Permanent Residency Application from Work Visa in Japan【2025 Edition】— Explained by Immigration Lawyers

2. Benefits of Obtaining Permanent Residency for Work Visa Holders

Foreign nationals living in Japan with a work visa such as “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services,” “Business Manager,” or “Intra-company Transferee” usually need to renew their status every 1 year, 3 years, or 5 years. As long as they are on a work visa, there is always a risk of losing their status of residence if they change employers, change positions, or terminate their employment contract.

However, once you obtain permanent residency, you are largely freed from these restrictions and gain both stable residence without renewal and freedom to choose your occupation. For long-term work visa holders who wish to build their life base in Japan, permanent residency offers very significant advantages.

No need to renew your status of residence

Permanent residents do not need regular renewals like work visa holders. Even if you change jobs, departments, or job descriptions, you do not have to change your status of residence. You are also freed from the risk of non-approval due to forgetting renewal or delays in the immigration screening.

Freedom to choose your employer and occupation

Under an ordinary work visa, your activities are restricted by your job category and employment contract. Once you obtain permanent residency, there are no restrictions on industry or job type, and you are free to change jobs or start your own business. You can also engage in company management, side jobs, and freelance work, greatly expanding your career options in Japan.

More stability for your family’s life in Japan

With permanent residency, your spouse and children can also obtain and renew their residence status more securely, making it easier to create a long-term life plan for the whole family. Permanent residency can also be advantageous when applying for housing loans and other financial services.

Not affected by changes in employment or income

With a work visa, you may lose the basis for your status of residence if your employment contract ends or you become temporarily unemployed. With permanent residency, your status of residence does not depend on your current job, allowing you to remain in Japan while searching for a new position.

Higher social credibility and stronger life foundation

Permanent residency makes it easier to gain long-term credibility with banks, real-estate companies, and public institutions. This helps make future plans in Japan—such as buying a home, children’s education, and business expansion—more realistic and attainable.

In this way, obtaining permanent residency is not just an “extension of your period of stay” but a crucial step that fundamentally supports your life, work, and family stability in Japan. If you intend to continue working in Japan over the long term, we recommend considering a permanent residency application as soon as you meet the requirements.

3. Requirements for Applying for Permanent Residency from a Work Visa

To obtain permanent residency from a work visa (such as Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services, Business Manager, or Intra-company Transferee), you must meet all the standards outlined in the “Guidelines for Permission for Permanent Residence” under Article 22-2 of the Immigration Control Act. Below is an explanation of the general requirements for work visa holders and additional criteria that apply to specific visa types.

1. Common Requirements for All Work Visa Holders

Regardless of visa type, the following three points are essential for all permanent residency applications.

• (1) Good Conduct
  Applicants must comply with Japanese laws and social norms, having no record of traffic violations, minor offenses, or delayed tax payments. Repeated minor infractions can negatively affect your application. In particular, unpaid taxes, pension, or social insurance premiums must be fully settled before submission.
• (2) Stable Financial Base
  Applicants must have stable and continuous income sufficient to support an independent life. As a general guideline, an annual income of 3 million yen or more (single) or 4 million yen or more (with dependents) is recommended. Employment history, job stability, and company performance are also taken into account.
• (3) Residence in Japan Consistent with National Interest
  Applicants must have lived in Japan continuously for 10 years or more, including at least 5 years under a work or residence status. Continuous renewals for the past 5 years are also desirable.

Additionally, applicants should currently hold the maximum period of stay (5 years) and have no history of immigration violations or false declarations.

If these conditions are met, permanent residency from a work visa is fully achievable. You should prepare clear documentation such as employment certificates, tax and withholding statements, and copies of your social insurance card to demonstrate income and social credibility.

2. Additional Requirements by Specific Visa Type

Some work visa types are subject to special evaluation points during the screening process. The main examples are summarized below.

• (1) Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services
  The immigration office evaluates job stability, professional expertise, and income continuity. Even if you have changed jobs several times, consistency in your professional field (e.g., IT engineer → system developer) will be acceptable.
• (2) Business Manager Visa
  Following the legal amendment effective October 16, 2025, stricter criteria apply, including employment of a full-time staff member, minimum capital of 30 million yen, and Japanese language proficiency by either the applicant or staff. For details, see [2025/10 Revision] Key Points for Obtaining Permanent Residency from a Business Manager Visa.
• (3) Highly Skilled Professional Visa
  Holders using the points system may apply after 3 years (70 points) or 1 year (80 points) of residence, a major reduction from the normal 10-year rule. Academic degree, research results, salary, and company scale all affect the evaluation.
• (4) Intra-company Transferee, Skilled Labor, Medical, and Education Visas
  Intra-company transferees must prove continuous work within the same corporate group. Skilled, medical, and education professionals are assessed based on career stability and contribution to society.

