What is permanent residence? The requirements and how the procedure works

This article is a translation of the Japanese original. Where the two differ, the Japanese version prevails. Read the Japanese original（日本語版を読む）

What is permanent residence?

It is a status that lets you live in Japan permanently.

Once permanent residence is granted, there is no longer a limit on your period of stay in Japan, and you can live and work freely.

What changes once you have it?

You no longer need to renew your period of stay, and the restrictions on work are lifted.

• Stay with no time limit — You no longer need to renew your period of stay
• Freedom to work — You can work with no restriction on the type of job or the form of employment
• Standing in society — Your standing in society improves; for example, it can become easier to take out a home loan
• Having your family with you — You can bring your spouse and your children to Japan

What are the requirements?

There are 4: good conduct, being able to make an independent living, being in the interests of Japan, and continuous residence.

1. Good conduct
   You have no criminal record and you observe Japanese laws and regulations.
2. Being able to make an independent living
   You have enough income and can lead a stable life.
3. Being in the interests of Japan
   Your permanent residence is recognised as being in the interests of Japan.
4. Continuous residence
   In principle, you have lived in Japan continuously for at least 10 years.

There are, however, exceptions. People such as the spouses of Japanese nationals or of permanent residents, and people who have made a contribution to Japan, may be able to apply without 10 years or more of residence.

What the requirement to be in the interests of Japan contains, and which documents you need, are explained in more detail in What are the requirements for permanent residence, and what documents do I need?

How does the procedure work?

You prepare the documents and apply at the 地方出入国在留管理局. Screening takes from several months to about 1 year.

1. Preparing the required documents
   The application form, your passport, proof of income, a copy of your residence record (住民票), and so on.
2. Submitting the application
   You submit it to the 地方出入国在留管理局 (Regional Immigration Services Bureau).
3. Screening
   This may take from several months to about 1 year.
4. Permission

Is there anything to watch out for?

Screening is strict, and preparing the documents takes time.

• Screening is strict — Even when you meet the requirements, the application may be denied
• Preparing the documents — Many documents are needed, and preparing them takes time

Beyond this, there are many detailed conditions about paying taxes and pension contributions. Please talk to us once, including about whether you meet the requirements in your own case.

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Articles

• What are the requirements for permanent residence, and what documents do I need?
• Why are applications for permanent residence denied, and what should I do when applying again?
• What changes in my rights and duties when I obtain permanent residence?
• What changes when you get a permanent residence visa, and what do you need to watch out for?

This article provides general information. Immigration rules change, and outcomes depend on individual circumstances. Please check the Immigration Services Agency website or consult a qualified specialist.
This page is a translation of the Japanese original. Where the two differ, the Japanese version prevails.