20 Q&As on Applying for Permanent Residence in Japan｜From application requirements to actual essential points

Table of Contents

• Introduction.
• 20 Q&As for Permanent Residence Application
• Summary of key points for permanent residence application
• Why do we recommend consulting a specialist?
• Summary｜Free Consultation

1. application for permanent residence, we often receive questions like the following

I wonder if I can apply..." "How much of the paperwork do I need to prepare?" What if my application is rejected?

For those who have such concerns, we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions about permanent residence in Japan in a Q&A format.

2. 20 Q&As on Applying for Permanent Residence in Japan

Q1: What is the difference between permanent residence and residence permit?

Permanent residence allows you to live in Japan indefinitely without renewal.

Q2: How many years must I have been in Japan before I can apply?

As a general rule, the applicant must reside in Japan legally for at least 10 years.

Q3. what are the exceptions to apply for less than 10 years?

• Spouse of Japanese national or permanent resident: Married for at least 3 years + Resident in Japan for at least 1 year
• Permanent resident: Resident in Japan for at least 5 years
• Highly qualified personnel: 70 points → 3 years, 80 points → 1 year to apply
• Refugee status holders: residence for more than 5 years
• Japanese child: Residence in Japan for more than 1 year

All of them are subject to tax payment and social insurance.

Q4.How long do I need to stay in Japan?

It is desirable to have been in Japan for at least 3 years.

Q5. How much more than annual income is required?

The standard is at least 3 million yen per year for a single person.

Q6: Is it disadvantageous to have a period of non-subscription to social insurance?

Health insurance and pension enrollment records are very important, and failure to pay within two years will likely result in disallowance.

Q7. do i need to have Japanese language skills?

Not required for permanent residence applications (required for naturalization applications).

Q8. can my family members apply together?

It is possible. However, each family member will be screened individually.

Q9. can I apply if I have even a small tax delinquency?

The application should be filed only after full payment is made, as any arrears will be disadvantageous.

Q10. will a criminal record disqualify me?

Please note that even minor violations can affect the screening process.

Q11. May I leave the country during the application process?

If you obtain a re-entry permit, you may leave the country.

Q12. How long does the screening process take?

Usually 6 months to 1 year.

Q13. How will I receive the results?

It will be sent to the applicant's address by mail or by notification.

Q14. what happens if the application is not approved?

You can continue your stay as long as your status of residence remains. You can reapply after improvement.

Q15. Can I apply on my own behalf?

Application can be handled by Gyoseishoshi Scriveners and others.

Q16. What should I pay attention to after obtaining permanent residence?

If you leave Japan for more than one year, you may lose your permanent resident status.

Q17. can I change my name during the application process?

The renaming should preferably be done before the application is submitted or after the review is completed, as it may affect the review process.

Q18. what if I move during the application process?

Be sure to submit a change of address form to the immigration office and the local government office.

Q19. Can I change jobs?

Changing jobs is possible, but a significant drop in income may affect the screening process.

Q20. Will it be easier to bring in family members once I obtain Permanent Resident status?

Yes, permanent residents are more easily invited for family visas.

3. summary of key points for permanent residence application

• Social insurance enrollment and payment records are of utmost importance.
• Stable income and residential history.
• No history of past violations or tax delinquency

Reasons for recommending consultation with a specialist

Individual preparation, such as preparing documents and organizing requirements, is prone to omissions.
If prepared accurately under the guidance of an administrative lawyer, you can increase your reputation and avoid the risk of disapproval.

Introduction of Horiuchi Gyoseishoshi Lawyer Office

Official introduction pagefor more information.▶ See our office introduction page

Horiuchi Gyoseishoshi Lawyer Office (Shinjuku, Tokyo)
Attn: Gyoseishoshi Scrivener Yukiko Horiuchi
Affiliation: Tokyo Gyoseishoshi Lawyers Association, Shinjuku Branch
Tokyo Immigration and Residency Management Bureau, Application Agency Gyoseishoshi Scrivener
Member of Foreign Employment Support Organization (FESO)
Member of AIL (Alien Visa Experts Network)

Access:
5-minute walk from Higashi Shinjuku Station on the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line
8-minute walk from Shin-Okubo Station on the JR Yamanote Line
12-minute walk from Okubo Station on the JR Chuo and Sobu Lines