Last updated: 2026
⚠️ Update 2025/9/30: Upcoming PR Cancellation Rules (from April 2027)
From April 2027, Japan may revoke permanent residency if someone knowingly and without excuse fails to pay taxes or social insurance.
- Applies only to malicious cases (large or repeated nonpayment, clear refusal to pay).
- Illness, disasters, or unemployment are exempt.
- Past nonpayment can also be reviewed, but settling debts before enforcement reduces risk.
- In some cases, PR may be downgraded to a renewable visa instead of full cancellation.
Stay current with payments to avoid issues once these new rules take effect.
What is Permanent Residence?
Permanent Residence (永住権 / Eijūken) in Japan allows foreign nationals to live and work in Japan indefinitely without the need for visa renewals. Unlike naturalization (becoming a Japanese citizen), permanent residence lets you keep your original nationality.
Benefits of Permanent Residence
- No work restrictions - work in any industry or profession
- No visa renewals needed (only residence card renewals every 7 years)
- Easier to obtain loans, mortgages, and credit cards
- More stable foundation for long-term life in Japan
- Your dependents can also get longer visa periods
- Maintain your original citizenship
Basic Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for permanent residence, you generally need to meet these criteria:
1. Good Conduct
You must have a clean record with no criminal convictions, visa violations, or other issues that would suggest bad character. Minor traffic violations are usually acceptable.
2. Sufficient Assets or Ability to Make a Living
You need to demonstrate financial stability - either through employment income, business income, or assets. There's no fixed minimum, but stable employment with a reasonable income is typically expected.
3. Contribution to Japan's Interests
This is assessed based on your residence period and contribution to Japanese society:
- Standard requirement: 10+ years continuous residence in Japan, including 5+ years on a work or residence visa
- Spouse of Japanese national: 3+ years of marriage and 1+ year residence in Japan
- Long-term resident: 5+ years continuous residence
- Highly Skilled Professional: 1-3 years depending on points
4. Current Visa Status
You should hold the longest available period of stay for your visa category (typically 3 or 5 years).
5. Tax and Social Insurance Compliance
You must have properly paid all taxes and enrolled in social insurance (health insurance and pension). Payment records for the past 3-5 years are typically reviewed.
Required Documents
A typical PR application includes:
- Application form
- Photo (4cm x 3cm)
- Reason statement (理由書)
- Proof of employment and income
- Tax payment certificates (3-5 years)
- Pension and health insurance payment records
- Residence card copy
- Passport copy
- Guarantor documents (if applicable)
The Application Process
- Step 1: Confirm eligibility and gather documents
- Step 2: Prepare reason statement explaining why you want PR
- Step 3: Submit application to your regional immigration bureau
- Step 4: Wait for processing (typically 4-6 months)
- Step 5: Receive result notification
- Step 6: If approved, receive new residence card
Tips for a Successful Application
- Ensure all tax and pension payments are up to date before applying
- Write a compelling reason statement in Japanese
- Include supporting documents that demonstrate ties to Japan
- Don't travel excessively while application is pending
- Respond promptly to any requests for additional information
Common Reasons for Rejection
- Late or missing tax payments
- Not enrolled in pension/health insurance
- Insufficient residence period
- Unstable employment history
- Extended periods outside Japan
- Previous visa violations
Need Help?
Oak Admin Office provides professional permanent residence application services. We can assess your eligibility, prepare your documents, and guide you through the entire process.