Guide: Changing from Student Visa to Highly Skilled Professional (HSP) Visa in Japan【2025 Updated】
Last Updated:
- What is a Highly Skilled Professional (HSP) Visa?｜Japan’s top-tier work visa for international students
- Requirements to Change from Student Visa to HSP Visa
- Understanding the HSP Point System
- Tips to Get Recognized as a Highly Skilled Professional
- Required Documents for Changing from Student Visa to HSP Visa
- Procedures and Examination Period for Student to HSP Visa Change
- Q&A: Changing from Student Visa to Highly Skilled Professional Visa
- Google Reviews
- Why Choose ACROSEED Immigration Lawyer’s Office
- Fees for Changing from Student Visa to HSP Visa
- Recommended Pages Related to Student to HSP Visa Change
1. What is a Highly Skilled Professional (HSP) Visa?｜The highest-level work visa available to international students
The Highly Skilled Professional Visa (status name: Highly Skilled Professional) is a point-based work visa that scores applicants on education, work experience, income, Japanese language ability, and research achievements. Applicants who reach the threshold (usually 70 points or more) are eligible.
Even international students can change from a student visa if they have both a graduation certificate (or expected graduation) and an employment offer, meeting the required points. Compared with the “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” visa, the HSP visa offers greater advantages in family accompaniment, shortened path to PR, and prioritized processing, making it ideal for long-term career planning right after graduation.
1. Three Categories of HSP Visa (1(a) / 1(b) / 1(c))
The HSP (i) visa has three categories depending on professional activities (each requires meeting the point criteria):
- 1(a): Advanced Specialized/Technical Activities
Covers professionals and engineers in science, IT, data science, finance, and consulting. The most accessible category for new graduates, where master’s/PhD degrees, graduation from a Japanese university, and Japanese proficiency (JLPT/BJT) add valuable points. - 1(b): Advanced Business Management Activities
For entrepreneurs and executives managing companies. Actual capital, business plans, and employment structure are key. Points are gained from income level and experience. - 1(c): Advanced Academic Research Activities
For researchers and educators in universities or R&D sectors. Doctoral degrees, published papers, and patents can earn high points.
After gaining sufficient experience, you may upgrade to HSP (ii), which offers unrestricted activities and unlimited residence duration.
2. Difference from the “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” Visa
The “Engineer/Specialist/International Services” visa evaluates the relevance between job duties and educational background, without a point system. In contrast, the HSP visa quantifies professional excellence through a point system and grants additional privileges to high scorers.
| Comparison Item | Highly Skilled Professional (HSP) | Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services |
|---|---|---|
| Review Criteria | Point System (70–80 points) | Academic relevance and employment reality |
| Duration of Stay | 5 years (stable) | 1, 3, or 5 years (variable) |
| Family Benefits | Spouse can work (less restrictions); parents and domestic helpers may accompany under conditions | Spouse can work (with restrictions); Parents/domestic helpers not allowed |
| PR Pathway | 80 points: 1 year, 70 points: 3 years | Standard PR requirements (years, taxes, etc.) |
| Examination Handling | Priority review and administrative advantages | Standard processing |
Even with the same employer, a higher education level, salary, or language score can make the HSP visa more advantageous for career and life planning flexibility. Prepare a points table early and fill any gaps with Japanese qualifications, salary adjustment, or research achievements.
3. Benefits: Shorter PR Eligibility, Family Accompaniment, and More
- Faster route to Permanent Residency:
Applicants scoring 80 points can apply after 1 year; those with 70 points after 3 years (with good conduct, tax, and insurance records). - Expanded family benefits:
Spouses have relaxed work restrictions; parents and domestic helpers may accompany under certain conditions. - 5-year visa and priority review:
Standard stay of 5 years from the first issuance; expedited processing at immigration. - Flexible career path:
Allows smooth transitions between research, development, and management roles while maintaining specialization.
Building your point score is key. New graduates should combine Master’s/PhD degree points + Japanese university graduation + JLPT/BJT for 70 points. Ensure that your company’s job description and contract align with your field for a smoother review.
