This guide is written for foreign residents who want to apply for Permanent Residency (PR) in Japan. PR allows you to live and work in Japan without visa renewals and provides almost all the rights of a Japanese citizen (except voting rights). This guide will help you understand the eligibility requirements, application process, documents needed, and common challenges to ensure a successful application.
1. What is Japan Permanent Residency (PR)?
Permanent Residency (永住権 – Eijuken) is a long-term residency status that allows foreign nationals to live in Japan without restrictions on employment, residency duration, or visa renewals. Unlike regular visas, PR status is indefinite and provides greater freedom and security. However, it’s not automatic—you must meet strict criteria and undergo a detailed application process.
2. Benefits of Japan Permanent Residency
- No Visa Renewal Required
- Once you obtain PR, you no longer need to renew your visa every 1–5 years.
- Freedom to Work in Any Field
- You can work in any industry or profession, including freelance or business activities, without needing specific visa categories (e.g., work, spouse, or student visa).
- Easier Access to Loans and Credit
- Many Japanese banks offer home loans and business loans only to permanent residents or Japanese citizens.
- Simplified Immigration Process for Family
- Easier to bring family members to Japan or sponsor them for long-term residency.
- Almost Full Legal Rights
- You have almost the same rights as a Japanese citizen, except the right to vote or hold public office.
3. Eligibility Criteria for Japan PR
The eligibility criteria depend on your visa type and length of stay. Below are the detailed requirements:
General Eligibility (10-Year Rule)
- 10 years of continuous residence in Japan, including:
- At least 5 years on a work visa (e.g., Engineer, Specialist in Humanities, Skilled Labor, etc.).
- No significant legal violations (e.g., criminal record or unpaid taxes).
- Stable income and financial independence (minimum annual income: ¥3 million or more).
- Full payment of taxes, health insurance, and pension contributions for at least the past 3 years.
Accelerated Eligibility for Highly Skilled Professionals
If you qualify under the Highly Skilled Professional Points System, you may be eligible for PR in just 1 to 3 years.
- 1 Year: If your score is 80 points or higher.
- 3 Years: If your score is 70 points or higher.
The scoring system considers factors such as educational qualifications, work experience, annual income, age, and Japanese language skills.
Example:
- Annual income over ¥10 million = 40 points
- Master’s degree = 20 points
- JLPT N1 certification = 15 points
Eligibility for Spouses of Japanese Nationals or Permanent Residents
- You can apply after 1 year of marriage and living in Japan.
- Demonstrate a stable marriage and financial situation.
4. Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Ensure you meet all the eligibility requirements (length of stay, income, tax payments). If you’re unsure about your eligibility, consult an immigration lawyer or visit the Immigration Bureau for advice.
Step 2: Prepare Required Documents
Personal Documents:
- Permanent Residency Application Form
- Passport
- Residence Card (Zairyu Card)
- Recent Photograph (4cm x 3cm)
Financial Documents:
- Certificate of Employment
- Proof of annual income (Tax Certificates for the last 3–5 years)
- Bank statements showing financial stability
Tax and Social Insurance Documents:
- Proof of Pension Contributions (Nenkin Techo)
- Proof of Health Insurance Contributions
Guarantor Documents:
- Guarantor Letter (from a Japanese national or PR holder)
- Guarantor’s Certificate of Residence (Juminhyo)
- Guarantor’s Proof of Income
Step 3: Get a Recommendation from a Guarantor
You must have a Japanese guarantor who will vouch for your behavior and financial stability. The guarantor is typically a friend, employer, or family member who is either a Japanese citizen or permanent resident.
Note: The guarantor does not bear financial responsibility for you—they only provide a recommendation.
Step 4: Submit the Application
- Visit your local Regional Immigration Bureau in person.
- Submit your application along with all required documents.
- The Immigration Bureau will give you a receipt for your application.
Step 5: Wait for Processing
Processing can take 6 to 12 months, depending on your case. During this time, the Immigration Bureau may contact you for additional documents or an interview.
