Recent changes in Japan’s immigration system have made it much easier and affordable for Indians to get a Permanent Residency (PR) in the country. The application for PR now comes with a fee of only ¥8,000
(approximately ₹5,000).
This offers skilled workers and long-term residents the opportunity to enjoy unrestricted residence, employment, and study in Japan. Japan’s decision is driven by pressing demographic concerns, including a declining population and a rapidly ageing workforce. By easing the path to permanent residency and lowering the application cost, the government aims to draw skilled professionals from around the world.
Eligibility Criteria
Ordinarily, securing permanent residency in Japan requires a decade of uninterrupted residence, including at least five years under a legitimate work or family visa. Nonetheless, those who meet specific criteria may be eligible for faster routes that considerably reduce this waiting period.
Accelerated Routes
Japan’s points-based system provides an expedited route for highly skilled professionals. Those accumulating 70 points or above can qualify for permanent residency after only three years of continuous residence, while individuals securing 80 points or more may be eligible to apply in as little as a single year.
Alternative Eligibility Routes
Permanent residency can also be obtained through family connections. If a person is the spouse of a Japanese citizen or existing permanent resident, the marriage has lasted three years, and the applicant has lived in Japan for at least one year, then such a person is eligible for PR.
Similarly, children of Japanese nationals or permanent residents may apply after a year of continuous residence.
Whatever the route, applicants must demonstrate financial strength, possess a clean criminal record, and show consistent compliance with tax and social security obligations.
Application Procedure
Applying for permanent residency in Japan involves a simple process. Yet, it requires careful handling of all paperwork.
- Essential documents include a fully completed PR application form, a valid passport alongside a residence card, evidence of stable earnings such as tax statements or payslips, proof of pension and health insurance payments, and a guarantee letter from a Japanese citizen or existing permanent resident.
- Any materials in a foreign language must be accompanied by official Japanese translations.
- The review period generally takes between four and eight months, during which applicants must retain a valid visa status.
- Once approved, permanent residency removes the need for visa renewals, grants unrestricted work opportunities, and can make it easier to access financial services, including loans and mortgages.