Tell us your company’s industry, job position, and academic major. We’ll advise whether a student-to-HSP visa change is possible. (Job placement not available)
English / Chinese support available.
Contact by Email 03-6905-6371
2. Requirements to Change from Student Visa to a Highly Skilled Professional (HSP) Visa
Highly Skilled Professional (HSP) status is based on a point system that totals scores for education, work experience, annual income, Japanese proficiency, research achievements, etc. Applicants generally need 70 points or more. International students may pursue a direct student visa → HSP visa change in Japan if they have a graduation (or expected graduation) certificate + an employment offer (employment contract) and the job duties match their field of specialization. Below we summarize when an in-Japan status change is permitted, the timing to apply with an expected graduation certificate, and salary guidelines.
1. Cases Where an In-Japan Status Change Is Allowed
- Your current status of residence is “Student” and still valid, and you can submit the application before expiry to the Immigration Services of Japan.
- You have a confirmed offer/employment contract (preferably a document specifying job duties, work location, and remuneration).
- The prospective job has a clear continuity of specialization with your degree/research (fits one of HSP (i) categories: 1(c) = academic research/education, 1(a) = specialized/technical, 1(b) = business management).
- You can substantiate 70+ points on the point calculation sheet (degree, Japanese university graduation bonus, income, JLPT/BJT, research outputs, etc.).
- You meet the general requirements (good conduct, proper tax payment, and social insurance coverage). Non-enrollment or arrears may be negative factors.
If the above are met, you may change status inside Japan via a “Change of Status of Residence” application. Streamline both the employer side (registration, financials, staffing, and business substance) and the applicant’s point design to facilitate a smoother review.
2. Timing to Apply with an Expected Graduation Certificate
- When you can start: Once your graduation timing is fixed and you have both an expected graduation certificate + employment offer (contract), you may apply.
- Practical submission timing: In many cases, start preparation about 1–3 months before graduation. Right after the offer is finalized, begin collecting documents (point-proof materials and company documents).
- Notes: If the graduation schedule shifts during review or if you fail to meet graduation requirements (e.g., credit shortage), it becomes disadvantageous. Carefully manage academic progress and your status expiry date.
3. Employment Contract & Salary Guideline (Annual Income of JPY 3,000,000+)
For HSP—especially 1(a) / 1(b)—an income level is often treated as a prerequisite for point recognition. As a rule of thumb, many cases expect annual income of JPY 3,000,000 or higher. Falling below this level may lead to non-recognition as HSP even with 70+ points.
| Item to Confirm | Key Points |
|---|---|
| Wage Level | Use JPY 3,000,000+/year as a practical baseline. Clearly state the breakdown of base salary, allowances, and bonuses in the contract so that decisions are made on a total-remuneration basis. |
| Job Duties | Describe the continuity of specialization with your degree/research/experience (job description and department assignment). |
| Point Additions | Secure 70 points with Master’s/PhD, bonus for graduation from a Japanese university, JLPT N1/N2 or BJT, and research outputs (papers/patents). |
| Employer Documents | Company registry, latest financials, business plan, staffing, social insurance enrollment—materials proving the substance of employment. |
At the offer stage, compare the income range with your point sheet, and where necessary, finalize your score by adjusting the salary table and securing JLPT/BJT. For new graduates, the classic route is to combine Master’s/PhD + Japanese university graduation bonus + JLPT/BJT.
3. Understanding How the HSP Point Calculation Works
1. Overview of the HSP Point Calculation
HSP (Highly Skilled Professional) is a point-based status that numerically evaluates education, career, income, Japanese proficiency, research results, etc., and grants recognition at 70 points or more.
1. Education
2. Work experience
3. Annual income
4. Age
5. Japanese language ability
6. National/professional qualifications
7. Graduation from designated institutions
8. Achievements in specified fields, etc.
For detailed point items, see the page below.
Complete Guide to HSP Point Calculation Items
We organize all HSP point items based on primary sources, with the latest information and citations.
For international students, the standard approach is to build points around education (Master’s/PhD), bonus for graduating from a Japanese institution, and Japanese proficiency (JLPT/BJT), then add income and research/achievements from your employer side.