Different work visas require different documents and review focuses. Understanding your visa category and preparing evidence of income, taxes, and job description in advance is key to a successful permanent residency application.

3. Applying for Permanent Residency Together with Family (Spouse and Children)

Work visa holders may apply for permanent residency together with their spouse and children. However, each family member must meet certain individual requirements in addition to the main applicant’s eligibility.

1. The Main Applicant Must Meet All Core Requirements

The main work visa holder must fulfill the general criteria of good conduct, stable income, and 10 years of residence (or shorter period for highly skilled professionals). If the main applicant is denied, family members cannot obtain approval either.

2. Requirements for the Spouse

If the spouse holds a “Dependent” visa, the following conditions must be met:

• Continuous marriage and cohabitation with the main applicant
• At least 3 years of marriage and proof of joint life in Japan
• The household’s financial stability through the main applicant’s income

Authorities closely review the authenticity of the marital relationship (shared residence, financial support, and expenses). Supporting evidence such as resident records, utility bills, and joint bank account statements is highly recommended.

3. Requirements for Children

Children residing under “Dependent” status or born in Japan may apply simultaneously with their parents. The following points are considered:

• The parent’s permanent residency application is likely to be approved
• The child has continuous residence, education, and life base in Japan
• The family as a whole maintains financial and living stability

Even for recently born children, applying together with parents can simplify future immigration procedures.

4. Notes on Separate Residence or Overseas Stay

If the spouse or child lives abroad or separately, joint application may not be allowed. Permanent residency is only granted when there is clear evidence of family life together in Japan.

5. Household-level Stability is Emphasized

In family applications, the review includes not only the main applicant’s income but also the household’s total annual income, living expenses, tax payments, and social insurance. Families with more dependents may need a higher income level or savings.

Therefore, when applying with family, you should ensure balance among the following three factors: personal visa stability, family cohabitation and real life together, and household financial base.

4. Free Eligibility Check System for Permanent Residency from Work Visa

If you are considering applying for permanent residency from a work visa, it’s important to confirm whether you meet the general requirements for permanent residence.

This free tool allows you to check your eligibility based on years of stay, conduct, income, tax payments, social insurance, and family structure. The test consists of simple “Yes/No” questions, and the results will also show areas that need improvement.

Click the button below to try the Permanent Residency Eligibility Check now.

4. Required Documents for Permanent Residency Application

Please note that the list of required documents is frequently updated due to legal revisions. Always refer to the latest information on the Immigration Services Agency’s official website.

If you request our service, our office will prepare the set of documents that best increases your approval chances, based on the latest list published on the Immigration Bureau website and tailored to your personal situation.

5. Application Process and Review Period for Permanent Residency from a Work Visa

1. Step-by-Step Process

2. Processing Time for Permanent Residency Applications

The Immigration Bureau updates the average processing time monthly. Please refer to the link below for the latest published statistics.

6. Q&A: Permanent Residency Application from a Work Visa

In general, you can apply once you have continuously resided in Japan for 10 years, with at least 5 of those years under a work or residence status. It’s also important that during the past 5 years you have renewed your visa consistently and maintained tax and social insurance payments without delay.
For Highly Skilled Professionals, there is a special exemption — you may apply after 3 years with 70 points or 1 year with 80 points.

There is no fixed legal standard, but immigration authorities evaluate whether you can maintain a stable livelihood. Generally, a single applicant should earn at least 3 million yen per year, while families should have a household income of 4–5 million yen or more. If your income fluctuates significantly, you can strengthen your application by submitting documents explaining employment stability or future prospects.

Changing jobs does not automatically disqualify you, but you must ensure that your new job aligns with your visa type. For example, under “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services,” your job duties must relate to your academic background. Frequent career changes in unrelated fields may raise concerns about stability. If your job change is within the same field, it’s fine — however, it’s better to apply after you’ve worked steadily for a certain period at your new employer.

Yes, it can lead to rejection. Immigration authorities strictly review your tax, pension, and social insurance payment records. Even small delays or unpaid amounts can violate the “good conduct” or “financial stability” requirements. If you have already settled all payments and can prove consistent compliance, reapplication may be approved. Always check your payment history and attach your tax and pension certificates before applying.

Yes. Family members (spouse and children) living together with the main applicant can apply simultaneously, provided that the main applicant meets all eligibility conditions. Spouses must prove a real marital relationship and financial dependency, and children must have a stable life and education base in Japan. Immigration also reviews household income, tax, and insurance status to ensure stability.

