Benefits of Applying Directly for Permanent Residency from a Highly Skilled Professional (i) Visa#

Japan’s Highly Skilled Professional (HSP) visa system is designed to proactively attract talented foreign nationals who can contribute to the nation’s industrial innovation and economic growth. For many holders of this visa, a primary goal is to obtain Permanent Resident (PR) status.

A significant advantage of being recognized as an HSP (i) is the expedited path to permanent residency. The standard 10-year residency requirement can be shortened to just three years, or even one year, depending on the applicant’s points. Furthermore, after engaging in activities as an HSP (i) for three or more years, one becomes eligible to switch to the HSP (ii) visa, which grants an indefinite period of stay.

However, there is another option. After fulfilling the residency requirement as an HSP (i), it is possible to apply directly for Permanent Residency without first transitioning to HSP (ii). This article provides a detailed and objective explanation of the merits of this “direct to PR” route.

Key Differences: HSP (i), HSP (ii), and Permanent Resident (PR)#

First, it is crucial to understand the nature of each status of residence.

Highly Skilled Professional (i) - HSP (i):
- Period of Stay: 5 years.
- Scope of Activities: Limited to the permitted professional activities that formed the basis of the point calculation.
- Features: Offers a wide range of preferential treatments, such as allowing a spouse to work full-time and, under certain conditions, sponsoring parents to live in Japan.
Highly Skilled Professional (ii) - HSP (ii):
- Period of Stay: Indefinite.
- Scope of Activities: Expands significantly to include almost all work-related activities, such as managing a related business, in addition to the activities of HSP (i).
- Features: Retains most of the preferential treatments of HSP (i) while eliminating the need for visa renewals. However, it is predicated on the continuation of activities as a highly skilled professional.
Permanent Resident (PR):
- Period of Stay: Indefinite.
- Scope of Activities: No restrictions on activities, as long as they are not contrary to public order and morals. Holders are free to engage in any employment, start a business, or pursue education, similar to a Japanese national.
- Features: It is the most stable residential status, which enhances social credibility. On the other hand, specific HSP preferential treatments, like sponsoring parents, are no longer available.

Three Major Benefits of Applying Directly for PR from HSP (i)#

Based on these fundamental differences, here are three main advantages of applying directly for permanent residency without going through the HSP (ii) status.

1. Simplified Process and Cost Savings#

The most significant benefit is streamlining the application process into a single step. Instead of a two-stage process of “HSP (i) → HSP (ii) → PR,” you complete it in one “HSP (i) → PR” application.

This approach saves the time, paperwork, and application fees (revenue stamp costs) associated with the Change of Status of Residence application for HSP (ii). If obtaining permanent residency is your ultimate goal, this route is arguably the most efficient.

2. Complete Freedom of Activity#

While the HSP (ii) visa significantly relaxes restrictions on activities, these are primarily related to “employment.” In contrast, a Permanent Resident faces no restrictions on their “activities” in Japan.

This distinction has profound implications for future life planning. For instance, a PR can start a business in a field completely unrelated to their current profession, quit their job to attend graduate school, or take a sabbatical for personal pursuits. This “complete freedom of activity” is a powerful advantage exclusive to Permanent Residents, offering unparalleled flexibility in shaping one’s career and life path.

3. Establishment of the Most Stable Legal Status#

Although both HSP (ii) and PR offer an indefinite period of stay, their level of stability differs. The HSP (ii) status is a “status of residence” contingent on the holder continuing to engage in activities as a highly skilled professional. If these activities cease for a prolonged period, a change to another visa category may be required. Furthermore, the status can be revoked for serious legal violations.

In contrast, once Permanent Residency is granted, the status is secure and will not be lost unless the holder becomes subject to deportation. For individuals planning to build a life in Japan long-term, PR provides the most stable and secure legal foundation possible.

Which Path is Right for You?#

So, how do you decide which option is more suitable for your situation?

Direct application for PR is recommended for those who:

Have a strong desire to live in Japan permanently and want the freedom to change their professional activities in the future (e.g., career change, entrepreneurship, sabbatical).
Prefer a single, efficient process to save time and costs.
Seek the most stable and secure residential status available in Japan.

Switching to HSP (ii) is worth considering for those who:

Wish to continue utilizing specific HSP preferential treatments, such as sponsoring parents or employing a domestic worker (these benefits are not available to Permanent Residents).
Are concerned about the lengthy processing time for PR applications (which can take several months to over a year) and want to secure an indefinite status first.
Have some concerns about meeting all PR requirements (e.g., income stability, fulfillment of public duties) and prioritize obtaining an indefinite visa with a broad scope of activities as a first step.

Conclusion#

The route of applying directly for Permanent Residency from a Highly Skilled Professional (i) visa offers clear advantages: a simplified process, complete freedom of activity, and the most stable legal status. It is a highly attractive option for individuals who intend to make Japan their permanent home and desire maximum flexibility in their future careers and life plans.

At the same time, the HSP (ii) status has its own merits, providing an indefinite period of stay while retaining unique preferential treatments. The optimal choice depends on your long-term goals, family situation, and which benefits you prioritize. A comprehensive understanding of both systems is essential for making a well-informed decision.