2. How to Calculate Your HSP Points
Follow the steps below to see whether you meet the criteria as a Highly Skilled Professional.
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2. Use the auto point calculators for each category
Confirm the Three HSP Categories
In Japan, “Highly Skilled Professional” is divided into three categories depending on activities.
Identify which category you belong to before calculating points.
Roughly, (1(c)) is academic research/education, (1(a)) is corporate specialists/engineers, and (1(b)) is business management/executives.
1. Advanced Academic Research “HSP (i) 1(c)”
For those engaged in research/education at universities and research institutes, or running related projects.
2. Advanced Specialized/Technical “HSP (i) 1(a)”
For roles using specialized knowledge in natural/human sciences—engineering, planning, international services, etc. Includes cases combined with business operation.
3. Advanced Business Management “HSP (i) 1(b)”
For those responsible for managing/operating a company or business. Management track record and financial soundness are especially important.
Since October 16, 2025, standards related to “Business Manager” have become stricter, requiring, for example, capital of JPY 30 million+, one full-time employee, and Japanese proficiency around B2/JLPT N2.
You may also be asked to submit a business evaluation report by an expert (SME consultant, CPA, tax accountant, etc.).
If you plan to obtain HSP (i) 1(b) with future PR in mind, it’s essential to build management structure, employment, and tax compliance early.
For the latest details and practice, see the link below.
3. Automatic HSP Point Calculators
After identifying your category, calculate your score. Use the following calculators (by ACROSEED) to check points by type.
1. Advanced Academic Research “HSP (i) 1(c)”
2. Advanced Specialized/Technical “HSP (i) 1(a)”
3. Advanced Business Management “HSP (i) 1(b)”
4. The 70/80-Point Thresholds and Their Benefits
Under the HSP scheme, applicants recognized as “Highly Skilled Professionals” generally need a total of 70 points or more based on the official point table.
Those who achieve 80 points or more may receive special advantages in residence/PR review.
70 Points or More
This is the basic line for HSP recognition. Benefits include:
- Stay period of up to 5 years for stable residence
- Work permission for the spouse and easier family accompaniment
- Possibility to accompany parents and to employ domestic helpers under conditions
- PR eligibility shortened to 3 years
80 Points or More
For higher-rated talent, further benefits apply—especially a special rule allowing PR application as early as 1 year instead of the usual 10 years.
This acceleration requires meeting the following general requirements:
- Proper payment of taxes and social insurance
- No criminal/violation history (good conduct)
- Stable and continuous employment/income
- Lawful stay for the applicant and family members
In short, 70 points is the first step to obtain HSP status, while 80+ points is the fastest path to PR.
Before applying, accurately calculate your points based on education, career, income, research achievements, and Japanese proficiency, and plan to fill any shortfalls in advance if needed.
Tell us your prospective employer’s industry and job, and your major. We’ll advise whether you can obtain the HSP visa. (We do not provide job placement.)
English / Chinese support available. Contact us by Email 03-6905-6371
4. Tips for International Students to Be Recognized as Highly Skilled Professionals
When aiming for recognition under the Highly Skilled Professional (HSP) visa, first ensure a stable 70-point baseline. Even with limited conditions, you can markedly improve approval chances by focusing on the three pillars—education, income, and Japanese proficiency—and stacking points from research achievements and graduation from a Japanese institution. This supports a direct student visa → HSP visa change in Japan.
① Secure 70 Points by Balancing Education, Income, and Japanese
- Maximize education points: Approx. 20 points for a Master’s, ~30 for a PhD. Graduates of Japanese graduate schools may gain additional bonus points, creating synergy.
- Adjust income range: For new graduates, target JPY 3,000,000+; verify the salary table at offer stage. If income is lower, compensate with education + Japanese proficiency + graduation from a Japanese institution.
- Obtain Japanese qualifications: Acquire JLPT N1/N2 or BJT while still in school to lock in points before employment. In your resume and job description, specify actual Japanese-use scenarios.
