under 6 million yen, obtaining the Highly Skilled Professional Visa is possible by meeting the minimum income and balancing other point categories. Understanding the income calculation details and point system is key. Expert advice based on up-to-date government information helps ensure a smooth application process.