5. Common Challenges and Mistakes to Avoid
- Incomplete Documentation: Missing documents are the most common cause of delays and rejections. Double-check your documents before submission.
- Unpaid Taxes or Pension Contributions: Ensure you have no outstanding payments. Even a minor delay in pension or tax payments can lead to rejection.
- No Guarantor: Find a guarantor early to avoid last-minute issues.
- Inadequate Income: Demonstrate financial stability with a stable job and sufficient savings.
6. Processing Time and Fees
- Processing Time: Typically 6–12 months, but it may vary.
- Application Fee: Free (there is no fee for PR applications).
7. Life After Obtaining Permanent Residency
- You’ll receive a new residence card indicating your PR status.
- You no longer need to renew your visa.
- Ensure you do not leave Japan for more than 1 year without a re-entry permit, or you will lose your PR status.
8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How Long Does It Take to Get Permanent Residency?
It typically takes 10 years of continuous residence, but highly skilled professionals and spouses of Japanese nationals may qualify earlier.
2. Can I Apply for Japanese Citizenship After PR?
Yes, but naturalization requires additional steps, including renouncing your original citizenship.
3. Can PR Be Revoked?
Yes, if you commit serious crimes or leave Japan for more than 1 year without a re-entry permit.
Here’s a complete breakdown of how you can qualify for Japan Permanent Residency (PR) within 1 year under the Highly Skilled Professional (HSP) Points System if your score is 80 points or higher. This guide will cover how the scoring system works, the criteria to earn points, and how to calculate your score accurately.
1. What is the Highly Skilled Professional (HSP) Points System?
The HSP Points System is a government initiative that encourages highly skilled foreign professionals to contribute to Japan’s economy. If you meet the required criteria, you are awarded points based on your education, work experience, income, age, language proficiency, and more.
- 80 points or more: Eligible for Permanent Residency (PR) in just 1 year.
- 70–79 points: Eligible for Permanent Residency in 3 years.
Why It’s a Fast Track: Unlike the standard 10-year residency requirement for PR, the HSP track significantly reduces the waiting time if you can achieve a high enough score.
2. How to Calculate Your HSP Points
Here’s a detailed breakdown of how the points are calculated under the Highly Skilled Professional Points System.
(A) Educational Background
| Criteria | Points |
|---|---|
| Doctorate degree | 30 points |
| Master’s degree | 20 points |
| Bachelor’s degree | 10 points |
Example: If you have a Master’s degree, you will earn 20 points.
(B) Work Experience (in a Highly Specialized Field)
| Criteria | Points |
|---|---|
| 10 years or more | 20 points |
| 7–10 years | 15 points |
| 5–7 years | 10 points |
| 3–5 years | 5 points |
Example: If you have 8 years of experience in a specialized field (e.g., IT, engineering), you will earn 15 points.
(C) Annual Income
| Annual Income (before tax) | Points |
|---|---|
| ¥10 million (~$75,000) or more | 40 points |
| ¥9 million–¥10 million | 35 points |
| ¥8 million–¥9 million | 30 points |
| ¥7 million–¥8 million | 25 points |
| ¥6 million–¥7 million | 20 points |
| ¥5 million–¥6 million | 15 points |
Example: If your annual income is ¥10 million or more, you will earn 40 points.
(D) Age
| Age | Points |
|---|---|
| Under 30 | 15 points |
| 30–34 years | 10 points |
| 35–39 years | 5 points |
Example: If you are 32 years old, you will earn 10 points.
(E) Japanese Language Proficiency
| Criteria | Points |
|---|---|
| JLPT N1 (Highest Level) | 15 points |
| JLPT N2 | 10 points |
Example: If you have JLPT N1 certification, you will earn 15 points.