PhD (30) + Income JPY 3.5M (20) + JLPT N1 (15) + Japanese university graduation (10) = Total 75
Master’s (20) + Income JPY 4.0M (25) + BJT 480 (10) + Research achievements (15) = Total 70
② Proving Specialization with a Master’s or PhD
Master’s/PhD degrees are core point items. They are especially powerful in research (1(c)) and specialized/technical (1(a)) tracks. Prepare diplomas, thesis abstracts, and key publications lists and clearly demonstrate relevance to job duties.
- Master’s: Together with the Japanese-graduate bonus, it strongly supports reaching 70 points.
- PhD: Highly valued for research, R&D, and data science roles. Peer-reviewed papers or patents further strengthen your case.
③ Bonus Points for Graduating from a Japanese Institution
International students who graduate from a Japanese university/graduate school/vocational school may receive bonus points. In addition to the graduation certificate, attach materials that explain the relevance between your research theme and job duties to help examiners understand your case.
④ Practical Add-Ons (Research, Qualifications, Achievements)
- Research & conferences: List papers, presentations, awards, patents, and competitions with supporting documents.
- Qualifications: IPA IT certifications, MBA, high TOEIC scores, etc. (varies by field) may add points.
- Work experience: Part-time jobs and internships can support the job–study relevance narrative.
⑤ Use University Recommendations and Employer Support
In HSP applications, examiners also assess the employer’s credibility, not just the applicant’s points. Prepare recommendation letters and professor comments, and compile materials that show the employer’s stable structure.
- University recommendations: Letters that connect research content to job duties substantiate expertise.
- Company materials: Registry, financials, job descriptions, org charts—evidence of stable operations.
- Brochures & web info: For startups/new companies, provide a company profile to evidence real operations.
Build on Master’s/PhD + graduation from a Japanese institution + Japanese qualifications, then combine income, research outputs, and employer structure to consistently reach the 70–80 point range.
Use a pre-application point check by experts to plan how to fill any gaps.
5. Documents Required to Apply for a Change of Status to HSP
Applications to change to the HSP (Highly Skilled Professional) visa generally require broader and more precise documentation than general work visas. If you’re changing directly from “Student”, it’s vital to clarify education, research content, job relevance, and point calculation grounds.
In addition to the standard immigration forms, compiling the following supporting documents can significantly increase the approval rate:
- Detailed job description
- Diploma(s), transcript(s), thesis abstract(s), and other materials proving specialization
- Point calculation sheet and supporting evidence (income, Japanese proficiency, research achievements, etc.)
- Employment contract, company profile, organization chart—documents explaining the employer’s substance
- If you graduated in Japan: graduation certificate and a memo explaining the relationship between research theme and job duties
Required documents are updated from time to time due to system and practice changes. Always check the latest information on the Immigration Services Agency (ISA) website before submission.
ACROSEED Immigration Lawyer’s Office proposes a document set optimized for the highest approval likelihood based on official lists and your individual situation (education, experience, employer size, offer terms, etc.). We also advise students how to use documents like an expected graduation certificate and offer letter during studies.
6. Changing from Student to HSP｜Steps and Review Timeline
More graduates of Master’s/PhD programs in Japan now seek careers in advanced fields and aim to change to the HSP (Highly Skilled Professional) visa.
Because work is not permitted under “Student” status, you must file a Change of Status of Residence application once your job offer or research contract is fixed to complete a student visa → HSP visa change.
From offer confirmation to approval, plan for about 3–4 months. During peak seasons (Mar–Apr, Sep–Oct), early preparation is crucial.
1. Process Flow: Student → HSP Visa
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1
- Free Consultation & Pre-Check of Points
- Consult via phone/email/online (Zoom, LINE, WeChat) or in person.
Our immigration lawyers calculate your points (education, income, Japanese, research, etc.) to assess whether you can reach 70 and advise the best HSP category (1(c)/1(a)/1(b)).
We also check timing questions such as applying with an expected graduation certificate and aligning for April onboarding.
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2
- Engagement & Contract
- Once engaged, we sign the agreement and start. We share a document checklist and coordinate a schedule so school, employer, and applicant can collaborate smoothly.
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3
- Preparing Application Documents & Point Evidence
- Based on ACROSEED’s experience, we prepare a set designed for the highest approval rate.
