Overview

Provides indefinite stay with no activity restrictions. Requires: • 10 years continuous residence (at least 5 on work status) • OR HSP 80+ points: 1 year • OR HSP 70-79 points: 3 years • OR Spouse of Japanese: 3 years marriage + 1 year residence Requirements: • Physical presence: 6+ months/year in Japan (100+ days abroad raises flags) • Good conduct: No serious criminal penalties; traffic violations scrutinized • Financial stability: ~¥3,000,000+ annual income • Perfect tax/pension/insurance payment history • Japanese guarantor required Approval rate: ~50-60% officially; 99%+ with proper preparation. Fee increase coming: ¥10,000 → ~¥100,000 by FY2027.

Who It's For

Long-term residents meeting eligibility requirements

Requirements

Application Process

1. 1

   Confirm eligibility

   10 years residence OR accelerated route (HSP/spouse)

2. 2

   Gather 3 years of records

   Tax, pension, insurance payment proof

3. 3

   Find guarantor

   Japanese citizen or PR holder

4. 4

   Write Statement of Reasons

   Explain why you want to live in Japan permanently

5. 5

   Submit application

   At Immigration Bureau

6. 6

   Wait

   Processing takes 6-14 months

Costs

Path Forward

Tips

• Start preparing 3+ years before application
• Pay all taxes/pension/insurance ON TIME
• Minimize overseas travel in years before application
• Statement of Reasons is critical - explain your ties to Japan
• Apply before fee increase to ¥100,000

Common Mistakes

• Unpaid taxes, pension, or health insurance
• Late payments (even if now paid)
• Annual income below ¥3M
• Excessive time abroad (100+ days/year)
• Traffic violations
• Poorly written Statement of Reasons

DIY vs. Hiring a Lawyer

DIY possible with thorough preparation; lawyer recommended for borderline cases