Required Documents to Prove a Patent for the Highly-Skilled Professional Points System in Japan#
When applying for Japan’s Highly-Skilled Professional (HSP) visa, a points-based system is used to objectively evaluate the applicant’s abilities and achievements. This system includes various categories for earning points, with “research achievements” being a significant factor for individuals with specialized skills and knowledge.
Specifically, the item “Having one or more patented inventions as the inventor” is worth 15 points, a substantial contribution toward reaching the 70-point threshold required for the visa. However, to claim these points, you must provide official documentation that accurately proves you are the inventor.
This article provides a clear and objective guide on the necessary documents for claiming points for a patented invention in the HSP points calculation, along with important considerations for preparing your application.
Point Allocation Criteria for Patented Inventions (15 Points)#
First, it is crucial to understand the exact requirements for this point category. The official points calculation table provided by the Immigration Services Agency of Japan (ISAJ) specifies the following under the “Research Achievements” category:
“Having one or more patented inventions as the inventor: 15 points”
The core of this requirement is that the applicant must be the “inventor.” Simply owning the patent rights (being the patentee or patent holder) is not sufficient. For example, in the case of an employee invention where the company is the patentee, the applicant can still claim these points if they are officially recorded as the inventor of that patent. Patents granted in countries other than Japan are also eligible.
Specific Documents Required to Prove a Patent#
To prove your eligibility for these points, you will generally need to submit the following documents. These documents serve to establish both the existence of the patent and the applicant’s status as its inventor.
1. A Copy of the Patent Certificate (特許証 - Tokkyoshō) This is the official certificate issued by the Patent Office once a patent has been examined and formally registered. It serves as proof that the patent officially exists. The certificate includes information such as the patent number, the title of the invention, the name of the patentee, and the date of registration.
2. A Copy of the Official Patent Gazette (特許公報 - Tokkyo Kōhō) The patent gazette is an official publication issued by the Patent Office to disclose the details of registered patents. This document is critically important because it explicitly lists the names of the “inventors.” Applicants must submit a copy of the page(s) from the gazette where their name is clearly listed under the “Inventor(s)” section.
During the screening process, the ISAJ uses the patent gazette to objectively verify that the applicant meets the “inventor” requirement. Therefore, the patent certificate alone is insufficient; you must always prepare it as a set with the relevant pages from the patent gazette.
[Supplementary Documents] While not always mandatory, the following documents can be beneficial depending on the circumstances:
- A Copy of the Patent Register (特許登録原簿 - Tokkyo Tōroku Genbo): This can provide more detailed proof of the current status of the patent rights (e.g., whether it is still valid or has been assigned to another party).
- Certificate related to an Employee Invention: For inventions created while employed by a company, supplementary documents like a “Certificate of Invention” issued by the employer or a copy of the internal “Invention Disclosure Form” can help reinforce the applicant’s role as the inventor.
Key Points to Remember When Preparing Documents#
Proper document preparation is essential for a smooth and successful screening process. Please pay close attention to the following points.
Proof of “Inventor” Status#
To reiterate, the most critical element is proving that you, the applicant, are an “inventor.” In cases of joint inventions, you are still eligible for points as long as your name is listed as one of the co-inventors. Always double-check the patent gazette to confirm that your name is correctly listed.
Handling Foreign Patents#
Patents obtained outside of Japan are also eligible for points. In this case, you must submit equivalent official documents issued by the relevant public body (e.g., the national patent office) of that country, such as the patent certificate and the official publication listing the inventors. Furthermore, if these documents are in a language other than Japanese, a full Japanese translation must be attached. The translation can be done by anyone, but it must include the translator’s name, contact information, and signature or seal.
Eligible Types of Intellectual Property#
The 15 points are awarded specifically for “patented inventions.” Other forms of intellectual property, such as “utility models” (実用新案 - jitsuyō shinan) or “design registrations” (意匠登録 - ishō tōroku), do not qualify for this particular point item. Ensure that your achievement is an invention protected under patent law.
Consistency of Information#
Ensure that all information, such as your name and the title of the invention, is consistent across all submitted documents. If your current name is different from the name listed as the inventor (e.g., due to marriage), you must submit an official document, such as a family register (koseki tohon) or marriage certificate, to prove the legal name change.
Conclusion#
To successfully add 15 points for a patented invention to your Highly-Skilled Professional visa application, submitting objective and official evidence is non-negotiable. The fundamental requirements are a copy of the “Patent Certificate” and a copy of the “Official Patent Gazette” that clearly shows your name as an inventor.
The key to a successful claim is unequivocally demonstrating your status as an “inventor.” Depending on your specific situation, such as using a foreign patent or having undergone a name change, additional documentation may be necessary. A thorough understanding of your circumstances and meticulous preparation of your documents will lead to a more efficient and successful application process.