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）
定住者 is a status of residence that lets you live in Japan without limits on the work you may do. Unlike permanent residence, however, it has a period of stay and must be renewed. The period granted is 5 years, 3 years, 1 year or 6 months, or a period designated individually by the Minister of Justice (not exceeding 5 years). You can apply to renew from 3 months before the expiration date of your period of stay.
A status of residence that lets people with a deep connection to Japan live here without limits on the work they may do.
This is a status of residence for foreign nationals who have a deep connection to Japan, mainly people of Japanese descent. Once you hold it, you can live in Japan without limits on the work you may do.
There is no limit on the kind of work you may do, and you can bring your family to Japan.
5 years, 3 years, 1 year or 6 months, or a period designated individually by the Minister of Justice.
The period of stay for 定住者 is decided by the Minister of Justice, taking each person's circumstances into account. You are granted one of the following: 5 years, 3 years, 1 year or 6 months, or a period designated individually by the Minister of Justice (not exceeding 5 years).
When you first obtain the status, a period of stay of 1 year or 3 years is often granted. After that, if there is no problem with how you have lived in Japan or with your conduct, a longer period may be granted at renewal.
A 在留資格認定証明書 is issued in Japan first, and the visa is then applied for in the home country.
The requirements and documents for people of Japanese descent are explained in The 定住者 visa for 2nd- and 3rd-generation descendants of Japanese emigrants: what are the requirements and documents?
From 3 months before the expiration date of your period of stay.
Unlike permanent residence, 定住者 must be renewed. Always go through the renewal procedure before your period of stay ends.
You can renew from 3 months before the expiration date of your period of stay. Gather the documents you need and file the application at the Regional Immigration Services Bureau.
If you fail to renew, you may end up staying in Japan unlawfully. The documents needed for renewal are explained in What is the procedure for renewing a 定住者 visa, and what documents are needed?
The conditions, the time the screening takes, and never applying on facts that are not true.
You can also check the details of the system on the Immigration Services Agency of Japan website.
No. 定住者 has a period of stay and must be renewed. Permanent residence has no limit on the period of stay.
One of the following: 5 years, 3 years, 1 year or 6 months, or a period designated individually by the Minister of Justice (not exceeding 5 years). The first time, 1 year or 3 years is common.
From 3 months before the expiration date of your period of stay.
No. You can work with no limit on the type of job or the form of employment.
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Get a free consultationThis 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.