Permanent Residency (永住許可)

Application support for foreign nationals living in Hakuba and Nagano.
We handle eligibility checks, document preparation, and filing with the immigration bureau.

Eligibility Requirements

1

Length of Stay

Generally 10 years of continuous residence in Japan, including at least 5 years on a work or other qualifying visa. Shorter periods may apply in certain cases (e.g., spouse of a Japanese national).

2

Stable Income

You must demonstrate stable and continuous income sufficient to support yourself and your dependents. The required amount varies by household size, but roughly ¥3 million per year is a common benchmark.

3

Tax & Social Insurance

All income taxes, resident taxes, pension contributions, and health insurance premiums must be paid on time. Even a single late payment can affect your application.

Note for Hakuba resort workers and seasonal employees:
Calculating qualifying residence periods can be complex for those with intermittent work histories, multiple visa changes, or periods working at ski resorts. We review your individual history before filing to confirm eligibility.

How the Process Works

1

Initial Consultation

We review your visa history, employment record, tax payments, and household situation to confirm whether you meet the requirements and identify any issues in advance.

2

Document List & Collection

We provide a customised list of required documents and assist with obtaining certificates from local government offices, the tax office, and other authorities on your behalf.

3

Application Preparation

We prepare the full application package, including the application form, reason for application letter, and any supporting documents specific to your situation.

4

Filing & Follow-up

We submit your application to the Nagano Immigration Bureau and handle any additional questions or requests from the examiner during the review period.

5

Result & Card Collection

We monitor the status and notify you of the result. Upon approval, you will collect your Permanent Resident card at the immigration bureau.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply for permanent residency while on a Specified Skilled Worker (特定技能) visa?
It depends on your visa category. Specified Skilled Worker Type 1 (特定技能1号) does not count toward the 10-year residency requirement. Type 2 (特定技能2号) generally does. Please contact us for an assessment based on your individual history.
How is my qualifying period calculated if I worked seasonally at a ski resort?
Seasonal or intermittent work periods can complicate the calculation. Gaps in employment, short-term visas, or changes in status can all affect which periods count. We analyse your visa stamps and residence record to determine your actual qualifying period before filing.
What happens if my application is rejected?
A rejected application does not affect your current visa status. You remain able to work and live in Japan on your existing visa. We can assist with re-applications after identifying the reason for rejection, including cases where a previous application was filed by another office or the applicant themselves.
How long does the review take?
Review periods vary but typically range from 4 to 12 months. The Nagano Immigration Bureau does not provide interim status updates; we monitor the case and notify you of any contact from the examiner.
Does my spouse or child need to apply separately?
Yes. Each family member requires a separate application. However, spouses and children of permanent residents or Japanese nationals often qualify under different criteria. We review each family member’s situation individually and can file all applications together.

Fee

Permanent Residency Application

Salaried employee ¥180,000 (excl. tax)
Business owner / company director / self-employed ¥220,000 (excl. tax)
Additional family member (co-resident) +¥88,800 (excl. tax)
Re-application (after rejection or prior self-filing) +¥88,800 (excl. tax)
※ A ¥10,000 revenue stamp fee is payable separately at the immigration bureau upon approval.

What is included

  1. Unlimited consultation throughout the process
  2. Personalised document checklist based on your situation
  3. Collection of documents from government offices on your behalf (city hall, tax office, legal affairs bureau, etc.)
  4. Preparation of the full application package
  5. Drafting of the reason for application letter
  6. Review and preparation of any supporting contracts or documents
  7. Filing at the immigration bureau
  8. Handling of examiner questions and requests for additional documents
  9. Regular status monitoring
  10. Notification of result

Not sure if you qualify? Start with a free consultation.

We review your residence history and situation before you commit to anything.
Consultations are available in English.

Contact Us