- ■ Introduction
- ■ What is the Highly Skilled Professional System?
- ■ Why is Stricter Criteria Needed Now?
- ■ Specific Changes
- ■ Impact on Permanent Residency Applications
- ■ Impact on Companies
- ■ How Should We View This? ~ A Step Toward True Coexistence ~
- ■ Measures You Can Take Now
- ■ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- ■ Conclusion
■ Introduction
A significant change is coming to Japan’s residence status system in fiscal year 2026. The Ministry of Justice has decided to tighten the criteria for recognizing foreign nationals as “Highly Skilled Professionals” and is proceeding with amendments to related ministerial ordinances.
This change holds great significance for foreign residents in Japan and companies employing foreign nationals. This article provides a detailed explanation from a professional perspective on the background of the policy change, specific impacts, and future strategies.
■ What is the Highly Skilled Professional System?
The Highly Skilled Professional status is a residence status granted to foreign nationals with specialized knowledge or skills who work for Japanese companies or research institutions. This system adopts a “points-based” approach, where points are awarded for categories such as academic background, work experience, annual income, age, and Japanese language proficiency. Those who accumulate 70 points or more are recognized as “Highly Skilled Professionals.”
【Benefits of Highly Skilled Professional Status】
・Long period of stay (5 years)
・Spouse is permitted to work
・Parents may accompany (under certain conditions)
・Shortened waiting period for permanent residency application
The last benefit—shortened waiting period for permanent residency—is particularly attractive to many foreign nationals.
■ Why is Stricter Criteria Needed Now?
【1. Rising Minimum Wage and Average Income】
Japan’s minimum wage has been rising steadily year by year, and as of 2026, the national average exceeds 1,000 yen per hour. In this context, the criterion of an annual income of 3 million yen or more is no longer sufficient as an indicator of “highly skilled” talent.
【2. Alignment with Permanent Residency Requirements】
In recent years, income requirements for permanent residency applications have also been rising. Since the Highly Skilled Professional points system serves as an important pathway to permanent residency, consistency between the two systems is necessary.
【3. Emphasis on Quality】
The government’s policy shift emphasizes quality over quantity, aiming to welcome foreign talent who can truly contribute to the development of Japanese society.
■ Specific Changes
The main changes under consideration by the government are as follows:
【1. Increase in Income Requirements】
The current criterion of an annual income of 3 million yen or more is expected to be significantly raised. Although specific amounts have not been disclosed, it is anticipated that the threshold will be set around or above the average Japanese income (approximately 4.5 to 5 million yen).
【2. Review of Evaluation Items】
Some evaluation categories may be abolished, leading to greater emphasis on essential abilities and achievements.
【3. Streamlined Review Process】
By clarifying criteria, the examination process will also become more efficient.
■ Impact on Permanent Residency Applications
The pathway most affected by this tightening is the “Highly Skilled Professional → Permanent Residency” route.
【Current System】
・Highly Skilled Professional with 70 points: Eligible for permanent residency after 3+ years of residence
・Highly Skilled Professional with 80 points: Eligible for permanent residency after 1+ year of residence
【Typical Case in Practice】
A common scenario seen in practice includes the following conditions:
・Graduate degree from a prestigious Japanese university (e.g., Hokkaido University)
・Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) N1 certification
・Age in 20s
・Annual income of 5 million yen or more
Under these conditions, applicants could reach 80 points and apply for permanent residency within 1-2 years after graduate school graduation. Many young foreign nationals have successfully obtained permanent residency through this route.
【Future Outlook】
With the increase in income criteria, reaching 80 points will become more challenging. As a result:
・Fewer people will be able to use this pathway
・The period required to obtain permanent residency will be extended
・Higher levels of expertise and achievements will be required
■ Impact on Companies
This change also holds important implications for companies employing foreign nationals.
