法務局への登記Application

Detailed explanation of 法務局への登記Application based on official information from 出入国在留管理庁. Types of Residence Status & Requirements

Published: January 12, 2026

Application for Permanent Residency in Japan

1. Overview

Permanent Residency (永住許可, Eijū Kyoka) is an immigration status that allows foreign nationals to reside in Japan indefinitely without restrictions on activities, provided they comply with Japanese laws. Unlike other visa statuses, it does not require periodic renewal (though a re-entry permit and residence card updates are still necessary) and imposes no limitations on employment type. Obtaining permanent residency is a significant milestone that offers long-term stability and is often sought by long-term residents who wish to make Japan their permanent home. The application process is rigorous, requiring applicants to demonstrate a consistent record of good conduct, financial stability, and a commitment to contributing to Japanese society.

2. Applicable Objects & Scenarios

This application is relevant for foreign nationals residing in Japan who wish to settle permanently. Key scenarios include:

  • Long-term residents who have lived in Japan continuously for a required period (typically 10 years, with reductions for certain categories).
  • Spouses of Japanese nationals, Permanent Residents, or Special Permanent Residents after a shorter period of marriage and cohabitation in Japan (typically 3 years, with 1 year of residence in Japan).
  • Highly Skilled Professionals (HSP) under the point-based system who have achieved a required point threshold and have resided in Japan for a shortened period (e.g., 1 or 3 years).
  • Individuals recognized for contributions to Japan in diplomatic, social, economic, or cultural fields.
  • Minor children of Permanent Residents or other specific humanitarian cases.

The status is needed when one seeks to eliminate visa expiry concerns, gain unrestricted employment rights, and solidify their life foundations in Japan.

3. Core Conclusions

  • Eligibility is Principle-Based: Approval is not automatic upon meeting minimum residency periods. Immigration Services evaluate the applicant's overall profile, including conduct, financial independence, and future prospects.
  • Financial Stability is Crucial: Applicants or their household sponsors must demonstrate a stable and sufficient income/assets to support life in Japan without becoming a public burden.
  • Good Conduct is Mandatory: A clean legal and tax compliance record (resident tax, pension, national health insurance) is essential. Serious or repeated offenses will lead to rejection.
  • Guarantor Requirement: A Japanese national or Permanent Resident guarantor is required, assuming moral and financial responsibility.
  • Processing is Lengthy: Review times are extensive, often taking 6 to 12 months or more from submission.

4. Procedures & Steps

Step 1: Preparation

  1. Confirm Eligibility: Carefully review the official eligibility criteria on the Immigration Services Agency (ISA) website. Assess your residency period, conduct, and financial history.
  2. Gather Required Documents: Prepare the core set of documents, which typically includes:
    • Application for Permanent Residence Permit (定型書式).
    • Passport and Residence Card (在留カード).
    • Documents proving stable income and assets (e.g., tax certificates, employment verification, bank statements).
    • Certificate of Residence (住民票) for all household members.
    • Tax Payment Certificates (住民税の課税証明書と納税証明書) from your local municipality for the most recent years.
    • Pension & Health Insurance Proof: Records of National Pension (国民年金) or Employees' Pension (厚生年金) and National Health Insurance (国民健康保険) payments.
    • Guarantor Documents: A letter of guarantee (身元保証書) and the guarantor's proof of income/tax certificates and residence record.
    • Justification Letter (理由書): A personal statement explaining your reasons for applying.
    • Additional documents specific to your current residence status (e.g., spouse visa, HSP visa).

Step 2: Application & Submission

  1. Complete Forms: Fill out all application forms accurately. The guarantor must complete and seal their section.
  2. Final Check: Ensure all documents are originals or certified copies as required, are within their validity period (usually issued within the last 3 months), and are neatly organized.
  3. Submit In-Person: Applications for Permanent Residency must be submitted in person by the applicant or an attorney (with power of attorney) at the regional Immigration Services Bureau (出入国在留管理局) having jurisdiction over your place of residence. Postal applications are not accepted.

Step 3: Review & Confirmation

  1. Acknowledgment & Inquiry: You will receive an application receipt. During the review period (several months), immigration may contact you or your guarantor for additional information or an interview.
  2. Result Notification: The result is communicated via postal mail. You will receive either a Postcard (ハガキ) for approval or a Letter for denial.
  3. If Approved: Bring the notification, passport, residence card, and a fee stamp (収入印紙) of 8,000 JPY (Please verify with official sources) to your Immigration Bureau to have your residence card updated with the new status.
  4. If Denied: The letter will state the reason. You may re-apply after addressing the deficiencies, but there is no formal appeal process against the decision.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the minimum residency period? A1: The standard requirement is 10 years of continuous residence, with at least 5 years on a work or other non-temporary status. However, significant reductions apply for spouses of Japanese/PR holders (3 years of marriage, 1 year in Japan) and Highly Skilled Professionals (as little as 1 year).

Q2: Can I apply if I have unpaid pension or health insurance premiums? A2: No. Full compliance with public social insurance contributions is a critical requirement. You must resolve all arrears and obtain official payment certificates before applying.

Q3: Who can be my guarantor? A3: Your guarantor must be a Japanese national or a Permanent Resident who is socially and financially reliable. They are often an employer, friend, or family member (spouse). They assume responsibility for your obligations under immigration law.

Q4: Does changing jobs during the application affect the process? A4: Yes. You must report any change in employment or affiliation to Immigration. A change that negatively impacts your perceived financial stability may affect the assessment.

Q5: Can I travel overseas while my application is being processed? A5: Yes, but you must have a valid re-entry permit (みなし再入国許可 or a special re-entry permit) before leaving. Departing without one voids your application and your residence status.

Q6: Is there an income threshold? A6: There is no fixed published number. Immigration assesses whether your household income is stable and sufficient to lead a normal life in Japan without risk of public assistance. This varies by family size and circumstances. Please verify with official sources or consult a professional.

Q7: What happens if my residence card expires during processing? A7: You must renew your current residence status as usual. The permanent residency application is separate. Maintain your valid status throughout the process.

Q8: Are there language or integration requirements? A8: There is no formal language test. However, your integration into society, including efforts to respect Japanese customs and social order, is considered part of the "good conduct" requirement.

6. Risks & Compliance

  • Accuracy is Paramount: Providing false information or forged documents will result in application denial, revocation of status if discovered later, deportation, and future bans on entry.
  • Status Maintenance: You are responsible for maintaining the validity of your current residence status until the permanent residency is granted.
  • No Right to Approval: Meeting the basic requirements does not guarantee approval. The ISA has broad discretionary power.
  • Professional Advice: Due to the complexity, many applicants seek assistance from licensed administrative scriveners (行政書士) specializing in immigration.
  • Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Immigration laws and procedures are subject to change. Always confirm the latest requirements directly with the official Immigration Services Agency or a qualified legal professional before applying.

7. References & Sources

8. Related Topics

  • Visa & Status of Residence: Explanation of different visa categories in Japan.
  • Certificate of Eligibility (COE): The process for obtaining initial permission to land in Japan with a residence status.
  • Residence Card (在留カード): Usage, obligations, and renewal procedures.
  • Re-entry Permit: Rules for temporarily leaving Japan while maintaining residence status.
  • Naturalization (帰化): The process of acquiring Japanese citizenship.
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