How to obtain permanent residence in Japan

Complete Guide to Obtaining a Permanent Resident Visa in Japan (Permanent Resident Visa) [Latest Edition for 2025].

For foreigners who are in Japan for a long period of time or wish to have a stable status of residence,permanent residenceis a status of residence with very significant advantages. In this article, we will discuss the conditions for applying for permanent residence, the application process, advantages and disadvantages, and even compare it to naturalization,Comprehensive Guide to Permanent Resident Visas in JapanWe will deliver the

Table of Contents

• What is permanent residence?
• Application Requirements for Permanent Residence in Japan
• Application Procedures for Permanent Residence in Japan
• Points to note when applying
• Advantages of Permanent Residency
• Disadvantages and Cautions for Permanent Residency
• Difference from naturalization (acquisition of Japanese nationality)
• Summary and expert advice

What is permanent residence?

Permanent residence (permanent resident visa) is the right to live in JapanThe only status of residence with no expiration date or activity restrictionsIt is. Once you obtain permanent residence in Japan, you will be able to renew your visa and work in Japan without any restrictions on your occupation.Indefinite residenceIn addition, it will enable them to start their own businesses, work on the side, and change jobs. In addition, it will allow for more freedom in starting a business, working on the side, or changing jobs, and will also have a positive impact on the residency status of spouses and children.

Application Requirements for Permanent Residence in Japan

1. residential history
You must have resided in Japan continuously for at least 10 years and worked in Japan for at least 5 of those years on a legal work visa. Temporary departure from Japan is allowed, but it may be disadvantageous if you stay abroad for more than 200 days a year. If you are married to a Japanese national or permanent resident, you may apply for a visa if you have been "married for at least 3 years" and "resided in Japan for at least 1 year.

2. status of residence
The period of validity of the current status of residence must be at least three years. 1-year visas are not accepted.

3. livelihood requirements
The applicant will be screened to determine whether he/she has a stable income, with a minimum annual income of 3 million yen. Not only the applicant's income, but also the income of the entire family is taken into consideration.

4. conduct requirements
Taxes and pensions must be paid on time and there must be no criminal record. A few minor traffic violations are not a problem, but more frequent violations can be detrimental.

5. guarantor
Must be Japanese or a permanent resident. Family members and supervisors/colleagues at work are also acceptable.

Application Procedures for Permanent Residence in Japan

1. Consultation: Check residency history, occupation, family status, etc.
2. Information on required documents: Provides a list of documents for each applicant.
3. Document collection: Prepare on your own or use support services.
4. Preparation of application and substantiation documents: Letters of reasons and explanations can be prepared by specialists on your behalf.
5. Application Representation: Gyoseishoshi Lawyer will apply on your behalf to the Immigration Bureau.
6. Examination: It takes an average of 6 months to a year or more, and additional documents may be requested along the way.
7. Result notification: If approved, your resident card will be changed to that of a permanent resident.

Points to note when applying

• Any discrepancies with previously submitted materials will be cause for disapproval.
• In the case of a Japanese spouse visa, it will be disadvantageous in the examination process if it is believed that the couple will divorce immediately after obtaining permanent residence.
• Pension and tax delinquencies and criminal records must be resolved in advance.

Advantages of Permanent Residency

• No expiration date: No need to renew visa (Residence card is renewed every 7 years)
• Freedom of profession: Free to start your own business, work on the side, or change jobs
• Preferential loan approval: Equal treatment with Japanese in bank examinations
• Preferential family residency status: Spouse and children can also change to a more advantageous visa
• Can stay after divorce: No need to return to Japan after losing spouse visa

Disadvantages and Cautions for Permanent Residency

• His nationality remains foreign: No suffrage, possible deportation
• There will no longer be a special exception for highly specialized positions: May not be possible for parents to accompany, etc.
• Obligation to renew residence card: Renewal every 7 years, with obligation to carry at all times

Difference from naturalization (acquisition of Japanese nationality)

(data) item	permanent residence	naturalization
nationality	Maintains mother's nationality	Acquired Japanese citizenship
Visa requirements	necessary	unnecessary
franchise	nashi (Pyrus pyrifolia, esp. var. culta)	ant
dual nationality	Possible in some countries	Not possible (Japan requires waiver)
Possible deportation	ant	nashi (Pyrus pyrifolia, esp. var. culta)
passport	Passport of home country	Japanese Passport

Summary and expert advice

Permanent residence is a very beneficial status for those who wish to stay in Japan for a stable, long-term period of time. However, it is important to proceed strategically with a specialist, as an application that is not well prepared or without a proper understanding of the conditions may be denied.

Horiuchi Administrative Scrivener Office, Shinjuku-ku, TokyoWe are responsible for handling everything from preliminary consultation to application for permanent residence on behalf of our clients. Comparative consultation with naturalization is also available. Please feel free to contact us.

*This article is based on the latest information available as of 2025.