JapanRequirements for permanent residence?
To qualify for permanent residence in Japan, you generally need at least 10 years of continuous residence (with at least 5 years on a work or resident visa), good conduct, sufficient assets or income, and Japanese language ability at N4 level or higher.
What the Law Says
The Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act sets the legal requirements for permanent residence in Japan. The Minister of Justice may grant permanent residence status to foreign nationals who meet statutory conditions related to residence history, conduct, livelihood, and integration.
Applicants must have resided continuously in Japan for at least 10 years. Of those 10 years, at least 5 must be on a mid- to long-term resident status — such as Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services, Spouse or Child of Japanese National, or Permanent Resident — not including periods on short-term stay or student visas.
Applicants must demonstrate good conduct, meaning no serious criminal record or immigration violations. They must also show stable livelihood — typically through employment income, savings, or assets — sufficient to support themselves and dependents without relying on public assistance.
Since 2022, applicants aged 18–69 must prove basic Japanese language ability equivalent to JLPT N4 or higher, unless exempt (e.g., spouses of Japanese nationals or refugees).
Statutory TextA foreign national who has resided continuously in Japan for ten years or more, of which five years or more was with permission to engage in activities other than those permitted under the status of residence of 'Designated Activities' or 'Short-Term Stay', may be granted permission for permanent residence...
— Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act, s. 22 — Permission for Permanent Residence
Statutory TextThe Minister of Justice shall not grant permission for permanent residence unless the foreign national has sufficient assets or skills to maintain an independent livelihood.
— Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act, s. 22, para 2
Statutory TextA foreign national aged 18 to 69 years must demonstrate Japanese language ability at a level necessary for daily life, as defined by ordinance.
— Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act, s. 22-2 — Language Requirement
What to Do
Confirm eligibility: Check your residence history, visa types, and duration using your Residence Card and past status records.
Prepare documents: Gather tax returns (last 3 years), employment certificates, bank statements, JLPT N4 certificate (or exemption proof), and police clearance.
Submit application: File in person at your local Regional Immigration Services Bureau with completed Form No. 11 and ¥4,000 fee.
Attend interview: Be prepared to answer questions about your life in Japan, employment, family, and future plans.
Wait for decision: Processing usually takes 6–12 months; you may continue residing legally under your current status while pending.
Sources
Not legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-08.