Examination Period and Key Points

Estimated Examination Period

The examination period for a permanent residence application is generally estimated at approximately 4 months to 1 year. However, this can vary significantly depending on the content of the application and the workload of the Immigration Bureau.

In recent years, the examination period has tended to become longer due to an increase in the number of applications. In particular, if you are asked to submit additional documents or if there are matters in the application that require verification, it may take even longer.

During the examination period, it is important to respond promptly to inquiries from the Immigration Bureau and requests for additional documents. Delays in responding may extend the examination period accordingly.

Key Points Emphasized During Examination

The following points are particularly emphasized in the examination for permanent residence. It is important to thoroughly review and prepare for these points before applying.

Continuity of Period of Stay

As a general rule, you are required to have continuously resided in Japan for 10 years or more. Of this period, you must have resided for 5 years or more with a work status or residential status. If you have been absent from Japan for an extended period, the continuity of your stay may not be recognized.

Tax Payment Status

You are required to have properly paid taxes such as income tax and resident tax. This is verified through tax payment certificates and tax assessment certificates. Any delinquency or non-payment of taxes is a major factor leading to denial.

Payment of Social Insurance Premiums

It is important to have properly paid health insurance premiums and National Pension premiums. In particular, non-enrollment or non-payment of the National Pension is strictly examined. Since the payment status for the most recent 2 years is verified, be sure to check for any unpaid premiums before applying.

Good Conduct

You are required to have complied with laws and led a life that is not subject to social criticism in daily life. Criminal records and traffic violations are checked. Even minor traffic violations may affect the examination if there are multiple offenses.

Financial Stability

You are required to have assets or skills sufficient to support yourself independently. Having a stable income and not being a burden on public resources are examined. The income and assets of the entire household are evaluated comprehensively.

Common Reasons for Denial

In the following cases, there is a high possibility that the permanent residence application will be denied. Check whether any of these apply to you before submitting your application.

Tax Delinquency or Non-Payment

If there is any delinquency or non-payment of income tax or resident tax, the possibility of denial is very high. Even if there was past delinquency, the examination may be affected if a certain period has not elapsed since full payment was made. It is important to pay all taxes in full before applying and obtain tax payment certificates.

Non-Enrollment or Non-Payment of National Pension

Non-enrollment in the National Pension or non-payment of premiums is a major factor for denial. Company employees are enrolled in the Employees' Pension and therefore have no issue, but self-employed individuals and freelancers should be sure to check their National Pension enrollment and payment status. If there are unpaid premiums, we recommend making retroactive payments before applying.

Disruption of Continuity of Stay Due to Extended Absence

If you have been away from Japan for 3 months or more in a single departure, or for a total of approximately 6 months or more throughout the year, the continuity of your stay may not be recognized. If an extended absence is necessary due to work or family circumstances, we recommend consulting a specialist in advance.

Criminal Record and Traffic Violations

If you have a history of criminal penalties, good conduct may not be recognized and the application may be denied. Regarding traffic violations, multiple violations within the past 5 years may also affect the examination. In particular, serious violations such as drunk driving or driving without a license are major factors for denial.

Tips to Increase Your Approval Rate

To increase the approval rate for permanent residence, it is important to prepare your application with the following points in mind.

Completeness of Documents

Preparing all required documents without omission is fundamental. If there are deficiencies or missing documents, you may be asked to submit additional documents, which not only extends the examination period but may also be viewed as insufficient preparation by the applicant. Check the list of required documents in advance and submit your application only after all documents are in order.

A Well-Written Statement of Reasons

The statement of reasons for the permanent residence application is an important document that conveys the legitimacy of your application to the examiner. It is important to describe your living situation in Japan, future life plans, and reasons for seeking permanent residence in a specific and persuasive manner. Rather than simply stating "because I like Japan," include your contributions to Japanese society and family circumstances for a comprehensive statement.

Prompt Response to Requests for Additional Documents

During the examination, the Immigration Bureau may request the submission of additional documents. In such cases, it is important to respond promptly within the specified deadline. Delays in response may negatively affect the examination. If the content of the additional documents is unclear, consult a specialist to prepare the appropriate documents.

Summary

The examination period for a permanent residence application is generally 4 months to 1 year, but it has tended to become longer in recent years. The examination emphasizes continuity of period of stay, tax payment status, payment of social insurance premiums, good conduct, and financial stability.

To avoid denial, it is important to resolve any unpaid taxes or pension premiums, avoid extended absences from Japan, and comply with laws. Additionally, completeness of documents, a well-written statement of reasons, and prompt response to requests for additional documents can increase your approval rate.

If you need help preparing your permanent residence application, we recommend consulting a specialist.