How to Apply for Permanent Residency in Japan: Complete Guide & Requirements

Why Apply for Japan Permanent Residency?

Obtaining permanent residency in Japan allows you to live and work in the country indefinitely without the need for visa renewals. This status grants more stability and freedom, making it ideal for long-term residents. However, the application process involves strict eligibility criteria and documentation requirements.

This guide covers everything you need to know about applying for permanent residency in Japan, including key requirements, necessary documents, and potential obstacles.

Eligibility Criteria for Permanent Residency in Japan

1. Length of Stay in Japan

Work Visa Holders: Must have resided in Japan continuously for at least 10 years, with at least 5 years under a work visa.
Spouse Visa Holders: Must have been in a legally recognized marriage for at least 3 years and have lived in Japan for at least 1 year.

2. Validity of Current Visa

At the time of application, your residence card must show a remaining period of at least 3 years.

3. Primary Residence in Japan

Long absences from Japan can negatively impact your application.
If you have been outside Japan for 6 months or longer at once, you must wait at least 6 months after returning before applying.

4. Tax & Social Security Compliance

Resident Tax (住民税): Paid in full and on time for the past 5 years (work visa) or 3 years (spouse visa).
National Taxes (国税): No outstanding payments; all due taxes must be settled.
Health Insurance & Pension: Must have been paid on time for at least 2 years.
Company Employees: Must be enrolled in the correct insurance scheme (社会保険).
Business Owners: Must ensure proper tax compliance for both personal and company obligations.

5. Stable Income

Annual income must be at least 3 million yen for the past 5 consecutive years before applying.
If you have dependents, the income requirement increases accordingly (e.g., ¥3.6 million for 2 dependents).
The income must be from legal, visa-compliant activities.
Rental income, stock dividends, or earnings from overseas sources may not always be counted toward the income requirement unless properly documented and taxed in Japan.

6. Law-Abiding Behavior

You must have no criminal record, no significant traffic violations in the past 5 years, and no history of visa violations.
Spouse visa applicants must ensure their family members also meet this requirement.

7. Genuine Marriage (for Spouse Visa Holders)

Your marriage must be genuine and ongoing, not a marriage of convenience.
Immigration authorities may conduct background checks, including residence visits and financial reviews.

8. Correct Documentation & Reporting

All immigration-related reports and updates must have been properly submitted (e.g., job changes, address updates).
Any history of false statements or incorrect filings may lead to rejection.

9. Guarantor Requirement (身元保証人)

When applying for Japan Permanent Residency, you must provide a Guarantor (身元保証人, Mimoto Hosyonin) who will vouch for your stability and law-abiding status in Japan.
Your guarantor must be a Japanese citizen or Permanent Resident and should be someone who knows you personally, such as a family member, employer, or friend.

💡 Important: The guarantor does not bear any legal or financial responsibility for the applicant. Their role is limited to confirming that the applicant is following Japanese laws and fulfilling tax and social security obligations.

🔗 For details on who qualifies as a guarantor and how to prepare the required documents, see:
➡ Guarantor for Japan Permanent Residency: Everything You Need to Know

Common Issues That Can Affect Your Application

1. Criminal Records & Violations

✅ If you have a criminal record, your eligibility depends on the severity and time elapsed:

Serious offenses (prison sentences) → Must wait 10 years before applying.
Lesser offenses (fines, minor convictions) → Must wait 5 years.
Suspended sentences → Must wait 5 years after completion.

❌ Major violations such as employment-related visa fraud, drug-related crimes, or human trafficking may permanently disqualify you.

✅ If you were arrested but not convicted:

Case dropped (insufficient evidence) → No issue.
Deferred prosecution (起訴猶予) → May negatively affect your application.

2. Traffic Violations

Minor violations (e.g., speeding tickets) are usually fine unless they occur frequently.
License suspension or excessive fines could affect approval.
The Immigration Bureau may review your driving record over the last 5 years.

3. Visa Expiration During Application Process

If your current residence status expires while your permanent residency application is under review, you must apply for a residence status extension.
No special grace period is granted as in status change applications.

4. Job or Marital Status Change During Application Process

If you change jobs or your spouse changes while your application is being processed, you must notify the Immigration Bureau.
Such changes are generally considered negative factors and may affect approval.

Application Process for Permanent Residency

Gather Required Documents:
- Include your passport, residence card, tax records, employment certificate, proof of income, and a letter of recommendation. The document list may vary depending on your case.
- See also : Document Checklist for Permanent Residency Application
Submit Application:
- Submit your application to the regional immigration bureau. Ensure all documents are complete and current.
Application Review:
- The review can take several months to over a year. The immigration office may request additional documents or an interview.
Approval and Notification:
- If approved, you will receive notification and your permanent residency. If not, you may be given reasons for rejection and advice for reapplying.

Application Processing Time & Approval Rate

Processing takes approximately 6 to 12 months.
Approval rates are higher for stable, tax-compliant applicants.
Incomplete applications or past violations can significantly delay or result in denial.

Key Considerations for Permanent Residency

Re-Entry Permits:
- Even as a permanent resident, you need a re-entry permit if leaving Japan for more than 1 year.
Naturalization vs. Permanent Residency:
- Permanent residency allows you to live and work indefinitely but does not grant voting rights or the ability to obtain a Japanese passport. Naturalization requires you to renounce your previous nationality.

Ready to Apply for Permanent Residency in Japan?

Navigating the PR application process can be complex, but you don’t have to do it alone. Our expert immigration specialists provide personalized support to ensure your application meets all the requirements.

📍 Learn more about our services: Tanabe Immigration Office
📩 Get a free consultation today: Contact Us