(F) Additional Points (Special Contributions)
| Criteria | Points |
|---|---|
| Engaged in advanced academic research | 15 points |
| Contribution to the growth of a Japanese company | 10 points |
| Working in a specially designated field (e.g., AI, robotics) | 10 points |
3. Sample Calculation (How to Reach 80+ Points)
Let’s calculate a sample scenario:
- Education: Master’s degree = 20 points
- Work Experience: 8 years = 15 points
- Annual Income: ¥10 million = 40 points
- Age: 32 years old = 10 points
- Japanese Language Proficiency: JLPT N1 = 15 points
Total: 100 points
Since the required threshold for Permanent Residency in 1 year is 80 points, this applicant is eligible for the fast-track PR.
4. Steps to Apply for PR Under the 1-Year Track
Step 1: Verify Your Points
Use the official HSP Points Calculation Sheet provided by the Immigration Bureau. Ensure you have supporting documents for every point you claim (e.g., degree certificates, employment contracts, tax certificates).
Step 2: Prepare Documents
You will need additional documents to prove your eligibility for the HSP track:
- HSP Points Calculation Sheet
- Degree Certificates (translated into Japanese if not in English)
- Proof of Income (Tax Certificates, Payslips)
- Employment Certificates and proof of specialized work experience
- Language Proficiency Certificate (e.g., JLPT N1 or N2)
Step 3: Submit Your Application at the Regional Immigration Bureau
- Visit the Immigration Bureau and submit your Permanent Residency application.
- Ensure you inform them that you are applying under the Highly Skilled Professional Track.
Step 4: Wait for Approval
The processing time for HSP applications is typically shorter than the standard route—around 4–6 months.
5. Benefits of Permanent Residency After 1 Year
- No Visa Renewal: Freedom from visa renewals every 1–3 years.
- Employment Flexibility: Switch jobs or start a business without needing a visa change.
- Access to Loans: Easier to obtain home loans or business loans from Japanese banks.
- Sponsoring Family: Sponsor family members for long-term residency.
6. Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Miscalculating Points: Ensure your points are backed by official documents. Immigration officers will verify everything carefully.
- Incomplete Documentation: Missing documents can delay or lead to rejection.
- Unpaid Taxes or Pension Contributions: Ensure you’ve paid all required contributions for at least 3 years.
- Incorrect Japanese Translations: Use professional translation services for non-Japanese documents.
Here’s the complete list of criteria and point weightage for the Japan Highly Skilled Professional (HSP) Points System, which can fast-track your Permanent Residency (PR) application. To qualify for PR in 1 year, you need 80 points or higher. If you have 70–79 points, you qualify for PR in 3 years.
Complete Criteria and Point Weightage for Japan HSP Points System
1. Educational Background (Maximum 30 Points)
Points are awarded based on the highest academic degree you have achieved.
| Criteria | Points |
|---|---|
| Doctorate degree | 30 points |
| Master’s degree | 20 points |
| Bachelor’s degree | 10 points |
2. Work Experience (Maximum 20 Points)
Points are awarded for relevant work experience in a highly specialized field (e.g., IT, engineering, research).
| Years of Experience | Points |
|---|---|
| 10 years or more | 20 points |
| 7–10 years | 15 points |
| 5–7 years | 10 points |
| 3–5 years | 5 points |
3. Annual Income (Maximum 40 Points)
The higher your annual income, the more points you receive. This is one of the key areas to boost your score.
| Annual Income (before tax) | Points |
|---|---|
| ¥10 million (~$75,000) or more | 40 points |
| ¥9 million–¥10 million | 35 points |
| ¥8 million–¥9 million | 30 points |
| ¥7 million–¥8 million | 25 points |
| ¥6 million–¥7 million | 20 points |
| ¥5 million–¥6 million | 15 points |
4. Age (Maximum 15 Points)
Younger professionals earn more points under the HSP system.
| Age | Points |
|---|---|
| Under 30 years old | 15 points |
| 30–34 years old | 10 points |
| 35–39 years old | 5 points |
| 40 years or older | 0 points |
5. Japanese Language Proficiency (Maximum 15 Points)
Points are awarded for passing the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) or equivalent certification.
