Short answer: A software engineer working in Tokyo held an Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services visa. After calculating more than 70 points, the applicant changed status to Highly Skilled Professional and received a 5-year period of stay. The applicant then continued to improve Japanese ability and monitor income with a view to an 80-point permanent-residence route.
Applicant background
The applicant was in the early thirties, held a master’s degree, had already worked in Japan for several years, earned a salary level that supported meaningful points, and held JLPT N2. The previous status was Engineer/Specialist, typically renewed for 1 or 3 years. The goals were a longer period of stay, better conditions for the spouse’s employment, and a stronger position for future permanent residence. See Japan Highly Skilled Professional Visa HSP.
How were 70 points reached?
The main contributions came from the master’s degree, years of relevant work experience, age-banded salary points, and the N2 Japanese bonus. Other possible bonuses (such as a designated university or professional qualification) depend on the individual profile. Before filing, the applicant repeatedly checked the official points table and assembled income and education evidence to clear the change-of-status threshold.
Practical changes after the switch
Once HSP status was granted, a single 5-year period of stay reduced the burden of frequent renewals. The spouse could explore Designated Activities for more flexible full-time work options. The applicant later aimed for N1 and continued to track income so that, while remaining in HSP status, the conditions for an 80-point permanent-residence application could be built over time.
Case highlights
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Previous status | Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services |
| New status | Highly Skilled Professional Type 1 |
| Points level | Above 70 |
| Main point sources | Education, experience, salary, Japanese |
| Period of stay | 5 years at a time |
| Next goal | Reach 80 points and plan permanent residence |
Global Immigrate’s recommendation
Applicants already in Japan on an ordinary work visa whose points are close to or above 70 should seriously evaluate the timing of a change to HSP. Success depends on job duties that fit an HSP activity type, complete points evidence, and conditions such as income and Japanese ability that can be sustained. Those targeting the one-year permanent-residence exception should manage the score carefully after the change so that a job move or income drop does not fall below the threshold. Complete a formal points calculation before deciding to file.
Data current as of October 2026.
This article is general information only and does not constitute legal or tax advice. Individual results vary.