Introduction

The Highly Skilled Professional (HSP) visa is a privileged status for foreign talent with advanced knowledge and skills, supporting Japan’s economic growth and internationalization. However, the risk of non-approval rises if required documents are missing or inaccurate, making correct document preparation and knowledge of resubmission procedures essential.

Overview of the HSP Visa

Japan’s HSP visa is a point-based residence status. Applicants must score at least 70 points among categories such as education, work history, income, and research achievements. Categories include Highly Skilled Professional(i)(a)/(b)/(c) and Highly Skilled Professional(ii), officially defined by the Immigration Services Agency.

Required Documents and Common Deficiencies

Typical required documents include:

• Certificate of Eligibility application
• Photograph (within 3 months)
• Proof of education and work history
• Employment contract and company profile
• Income proof such as tax slips
• Public pension, insurance payment certificates
• Resident certificate and tax payment certificate

Common deficiencies are missing work or education evidence, income proof, family documents, outdated public records (older than three months), or missing pension/tax papers.

What to Do After a Refusal

If your application is refused due to missing documents, first check the refusal notice for details. Prepare the missing or corrected documents and resubmit, ensuring all information is accurate and up to date. Supplement explanations or underlying documents when needed, especially for work history or family situations.

Refusal Prevention and Pre-Checks

To prevent refusal:

• Rigorously check all documents in advance
• Only use up-to-date originals (issued within 3 months)
• Confirm taxes, pension, and insurance payments are not overdue or unpaid before you apply

Consulting a specialist administrative scrivener also helps to prepare supplementary documents and reduce chances of additional requests from immigration officials. Prepare family proof as needed.

Summary

With a careful pre-check and prompt handling of document deficiencies, HSP visa applicants greatly improve their approval chances. Always confirm with the latest government sources and seek expert advice for complex cases, ensuring accuracy and completeness in your submission。