| Proficiency Level | Points |
|---|---|
| JLPT N1 (Highest Level) | 15 points |
| JLPT N2 | 10 points |
6. Research Achievement and Special Contribution (Maximum 15 Points)
Additional points are awarded for contributions to research or innovation and work in priority areas.
| Criteria | Points |
|---|---|
| Engaged in advanced academic research | 15 points |
| Contribution to Japanese business growth | 10 points |
| Working in a specially designated field (AI, robotics, etc.) | 10 points |
7. Highly Specialized Work Category (Bonus Points)
If you work in advanced academic research, technical fields, or business management, you may qualify for bonus points.
- Advanced Academic Research = Additional 15 points
- Highly Skilled Technical Work = Additional 10 points
- Business Management = Additional 10 points
Sample Points Calculation
Here’s a sample calculation for someone who may qualify for Permanent Residency in 1 year:
- Education: Master’s degree → 20 points
- Work Experience: 10 years → 20 points
- Annual Income: ¥10 million → 40 points
- Age: 32 years old → 10 points
- Japanese Language Proficiency: JLPT N1 → 15 points
Total Points: 105 points
This person easily qualifies for Permanent Residency within 1 year.
How to Calculate and Verify Your Points
- Use the Official Points Calculation Sheet provided by the Japanese Immigration Bureau.
- Ensure that each claimed point is backed by official documents (e.g., degree certificates, tax statements, employment history).
- Submit the calculation sheet along with your Permanent Residency application.
Important Notes
- Points are cumulative, so you can combine points from multiple criteria.
- Income and experience are critical factors—these areas offer the highest point potential.
- Highly Specialized Fields (AI, robotics, biotechnology) often receive additional priority consideration.
To apply for Japan Permanent Residency (PR) under the 10-year continuous residence requirement, you must provide comprehensive documentation that proves your residency history, financial stability, tax compliance, and good behavior during your stay. Below is the complete list of required documents, categorized for easy reference.
1. Personal Identification and Residence Documentation
These documents prove your identity and continuous residence in Japan for at least 10 years.
- Permanent Residency Application Form (永住許可申請書)
- Available at the Immigration Bureau or online. Ensure all sections are filled out correctly.
- Passport
- Must include all pages showing entry and exit stamps to verify your travel history.
- Residence Card (在留カード – Zairyu Card)
- The front and back copies of your valid Residence Card.
- Ensure that your card has not expired and reflects your current address and visa status.
- Certificate of Residence (住民票 – Juminhyo)
- Issued by your local city hall. Must include details about your address, family members (if applicable), and nationality.
- This document confirms your current registered residence in Japan.
- Past Residence History Records
- If you have changed addresses frequently, submit Juminhyo with History (住民票の写し（除票付き）) to verify your 10-year address history.
2. Proof of Financial Stability
You must demonstrate that you have a stable income and can support yourself and your family.
- Certificate of Employment (在職証明書 – Zaiseki Shomeisho)
- Issued by your employer, confirming your current job status, position, and length of employment.
- Income Tax Certificates (課税証明書 – Kazei Shomeisho)
- Obtain from your city hall or tax office for the past 3–5 years.
- This certificate shows your annual taxable income and taxes paid.
- Final Tax Returns (確定申告書 – Kakutei Shinkokusho) (if applicable)
- If you are self-employed or a freelancer, submit copies of your final tax returns (with receipts) for the past 3–5 years.
- Bank Statements (銀行口座の残高証明書 – Ginko Zandaka Shomeisho)
- Recent bank statements (3–6 months) to show your savings and financial stability.
3. Proof of Tax and Social Insurance Compliance
You must provide evidence that you have paid all required taxes and social insurance contributions without delays.
- Tax Payment Certificates (納税証明書 – Nozei Shomeisho)
- Obtain from the local tax office for the past 3–5 years.
- This confirms that you have no outstanding tax liabilities.
