What is Permanent Residence?

Definition and Overview of Permanent Residence

"Permanent residence" is one of the statuses of residence under the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act (Immigration Control Act), which allows a foreign national to reside in Japan without any limitation on the period of stay. It is granted to foreign nationals whom the Minister of Justice has permitted to reside permanently.

Ordinary statuses of residence (such as work visas or spouse visas) have a defined period of stay, and renewal procedures are required before the period expires. However, once permanent residence is obtained, the period of stay becomes unlimited, eliminating the burden of renewal procedures.

Permanent residence can be applied for by foreign nationals who have resided in Japan for an extended period and meet certain requirements. However, approval is not guaranteed simply by applying; the examination is conducted at the discretion of the Minister of Justice.

Differences Between Permanent Residence and Other Statuses of Residence

Compared to other statuses of residence, permanent residence has the following characteristics.

• The period of stay is unlimited (other statuses of residence have fixed terms such as 1 year, 3 years, or 5 years)
• There are no activity restrictions (unlike work visas, which limit you to specific activities)
• No renewal procedures for the status of residence are required
• The Residence Card must be renewed every 7 years

On the other hand, even as a permanent resident, you remain a foreign national, so you do not have the right to vote or run for office. Additionally, if you fall under grounds for deportation, you may be subject to deportation proceedings.

Benefits of Permanent Residence

Obtaining permanent residence provides the following benefits.

No Limitation on Period of Stay

Once permanent residence is obtained, the period of stay becomes unlimited. Unlike other statuses of residence that require renewal every 1, 3, or 5 years, you can live in Japan with peace of mind without worrying about the expiration of your period of stay.

No Activity Restrictions

With work visas (such as Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services), you can only engage in activities within the permitted scope. However, permanent residents have no activity restrictions and are free to work in any occupation. You can also freely change jobs or start a business.

Improved Social Credibility

Obtaining permanent residence makes it easier to be approved for housing loans and other types of loans. Financial institutions place importance on the stability of one's status of residence, so permanent residents are evaluated as having higher credibility compared to holders of other statuses of residence.

Advantages for Spouse and Children's Status of Residence

The spouse and children of a permanent resident can obtain the status of residence "Spouse or Child of Permanent Resident." Additionally, family members of permanent residents may benefit from relaxed requirements when applying for permanent residence.

Important Considerations for Permanent Residence

While permanent residence has many benefits, the following points require attention.

It is Not Japanese Nationality

Obtaining permanent residence does not mean you have acquired Japanese nationality. You remain a foreign national, so you do not have the right to vote or run for office, and you will continue to use your home country's passport. If you wish to acquire Japanese nationality, a separate "naturalization" application procedure is required.

Re-entry Permit is Required

When a permanent resident leaves Japan, a re-entry permit (including a deemed re-entry permit) is required. The deemed re-entry permit is valid for 1 year from the date of departure. If you plan to stay overseas for more than 1 year, you must obtain a re-entry permit in advance. If you leave Japan without obtaining a re-entry permit, or if you do not re-enter within the validity period, your permanent residence will be revoked.

Existence of the Permanent Residence Revocation System

With the 2024 amendment to the Immigration Control Act, a system for revoking permanent residence was introduced. If you intentionally fail to pay taxes or social insurance premiums, or if you violate the Immigration Control Act, your permanent residence may be revoked under certain grounds. Even after obtaining permanent residence, it is important to comply with laws and fulfill your tax obligations.

May Be Subject to Deportation

Even permanent residents may be subject to deportation if they commit serious crimes or violate the Immigration Control Act. Permanent residence is one of the statuses of residence and differs from Japanese nationality, so it is essential to be careful about legal violations.

Summary

Permanent residence is a highly stable status of residence with no limitation on the period of stay and no activity restrictions. It offers significant benefits for those considering long-term life in Japan, as it greatly expands social credibility and freedom in daily life.

On the other hand, there are important points to note, such as the fact that it differs from Japanese nationality, a re-entry permit is required, and a revocation system exists. If you are considering applying for permanent residence, we recommend thoroughly confirming the requirements and procedures in advance.