Application Filing for Permanent Residency in Japan

1. Overview

Applying for permanent residency (永住許可, eijū kyoka) in Japan is a significant immigration procedure that allows foreign nationals to reside in Japan indefinitely without visa renewal requirements, while maintaining their original nationality. Unlike other statuses of residence, permanent residency is not tied to specific activities (such as work or study) and offers greater stability and flexibility. The process is administered by the Immigration Services Agency of Japan (ISA) and requires applicants to demonstrate long-term, stable residence, good conduct, and financial independence. Obtaining permanent residency is a key milestone for those planning to settle long-term in Japan, as it removes many restrictions associated with temporary visa statuses.

2. Applicable Objects & Scenarios

This application applies to foreign nationals residing in Japan under a valid status of residence who wish to settle in the country 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 or children of Japanese nationals, permanent residents, or special permanent residents who meet specific eligibility criteria.
• Highly skilled professionals who qualify under the point-based system for accelerated processing.
• Individuals recognized as refugees.
• Those contributing to Japan’s interests in diplomatic, social, economic, or cultural fields.

Applicants must currently hold a valid status of residence with a sufficiently long duration (typically 3 years or 1 year at the time of application).

3. Core Conclusions

• Eligibility is strict: Applicants must meet requirements related to duration of stay, conduct, financial stability, and contribution to Japanese society.
• Processing is lengthy: Review times are generally several months to over a year; applicants should plan accordingly.
• No guarantee of approval: Meeting basic requirements does not guarantee approval, as decisions are made comprehensively.
• Continuous residence is critical: Applicants must maintain a valid status and avoid long periods outside Japan during the required residency period.
• Post-approval obligations: Permanent residents must still carry their residence card, notify address changes, and comply with Japanese laws, including tax obligations.

4. Procedures & Steps

Step 1: Preparation

• Confirm eligibility based on your current residence status and duration of stay.
• Gather required documents, which typically include:
  • Application for Permission for Permanent Residence (form available on ISA website).
  • Passport and residence card.
  • Documents proving financial stability (tax certificates, employment verification, bank statements).
  • Documents related to residence (jūminhyō, residence record).
  • Letter of guarantee from a Japanese national or permanent resident (including guarantor’s proof of income/tax payment).
  • Statement outlining reasons for applying.
  • Additional documents depending on applicant category (e.g., proof of points for highly skilled professionals).
• Ensure all documents are recent, properly formatted, and translated if necessary.

Step 2: Application & Submission

• Submit the application in person at the regional immigration office with jurisdiction over your place of residence.
• Pay the application fee (revenue stamp). Please verify the exact fee with official sources as it may change.
• Receive an application receipt slip (shinsei juri shōmeisho) for tracking.

Step 3: Review & Confirmation

• The ISA reviews the application, which may involve additional inquiries or document requests.
• If approved, you will be notified by post to visit the immigration office.
• Bring your passport and residence card to receive the permanent resident permit seal/sticker in your passport and an updated residence card.
• If denied, you will receive a notice with the reason; reapplication is possible after addressing issues.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How long do I need to live in Japan before applying? A: Generally, 10 years of continuous residence, with at least 5 years on a work or family-related status. Exceptions apply for spouses of Japanese nationals/permanent residents (1–3 years), highly skilled professionals (1–3 years under points system), and others.

Q2: Can I leave Japan during the application process? A: Yes, but you must maintain a valid re-entry permit. Extended absences during the review may affect eligibility.

Q3: Does permanent residency expire? A: No, but it can be revoked for reasons such as long-term absence without re-entry permission, fraud, or serious criminal conduct.

Q4: Can my family apply with me? A: Each family member must apply individually. Spouses and children may qualify under shorter residency requirements if the main applicant is a Japanese national or permanent resident.

Q5: Do I need a guarantor? A: Yes, a guarantor (Japanese national or permanent resident) is required to co-sign the application, affirming your conduct and stability.

Q6: How long does processing take? A: Typically 4 to 10 months, but can extend beyond a year depending on case complexity and office workload.

Q7: Will my taxes be checked? A: Yes. Immigration thoroughly reviews tax payment history (national, local, and resident taxes) as part of the financial stability assessment.

Q8: Can I apply if I have a minor criminal record? A: Any criminal record or violation of Japanese laws may negatively impact the application. Serious offenses typically lead to denial.

6. Risks & Compliance

• Accuracy is mandatory: False statements or forged documents result in denial, deportation, and future bans.
• Status maintenance: You must maintain a valid residence status throughout the process; expired status invalidates eligibility.
• No work restriction changes: Permanent residency does not automatically grant unrestricted work rights in regulated professions (e.g., medicine, law).
• Residence obligations: After approval, prolonged absence from Japan without a valid re-entry permit may lead to residency loss.
• Disclaimer: Immigration policies are subject to change. Always verify requirements with official sources or legal experts before applying.

7. References & Sources

• Immigration Services Agency of Japan (ISA): Permanent Residence
• ISA Application Forms and Guides: Forms Download
• Ministry of Justice Japan: Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act
• ISA Office Locator: Regional Immigration Offices

8. Related Topics

• Status of Residence Changes
• Highly Skilled Professional Visa
• Spouse or Child of Japanese National Visa
• Re-entry Permits and Special Re-entry Permission
• Japanese Naturalization Procedures
• Residence Card and Address Registration Procedures