- Proof of Pension Contributions (年金記録証明書 – Nenkin Kiroku Shomeisho)
- Obtain from the Japan Pension Service. Ensure there are no gaps in your pension contributions.
- Proof of Health Insurance Contributions (健康保険納付証明書 – Kenko Hoken Nofu Shomeisho)
- Obtain from your employer or health insurance provider (for at least the past 2–3 years).
4. Guarantor’s Documents
A Japanese guarantor is mandatory for the PR application. The guarantor must be a Japanese citizen or a permanent resident. They need to submit the following:
- Guarantor Letter (身元保証書 – Mimoto Hoshousho)
- This letter vouches for your character and financial stability.
- The guarantor is not financially responsible for you but acts as a reference.
- Guarantor’s Certificate of Residence (住民票 – Juminhyo)
- This confirms the guarantor’s current address and nationality.
- Guarantor’s Income Tax Certificate (課税証明書 – Kazei Shomeisho)
- Proof of the guarantor’s income for at least the past year.
5. Legal Compliance Documents
These documents confirm that you have no criminal history or legal issues in Japan.
- Certificate of Absence of Criminal Record (犯罪経歴証明書 – Hanzai Keireki Shomeisho) (if requested)
- Not typically required but may be requested in special cases.
- Driving Record (運転記録証明書 – Unten Kiroku Shomeisho) (optional)
- If you have a Japanese driver’s license, this document can show that you have no serious violations.
6. Family-Related Documents (If Applicable)
If you are applying with family members, you need to submit additional documents.
- Marriage Certificate (for spouse applicants)
- If your spouse is a Japanese citizen or permanent resident.
- Birth Certificates (for children)
- Required for children applying with you.
- Spouse’s Certificate of Employment and Tax Certificates
- Proof of your spouse’s income and employment (if they contribute to the household income).
7. Additional Supporting Documents (Optional but Recommended)
These documents can strengthen your application:
- Language Proficiency Certificates (e.g., JLPT N1/N2 for Japanese language skills).
- Community Involvement Proof (e.g., participation in local events or volunteering).
- Academic Research Papers or Patents (if you are in an academic or research role).
Tips for Document Preparation
- Translations: All documents not in Japanese or English must be professionally translated into Japanese.
- Originals and Copies: Submit original documents along with a set of photocopies. Originals will be returned after verification.
- Double-Check Expiry Dates: Ensure your passport, residence card, and other documents are valid at the time of submission.
- Organize Documents: Keep documents neatly organized in a folder. Label each section for easy reference during submission.
Here’s a detailed guide on the eligibility for Japan Permanent Residency (PR) for spouses of Japanese nationals or permanent residents. This pathway provides an accelerated route to PR compared to the standard 10-year residency requirement, allowing you to apply after 1 year of marriage and residence in Japan.
1. Eligibility Criteria for Spouses of Japanese Nationals or Permanent Residents
A. Length of Marriage and Residence
- You must have been married for at least 1 year and have been living in Japan during that period.
- The 1-year requirement applies whether your spouse is a Japanese citizen or permanent resident.
B. Valid Visa Status
- You must hold a Spouse of Japanese National Visa or a Spouse of Permanent Resident Visa.
- Ensure that your current visa is valid and not near expiration at the time of application.
C. Stable Marriage
- The marriage must be genuine and stable. The Immigration Bureau will evaluate this by checking for joint financial records, shared residence, and consistent interaction between you and your spouse.
D. Financial Stability
- You and your spouse must demonstrate sufficient income to support yourselves without relying on public assistance.
- Typically, an annual household income of ¥3 million or more is considered sufficient.
E. No Legal or Immigration Violations
- Both you and your spouse must have a clean legal record in Japan.
- You must have paid all taxes and social insurance contributions.
2. Documents Required for PR Application as a Spouse
A. Personal Identification Documents
- Permanent Residency Application Form (available at the Immigration Bureau)
- Passport (with copies of all entry and exit stamps)
- Residence Card (在留カード – Zairyu Card)
- Certificate of Residence (住民票 – Juminhyo) – for both you and your spouse, showing your current address and family relationship.