For HSP, we compile a job description, a relevance map between education and duties, the point sheet, and Japanese certificates, presenting specialization clearly to examiners.
After your confirmation and signature, we finalize for submission.
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4
- Filing with the Immigration Services Agency
- Our immigration lawyers file on your behalf.
Typical review time is about 1–2 months (longer in peak season).
If additional materials are requested, ACROSEED handles all communications with the ISA.
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5
- Approval Notice & Endorsement
- The decision is sent to ACROSEED. Upon approval, we complete endorsement (sticker on the residence card) at the ISA and finalize the HSP visa issuance.
If not approved, we analyze the reasons and support a re-application at no extra fee.
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- Return of Passport & Residence Card
- We return your endorsed passport and the new residence card.
After changing to HSP, you can use HSP-specific benefits such as spouse work permission and shortened PR timelines.
The key is the timing for submitting a “graduation certificate” or an “expected graduation certificate.” Many universities issue official certificates in Feb–Mar. Often you apply in Dec–Jan with an expected graduation certificate and then submit the official certificate later if requested.
Poor scheduling may cause you to miss an April start, so coordinate among the school, employer, and yourself.
ACROSEED Immigration Lawyer’s Office offers a one-stop service from post-offer point checks to approval so students can obtain HSP smoothly. We support cases from vocational schools, graduate schools, and overseas universities.
2. HSP Review Timeline
HSP review typically takes around 1–2 months. The ISA publishes the monthly average processing days. Check the latest information below, as it varies by season and case content.
FAQs (Q&A)
Yes. If you have both an expected graduation certificate + an employment contract, you can apply to change directly from a student visa to an HSP visa in Japan. In practice, many international students complete their degree at a Japanese university/graduate school and then submit the change in Japan.
Note that you must show consistency between your academic background and job duties and reach at least 70 points. Depending on your graduation date and contract terms, you may need to fine-tune the filing timing.
Both routes are possible, but if you already meet the requirements, a direct student visa → HSP visa change is usually more efficient.
If you cannot reach 70 points at hiring (e.g., lower income or no Japanese qualification yet), it’s realistic to start with “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services”, build experience/Japanese, and then change to HSP later.
Because HSP applications strictly follow the point table, first confirm whether you can demonstrate 70 points at the time of your initial status application.
Formally, an application is possible with 70+ points; however, in practice, income below JPY 3,000,000 is often seen as insufficient economic independence for HSP.
Even with strong points from education, Japanese, and research, failing to meet a minimum salary level reduces approval likelihood.
Where possible, coordinate with the employer to ensure a total annual remuneration of JPY 3,000,000 or more and have it stated in the contract.
One of the biggest advantages of the HSP visa is the shortened pathway to Permanent Residency (PR).
While ordinary work visas generally require around 10 years of residence for PR eligibility, the HSP scheme shortens the timeline substantially.
- 70+ points: PR application may be possible after 3 years of residence in Japan
- 80+ points: PR eligibility may be met in as little as 1 year
This acceleration is a legal preferential measure. If you also satisfy other PR requirements (good conduct, tax/social insurance compliance, stable income, etc.), you can target PR earlier.
Therefore, if you are recognized as HSP soon after graduation, achieving PR in about 4–5 years total is realistic.
Tell us your prospective employer’s industry and job, and your major. We’ll advise whether you can change from a student visa to an HSP visa. (We do not provide job placement.)
English/Chinese supported. Contact us by Email 03-6905-6371
8.Google Customer Reviews
9. Why choose ACROSEED
- Why clients choose ACROSEED
- Founded in 1986; industry-leading 40,000+ visa filings
- 99.9% approval rate; trusted by many clients
- No travel expenses; flat fees nationwide
- Extensive track record in complex/re-application after refusal cases
- No add-on fees; transparent pricing
- Free re-application until approval if refused
- Support available in Japanese, English, and Chinese
Founded in 1986, with 40,000+ visa applications
ACROSEED was founded in 1986. Since 1990—the first year administrative scriveners were allowed to handle immigration under the law—we have specialized in immigration work. Our total filings exceed 40,000 (as of March 2025).
