u/Reasonable_Path8128

I’m calculating my points for Japan PR under the Highly Skilled Professional (80+ points) system, and I have a question about the annual salary points.

Are the salary points based on my latest tax record (e.g. residence tax/income tax certificate), or on my current annual salary as stated in my company's salary verification/employment certificate?

If it's based on my current salary, I can apply now. If it's based on my tax record, I'd probably have to wait until next year for my higher salary to be reflected.

Has anyone been in a similar situation or knows how Immigration calculates this? Thanks in advance!

I worked really hard to get my salary up to ¥10 million a year, but now it feels like every raise just gets eaten up by taxes and social insurance. My take-home pay hasn't increased nearly as much as I expected.

What are the best legal ways to reduce taxes in Japan? Any tips, strategies, or lesser-known deductions that have made a noticeable difference for you?

I’m planning to apply for permanent residence next year through the 1-year HSP points route. Currently based in Tokyo, but I’m open to relocating if it would significantly speed up processing.

From what I’ve seen, application review duration times seem to vary a lot by immigration bureau.

A few questions:

• Which locations are actually the fastest right now for PR review duration?
• When would be the best time to move before applying? (e.g., a few months before vs right before submission)

I’m also a bit concerned about documentation. If I move mid-year, I’ll likely end up paying residence tax in two different municipalities, which means I’d need tax certificates from both. I assume this is acceptable, but does it complicate the application or cause delays?

Lastly, aside from anecdotal reports, is there any reliable way to check review duration times by region?

Would really appreciate any recent experiences or advice.

I’m planning to apply for permanent residence next year through the 1-year HSP points route. Currently based in Tokyo, but I’m open to relocating if it would significantly speed up processing.

From what I’ve seen, application review duration times seem to vary a lot by immigration bureau.

A few questions:

• Which locations are actually the fastest right now for PR review duration?
• When would be the best time to move before applying? (e.g., a few months before vs right before submission)

I’m also a bit concerned about documentation. If I move mid-year, I’ll likely end up paying residence tax in two different municipalities, which means I’d need tax certificates from both. I assume this is acceptable, but does it complicate the application or cause delays?

Lastly, aside from anecdotal reports, is there any reliable way to check review duration times by region?

Would really appreciate any recent experiences or advice.