B. Marriage Verification Documents
- Marriage Certificate (issued by the Japanese municipal office)
- Family Register (戸籍謄本 – Koseki Tohon) – for Japanese spouses. This document verifies your spouse’s nationality and marriage registration.
- Proof of Residence Together – Utility bills, joint rental contracts, or shared financial records showing that you live together.
C. Financial Stability Documents
- Certificate of Employment (在職証明書 – Zaiseki Shomeisho) – for both you and your spouse, confirming job status and length of employment.
- Income Tax Certificates (課税証明書 – Kazei Shomeisho) – for the past 3 years for you and your spouse.
- Proof of Savings or Bank Statements – Optional but recommended to show financial stability.
D. Proof of Tax and Social Insurance Compliance
- Tax Payment Certificates (納税証明書 – Nozei Shomeisho) – For the past 3–5 years.
- Proof of Pension Contributions (年金記録証明書 – Nenkin Kiroku Shomeisho).
- Proof of Health Insurance Contributions (健康保険納付証明書 – Kenko Hoken Nofu Shomeisho).
3. How to Prove a Stable Marriage
The Immigration Bureau scrutinizes the authenticity and stability of your marriage to prevent fraudulent applications. Here’s how you can provide convincing evidence:
A. Shared Residence and Finances
- Submit documents showing that you and your spouse live together, such as:
- Joint rental agreements
- Utility bills with both your names
- Shared bank accounts or credit card statements
B. Communication History
- If your spouse is frequently traveling or you were temporarily separated for legitimate reasons, provide evidence of communication (e.g., chat history, emails, or call logs).
C. Family Photos and Life Events
- Include photos from your wedding, family gatherings, and shared experiences to demonstrate the personal aspects of your relationship.
4. Financial Stability Requirement
One of the key eligibility factors is proving that you and your spouse have sufficient financial resources to support yourselves. The Immigration Bureau will evaluate:
- Employment Status and Income:
- Your household income should be at least ¥3 million per year. However, higher income provides stronger evidence of stability.
- Bank Statements:
- Show consistent savings and financial activity.
- Tax Payment History:
- Ensure you have paid all required taxes for the past 3–5 years.
Note: If your spouse is unemployed but you have a stable income, that can still satisfy the requirement.
5. Application Process for Spouses
Step 1: Prepare Documents
Gather all required documents and ensure they are translated into Japanese if they are in another language.
Step 2: Submit the Application
Visit your local Regional Immigration Bureau in person. Submit the application along with all supporting documents.
Step 3: Wait for Processing
The processing time is typically 6–12 months. The Immigration Bureau may contact you for additional information or an interview.
6. Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Incomplete or Missing Documents: Ensure every document is included and up to date. Missing documents can delay or result in rejection.
- Unpaid Taxes or Pension Contributions: Check that you and your spouse have no outstanding taxes or social insurance payments.
- Inconsistent Residence Records: Make sure your Juminhyo reflects your actual address.
- Weak Evidence of Marriage Stability: If you haven’t lived together consistently, provide a valid explanation (e.g., work-related separation).
7. Benefits of PR for Spouses
- No More Visa Renewal: Freedom from renewing your visa every 1–3 years.
- Work Flexibility: You can work in any profession or start a business without needing a visa change.
- Easier Family Sponsorship: Sponsor your children or other family members for long-term residence.
8. FAQs About PR for Spouses
1. Can I Apply for PR If My Spouse is a Permanent Resident?
Yes, you can apply for PR after 1 year of marriage and living in Japan, even if your spouse is a permanent resident (not necessarily a Japanese citizen).
2. Do We Need a Minimum Household Income?
Yes, generally ¥3 million per year is considered the minimum threshold. Higher income strengthens your application.
3. What Happens if We Get Divorced After I Obtain PR?
Once you obtain permanent residency, your PR status is independent of your spouse. You won’t lose it if you divorce or if your spouse passes away.