We currently handle 3,000–4,000 visa filings annually, visiting immigration twice a week to stay current on examinations and legal changes.
By choosing ACROSEED, you get services based on the latest examination trends and the industry’s deepest practical experience.
99.9% approval rate—peace of mind backed by clients’ trust
Since opening in 1986, ACROSEED has always prioritized trustworthy services. At the free consultation stage, if approval seems unlikely, we explain this and decline the engagement.
As a result, we have maintained an approval rate of 99%+ (including re-applications) since opening.
However, for cases with a viable chance where clients wish to proceed, we will make a maximum effort together.
Our attentive, tailored service has earned broad support from clients.
No travel fees—flat rates nationwide
Our office is in Nagatacho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, but we handle immigration cases nationwide at flat rates with no travel expenses.
For distant clients, we offer online consultations via Skype or Zoom so you can speak face-to-face with your consultant just like an in-person visit.
Strong results in difficult and re-application cases
We have many approvals for cases repeatedly refused by clients on their own or by other law firms.
ACROSEED’s track record is unparalleled, and we are often referred the most difficult cases from around the country—operating like a “general hospital” for the industry.
Don’t give up—consult us even for seemingly difficult cases.
No add-on fees—transparent pricing
Our service fees are only those listed on our website.
We do not add fees due to client circumstances such as frequent travel or prior refusals.
We provide a transparent pricing system for your peace of mind.
Free re-application until approval if refused
If a case filed by ACROSEED is unfortunately refused, we will re-apply free of charge as long as there remains a possibility of approval.
While some competitors offer “full refunds if refused,” we believe refunds do not solve the client’s problem
.
Accepting a case casually and leaving a refusal record in your filing history can make approval much harder later.
Clients who choose ACROSEED from among many firms deserve our stance of “getting the fastest approval possible—and if refused, supporting relentlessly until approval.”
10. Fees for Changing from Student Visa to HSP (tax excluded)
• There are no extra charges based on your conditions.
• ACROSEED Immigration Lawyer's Office serves clients nationwide. Clients outside the Tokyo area can use the same fees below.
• We accept VISA and Mastercard payments.
| 【Special Student Price】 Change from Student Visa to Work Visa |
JPY 80,000 |
|---|---|
| 【Re-application after a Refusal】 Change from Student Visa to Work Visa |
JPY 150,000 |
11. Related Pages Often Read Together with “Student → HSP Visa Change”
For Students
[For Students] Guide to Changing from Student Visa to Work Visa (2025 Edition)
[For Students] Guide to Changing from Student Visa to Engineer / Humanities / International Services (2025 Edition)
[For Students] Guide to Changing from Student Visa to Highly Skilled Professional (2025 Edition)
[For Students] Guide to Changing from Student Visa to Designated Activities (No.46) (2025 Edition)
For HR Managers / Employers
[For HR Managers] Visa and Procedure Guide for Hiring International Graduates (April 2026 Entry)
[For HR Managers] Guide to Obtaining the Engineer / Specialist in Humanities / International Services Visa
[For HR Managers] Applying for the “Highly Skilled Professional” Visa for Foreign Employees
[For HR Managers] Application for “Designated Activities (Notice No.46)” Visa
Administrative Scrivener Corporation ACROSEED
Managing Partner: Makoto Sano
Japan Federation of Administrative Scriveners Associations (Reg. No. 01080685)
Tokyo Administrative Scriveners Association (Member No. 4568)
Founded in 1986
Now in our 39th year specializing in foreign nationals’ legal affairs across two generations.
Registered Administrative Scrivener in 2001
23 years as an international administrative scrivener.
Appointed to the Tokyo Association’s International Division in 2023
Contributing to the development and training of administrative scriveners.
[Track record]
ACROSEED’s legal services are chosen by over 1,000 corporations including listed/global companies. We also have many engagements as lecturers/authors on foreign employment.
Since opening our practice in 1986, we have been involved in consulting on visa applications for foreigners for nearly 40 years as an immigration lawyer.
Telephone consultation, email consultation, online consultation, and consultation at our office are available.