【Impact on Recruitment Strategy】
・Competition to secure excellent foreign talent will intensify
・Review of compensation packages (especially annual income) will be necessary
・Presenting long-term career paths will become more critical
【Key Points for HR Management】
・Verify the residence status of currently employed foreign staff
・Provide early support to employees planning to apply for permanent residency
・Revise conditions for new hires
■ How Should We View This? ~ A Step Toward True Coexistence ~
Some may view this tightening as a “harsh policy toward foreigners.” However, from another perspective, it can also be seen as an important step toward realizing a “true society of coexistence.”
【Positive Aspects】
・Appropriate criteria attract high-quality foreign talent
・Selection of individuals who can genuinely contribute to Japan’s economic growth and social development
・Fair and sustainable system for both foreign nationals and Japanese citizens
【Maintaining Motivation】
Highly Skilled Professional status and permanent residency serve as strong motivations for studying and acquiring specialized knowledge in Japan. Rather than lowering the bar arbitrarily, setting appropriate standards allows Japan to welcome foreign nationals with a strong commitment to “building a long-term career in this country.”
In Japan, where the birthrate is declining and the population is aging, foreign talent is indispensable. That is precisely why institutional design that emphasizes not only quantity but also quality—welcoming individuals who can grow together as members of Japanese society—is essential.
■ Measures You Can Take Now
【For Foreign Residents in Japan】
- Check Your Current Status
First, verify your current points. The Ministry of Justice’s website provides a points calculation table. - Consider Early Application
If you are considering applying for permanent residency, it is advisable to consult with a specialist about applying under current criteria. - Career Advancement Planning
Develop a career plan to increase your income and expertise. Acquiring certifications and seeking promotions are also effective. - Improve Japanese Language Proficiency
Higher Japanese proficiency earns more points. If you have not yet obtained N1, aim to acquire it.
【For Corporate HR Personnel】
- Understand Employees’ Residence Status
Assess the residence status and points situation of foreign employees and consider necessary support. - Review Compensation Packages
To secure and retain excellent foreign talent, you may need to review annual income and benefits. - Collaborate with Specialists
We recommend establishing a cooperative relationship with specialists such as immigration lawyers familiar with residence status matters. - Continue Information Gathering
Stay informed so you can respond quickly once specific details of the ministerial ordinance amendment are announced.
■ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. When will the new criteria take effect?
A. The ministerial ordinance is scheduled to be amended within fiscal year 2026, but the specific enforcement date has not yet been announced. It is necessary to closely monitor official announcements from the Ministry of Justice.
Q2. What if I already hold Highly Skilled Professional residence status?
A. Already-acquired residence status will not immediately become invalid, but new criteria may apply upon renewal.
Q3. What annual income will be required?
A. Although specific amounts have not been announced, it is expected that the threshold will be around or above the average Japanese income (4.5 to 5 million yen).
Q4. I am currently preparing my permanent residency application—should I rush?
A. Since there may be a possibility of applying under current criteria, we recommend consulting with a specialist as soon as possible.
■ Conclusion
The tightening of Highly Skilled Professional recognition criteria in fiscal year 2026 will have a significant impact on both foreign residents in Japan and companies employing them.
While this change may seem strict at first glance, it is an important step toward welcoming the highly skilled talent Japan truly needs and building a sustainable society of coexistence.
As details of the changes become clear, appropriate responses will be required. If you have concerns or questions, please consult with a specialist.
We are here to support your future in Japan.
【References】
・Ministry of Justice “Points-Based System for Highly Skilled Foreign Professionals”
https://www.moj.go.jp/isa/publications/materials/newimmiact_3_index.html
・Immigration Services Agency of Japan
https://www.moj.go.jp/isa/index.html
【Consultation Regarding This Article】
For inquiries regarding residence status and permanent residency applications, please feel free to contact a specialized immigration lawyer’s office.
※This article is based on information as of August 2026. Please check official announcements from the Ministry of Justice for the latest information.
