permanent
Permanent Resident
An indefinite residence status allowing the holder to live and work in Japan with no time limit or activity restrictions.
Duration & Rights
Period of Stay:
Indefinite (re-entry permit needed if leaving Japan > 1 year)
Work Rights:
Unrestricted – any lawful activity or employment
Processing Time:
4-12 months (varies by case/region)
Quick Stats
Difficulty
5/5
Popularity
5/5
Requirements
- Typically 10 years of continuous residency in Japan (shorter if spouse of Japanese or HSP)
- Demonstration of financial stability and regular income
- Good conduct (no serious criminal record; tax and insurance compliance)
- A Japanese national or PR guarantor (letter of guarantee)
Key Documents
- Residence/tax history
- Proof of income and tax payments
- Letter of Guarantee
- Application statement (if required)
FAQs
Does PR change my citizenship?
No. You remain a citizen of your home country unless you later naturalize.
Can PR be lost?
Yes, if you stay abroad >1 year without a re-entry permit, or in rare cases due to serious legal issues.
Upgrade Paths
- Naturalization (Japanese citizenship)