Permanent Residency (Eiju-sha)
Category: Residency · Processing time: 6-18 months
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Apply through official authority
Immigration Services Agency of Japan
Always submit applications through the official source. Last verified 2026-10-03.
Visa type
Residency
Processing time
6-18 months
Fees
GovernmentFee: ¥8,000 (Revenue stamps upon approval)
Validity
Indefinite (Residence card must be renewed every 7 years).
Stay duration
Confirm on official source
Entry type
Confirm single/multiple entry rules
Insurance
Confirm if required
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Overview
Permanent Residency in Japan grants individuals the indefinite right to live and work in the country. It also provides a pathway to citizenship after additional years of residence, allowing f
- Leads to permanent residency: No
- Requires job offer: No
- Language required: No
- Minimum education: Not specified, but stability is key.
- Financial requirement: Stable income sufficient for self-support (typically ¥3M+ annually for singles).
- Accommodation proof: Yes (Proof of stable residence in Japan).
Estimated Costs
- - GovernmentFee: ¥8,000 (Revenue stamps upon approval)
Required Documents
- - Application form for Permanent Residency
- - Residence card and passport copies
- - Employment certificate and tax/withholding statements (3-5 years)
- - Payment certificates for National Tax, Resident Tax, Pension, and Health Insurance
- - Statement of Reasons (Explanation of why you seek PR)
- - Guarantor documents (must be Japanese national or Permanent Resident)
Application Steps
- Audit all tax, pension, and health insurance records for the last 5+ years.
- Ensure you hold a visa with a 5-year maximum period of stay.
- Compile residency evidence (rental contracts, utility bills, proof of continuous stay).
- Prepare 'Statement of Reasons' for Permanent Residency.
- Submit application to the regional Immigration Services Agency (ISA) office.
- Attend biometrics/interviews if requested during the 6-18 month review period.
Always confirm the latest steps and forms on the official portal: Immigration Services Agency of Japan →
Travel Insurance Requirement
- Mandatory: Confirm with official source
- Minimum coverage: Confirm current coverage rules
- Valid regions: Confirm accepted regions
- Approved providers: Use providers accepted by the official authority
Embassy, Consulate & Appointments
Embassy, consulate, jurisdiction, and appointment details vary by applicant location. Confirm the correct office before booking travel or paying fees.
Open appointment or official portal →Browse foreign embassies in Japan (MigrantIQ directory) →
Directory listings are for planning only — not legal advice. Confirm jurisdiction and appointment rules on the official portal.
Application checklist
Track your Permanent Residency / Settlement preparation
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Receive relevant reminders and source updates for Permanent Residency / Settlement in Japan.
Benefits & What This Visa Allows
- - Indefinite or long-term right to remain
- - Unrestricted right to work in most destinations
- - Access to public healthcare and education at resident rates
- - Pathway to citizenship after additional qualifying period
Trust & safety
Before you pay or submit documents
Use the official portal for applications and payments. Be careful with agents who guarantee approval, ask for personal-account transfers, or pressure you to send originals before a written contract.
Relevant laws
- Work Authorisation Rules
Employment · Severity: Critical
In Japan, obtaining the appropriate visa is important for anyone planning to work. Not all visas that allow entry into the country permit employment. For instance, a student visa allows limited work hours, while a work…
- Tax Residency and Income Reporting
Tax · Severity: High
In Japan, tax residency is determined by your physical presence in the country. If you live in Japan for more than one year, you are considered a tax resident. This applies to various groups, including workers,…
- Immigration Status and Overstay Rules
Immigration · Severity: Critical
In Japan, your right to stay is strictly tied to the type of visa, residence permit, entry stamp, or visa exemption you possess. You should understand that factors such as pending applications, job offers, or school…
Active scam alerts
In Japan, many newcomers, including visa applicants, families, students, and workers, may find themselves targeted by fraudulent agents who overcharge for services related to document translation, notarization, or…
In Japan, a common scam involves individuals impersonating airport staff, immigration officers, or travel agents. These scammers may approach tourists, first-time travelers, workers, and students, claiming that a…
In Japan, prospective students and their families are increasingly targeted by fraudsters offering fake university admissions, scholarships, or student visa packages. These scams often originate from unofficial agents…
In Japan, newcomers sometimes hit housing scams where fake apartments are advertised to pressure them into paying a deposit before they have a chance to view the property or sign a legitimate contract. This scam is…
Quick Eligibility Check
Use this self-check for Permanent Residency / Settlement. It does not replace official legal assessment.
Common Rejection Reasons
- - Incomplete or incorrect documentation submitted with the application.
- - Lack of a consistent residency history or failure to meet the required duration.
- - Issues related to tax and pension payments can lead to application denial.
Application Tips
- - Ensure that all documents are complete and accurately filled out to avoid delays.
- - Maintain a clear and consistent record of tax and pension payments during your residency.
- - Consider consulting with an immigration lawyer or expert to guide you through the process.
Sources & References
Use these references for verification. Official government and appointment portals override summary guidance on MigrantIQ.
- Immigration Services Agency of Japan
Official source for forms, appointments, fees, and final requirements.
- MigrantIQ visa record
Summary record maintained for planning and source verification.
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Frequently Asked Questions
This visa is designed for applicants matching Residency pathway criteria.
Typical processing time is 6-18 months, subject to documentation quality and application volume.
Start with eligibility evidence, document checklists, and proof of funds before submitting.