How to obtain permanent residence in Japan

日本の永住権（永住ビザ）取得ガイド【2026年10月改定対応】

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
日本に10年以上継続して居住し、そのうち5年以上は合法的な就労ビザにより勤務している必要があります。一時的な出国は可能ですが、1年に200日以上海外に滞在していると不利になる場合があります。日本人または永住者と結婚している場合、「結婚期間が3年以上」かつ「日本に1年以上在住」で申請可能です。 ただし、2027年4月1日以降の申請からは「結婚期間5年以上」かつ「日本に3年以上在住」に変わります。

2. status of residence 現在お持ちの在留資格が最長の在留期間（現在は5年）である必要があります。2027年3月31日までの申請では「3年」も最長の在留期間として扱われます。1年のビザでは申請できません。

3. livelihood requirements 世帯収入が、世帯人数に応じた日本人世帯の平均以上を継続して満たしていることが必要です（2026年10月改定ガイドライン、2026年4月1日以降の申請に適用）。以前のような「年収300万円」といった固定の目安ではなく、家族滞在の家族のアルバイト収入は世帯収入に含めません。将来受け取る年金の水準も確認されます。

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)

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.

※本記事は2026年10月改定の永住許可ガイドラインを反映して更新しています。