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）
A 定住者 visa application starts with gathering information and looking at your own situation. Then come the documents, the application form, filing at the Regional Immigration Services Bureau, the screening, and finally receiving your 在留カード (Residence Card). Preparing early, filling in the documents accurately and keeping in proper contact with the Regional Immigration Services Bureau all matter.
A guide for people who are thinking about a 定住者 visa but do not know where to start.
Start by gathering information and looking at your own situation.
There are several kinds of 定住者 visa, and who may apply depends on the individual case. First, work out which kind you may fall under — the child from a previous marriage of the spouse of a Japanese national, a person of Japanese descent, the spouse of a 定住者, a foreign national who is supported by someone here, and so on — and then get a picture in advance of the requirements that apply to everyone, the requirements for your own case, the documents needed and the flow of the application. Check the latest information on the website of the Regional Immigration Services Bureau, and it is also suggested that you look at the websites and advice services of specialists such as a certified administrative procedures legal specialist (gyoseishoshi).
A wide range of documents is needed — on your civil status, your income and assets, and your housing — so start early.
Documents in another language always need a Japanese translation, with the translator's name. Documents issued by public bodies must be within their period of validity, and as a rule you submit the originals. Always check that nothing is missing before you file.
Write neatly in block characters, accurately and with nothing untrue.
Writing that is hard to read takes longer to check and can be misunderstood, so write neatly in block characters. Where an item does not apply to you, write "not applicable" rather than leaving a blank. Correct mistakes with a double line and your seal; do not use correction tape or fluid. A false statement is not only a reason for denial but can also carry a penalty, so never make one. Where there is a questionnaire, answer it honestly and in concrete terms. If you are unsure, it is best to prepare the papers with the help of a specialist, a certified administrative procedures legal specialist (gyoseishoshi).
You file at the Regional Immigration Services Bureau with jurisdiction over your area, the application is screened, and a 在留カード is issued.
Once the form and the documents are ready, file at the Regional Immigration Services Bureau with jurisdiction over your area. You can file at the counter, online, or through a representative such as a gyoseishoshi. After the application is accepted, it is screened. During the screening you may be asked for further documents or for an explanation, so deal with any such request quickly. When the screening is finished you are notified of the result, and if it is granted you go to the Regional Immigration Services Bureau by the date given and receive your new 在留カード. Check there and then that everything on the card is correct.
Gather information and look at your own situation. Start by working out which kind of 定住者 visa you fall under, and checking the requirements that apply to everyone and those that apply to you.
No. Documents in another language always need a Japanese translation, with the translator's name.
It is not only a reason for denial but can also carry a penalty, so you must never do it.
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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.