What is the "Permanent Resident" Status?

"Permanent Residency" is a residency status that allows foreign nationals to stay in Japan for an unlimited period of time.

In this article, we will introduce the conditions for obtaining a permanent resident status and how to apply for it.

1)Overview of the System

The "Permanent Resident" status allows a person to live in Japan without changing nationality. Once acquired, there are no restrictions on the period of stay or the activities they can engage in, providing greater freedom. However, even permanent residents have an expiration date on their resident card. Failure to renew the card before the expiration date can result in being considered an illegal resident in Japan.

Obtaining "Permanent Resident" status requires a more thorough examination compared to changing regular residency status.

2)Requirements for Applicants

A: As a general rule, the applicant must have continuously resided in Japan for 10 years or more. However, during this period, they should have been in Japan for at least 5 years with a work status (excluding "Technical Intern Training" and "Specially Designated Technical Skill 1" statuses) or residence status.

B: The applicant must not have received fines or imprisonment and should have fulfilled their public obligations, such as tax payment, pension and medical insurance premiums, and other obligations specified in the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act.

C: The applicant must be staying in Japan under the maximum period of stay allowed for their current residence status according to Appended Table 2 of the Enforcement Regulations of the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act.

D: The applicant should not pose a risk from a public health perspective.

Source: Ministry of Justice｜Guidelines for Permanent Residence Permits Special Provisions Concerning 10-year Residency in Principle (Revised May 31, 2049)

3)Method of Acquisition

An application for permission may be filed by:

　①The foreign national themselves

　②Legal representative

　　The legal representative is the parent of the foreign national if they are a minor.

　③Application agent

　　An agent, such as a lawyer or administrative scrivener, can apply on behalf of the foreign national or their representative with permission

Next, it's important to note that "Permanent Resident" status cannot be acquired immediately after arriving in Japan. As a general rule, one must stay in Japan for 10 years or more with another status and then apply for permanent resident status from that current status.

The 10-year period may be shortened depending on specific conditions. Please refer to the "Guidelines for Permanent Resident Permit" issued by the Immigration and Residency Management Agency.

Obtaining and Preparing Necessary Documents for Application

To obtain "Permanent Resident" status, many documents need to be submitted, and the required documents vary depending on the applicant's status and qualifications. The documents to be submitted are listed on the Immigration Bureau's website.

Please check here for more information.

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Apply for Permanent Residence at the Nearest Immigration Office

Gather all the necessary documents and apply for permanent residence at the nearest immigration office. Ensure that your documents are prepared correctly to avoid application rejection. During the examination period, you may be asked to provide additional documents or information, so be ready to respond promptly.

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Notification of Result

Once approved, you will receive your resident card at the immigration office, and the process will be complete.

"Naturalization" is often confused with "Permanent Resident" status. "Naturalization" refers to the acquisition of Japanese nationality, where a foreign national becomes a Japanese citizen, and they are no longer subject to the residency status system. They gain all the rights and benefits of Japanese nationals, including social security.

On the other hand, "Permanent Resident" status does not change one's nationality but allows one to continue residing in Japan as a foreigner.

The process of applying and being approved for naturalization is even more challenging than obtaining permanent resident status. Additionally, Japan does not allow dual citizenship, so acquiring Japanese citizenship means giving up one's original citizenship. Regaining original citizenship after naturalization can be very difficult in some countries, so careful consideration is required.

For more information on naturalization, please refer to this page.

5)Consideration Regarding Overseas Transfers and Permanent Resident Status Applications

If an individual is transferred overseas for an extended period, they will have to return their residency status in Japan, which will reset the number of years of residence required to apply for permanent resident status. Employers considering overseas transfers should confirm the employee's intention regarding obtaining permanent resident status.