PR through the HSP points for IT field. Does my case look viable?

Hi everyone,

I’m trying to understand whether my idea of obtaining PR through the HSP points system is realistic in practice, especially for someone in IT.

My background:

  • I work in IT/software engineering
  • I have a Master’s degree
  • I have 10+ years of experience in my field
  • My current employer is a foreign company
  • My compensation is above $8k/month
  • Based on age, degree, work experience and compensation, I should qualify for 80 HSP points

My understanding is that with 80+ points, it may be possible to apply for Permanent Residency after 1 year.

The idea I currently have is something like this:

  • move to Japan
  • open a GK (合同会社)
  • sign a contract between my current foreign employer and the Japanese GK
  • receive my compensation in Japan instead of my current home country
  • pay all Japanese taxes properly
  • fully comply with Japanese rules/regulations
  • after 1 year apply for PR via HSP points

So my first question is:

Does this sound like a realistic path overall for someone in IT, assuming the details/documents/taxes/etc. are all handled correctly?

My second question is about the actual entry point into the process.

I’m confused about what I would already need in order to open a GK and start this structure in the first place.

As far as I understand:

  • foreigners can open a GK
  • but in practice you need banking
  • and opening a Japanese bank account as a non-resident/tourist seems difficult or maybe impossible

My initial assumption was I can come on tourist visa and setup GK and then apply for Business Manager visa to actually start receiving compensation and paying taxes.

But I feel like there may be a “chicken and egg” problem around company setup and banking before residency.

I am not interested in working for a Japanese company, because I am basically a co-founder of those company paying me money and I love my job.

Would really appreciate hearing from people who have gone through something similar, especially in tech/remote work/business owner situations.

Thanks!

by noysslambent