8. Service Overview – Permanent Residency Application from a Work Visa

1. Service Overview

This service is designed for foreign nationals residing in Japan under work visa categories such as “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services,” “Business Manager,” or “Intra-company Transferee”, who wish to obtain the “Permanent Resident” status from the Immigration Services Agency of Japan.

Many long-term residents with work visas experience stress or uncertainty during each visa renewal or status change due to job transitions. At ACROSEED Immigration Lawyer’s Office, we provide comprehensive support to maximize your approval rate and ensure a smooth permanent residency application, covering all stages from eligibility assessment to document preparation and submission on your behalf.

This service is suitable for the following cases:

For those holding a Highly Skilled Professional Visa or considering permanent residency through the Highly Skilled Points System, please refer to the dedicated page below:

Obtaining Permanent Residency through the Highly Skilled Points System

Even if you currently hold a regular work visa (Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services or Business Manager), if your Highly Skilled Points exceed 70, the permanent residency requirement will be relaxed — you may apply after 3 years (70 points) or even after 1 year (80 points) of residence.

2. Service Inclusions

1. Proposal and preparation of the most approval-effective supporting documents
2. Submission to the Immigration Bureau and representation at the visa stamping process upon approval
3. Assistance with re-entry permit application (upon request)
4. Follow-up during the examination period and handling of additional document requests
5. Free reapplication in case of initial rejection

8. Why choose ACROSEED

Why clients choose ACROSEED


• Founded in 1986; industry-leading 40,000+ visa filings
• 99.9% approval rate; trusted by many clients
• No travel expenses; flat fees nationwide
• Extensive track record in complex/re-application after refusal cases
• No add-on fees; transparent pricing
• Free re-application until approval if refused
• Support available in Japanese, English, and Chinese

Founded in 1986, with 40,000+ visa applications

ACROSEED was founded in 1986. Since 1990—the first year administrative scriveners were allowed to handle immigration under the law—we have specialized in immigration work. Our total filings exceed 40,000 (as of March 2025).

We currently handle 3,000–4,000 visa filings annually, visiting immigration twice a week to stay current on examinations and legal changes.

By choosing ACROSEED, you get services based on the latest examination trends and the industry’s deepest practical experience.

99.9% approval rate—peace of mind backed by clients’ trust

Since opening in 1986, ACROSEED has always prioritized trustworthy services. At the free consultation stage, if approval seems unlikely, we explain this and decline the engagement.

As a result, we have maintained an approval rate of 99%+ (including re-applications) since opening.

However, for cases with a viable chance where clients wish to proceed, we will make a maximum effort together.

Our attentive, tailored service has earned broad support from clients.

No travel fees—flat rates nationwide

Our office is in Nagatacho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, but we handle immigration cases nationwide at flat rates with no travel expenses.

For distant clients, we offer online consultations via Skype or Zoom so you can speak face-to-face with your consultant just like an in-person visit.

Strong results in difficult and re-application cases

We have many approvals for cases repeatedly refused by clients on their own or by other law firms.

ACROSEED’s track record is unparalleled, and we are often referred the most difficult cases from around the country—operating like a “general hospital” for the industry.

Don’t give up—consult us even for seemingly difficult cases.

No add-on fees—transparent pricing

Our service fees are only those listed on our website.

We do not add fees due to client circumstances such as frequent travel or prior refusals.

We provide a transparent pricing system for your peace of mind.

Free re-application until approval if refused

If a case filed by ACROSEED is unfortunately refused, we will re-apply free of charge as long as there remains a possibility of approval.

While some competitors offer “full refunds if refused,” we believe refunds do not solve the client’s problem.

Accepting a case casually and leaving a refusal record in your filing history can make approval much harder later.

Clients who choose ACROSEED from among many firms deserve our stance of “getting the fastest approval possible—and if refused, supporting relentlessly until approval.”

4. Application Fee for Permanent Residency from Work Visa (Excl. Tax)

No additional fees will be charged regardless of your individual circumstances.

ACROSEED’s services are available nationwide — clients outside the Tokyo area can apply at the same fee.

Visa and MasterCard payments are accepted.

9. Popular Pages Related to Permanent Residency Applications

Japan Permanent Residency Application Guide

A comprehensive overview of permanent residency applications in Japan: key requirements (income, years of stay, taxes / pension compliance), typical patterns by status of residence, and how to respond to refusals.

Permanent Residency Guide from a Work Visa

An up-to-date guide for those who aim to obtain permanent residency in Japan from a work visa. Includes a self-check tool for work-visa holders on PR requirements.

Obtaining a PR Visa via Highly Skilled Professional Points

A service for those who wish to obtain a Highly Skilled Professional visa or permanent residency in Japan using the Highly Skilled Professional points system.

Permanent Residency Guide for Spouses of Japanese Nationals

For applicants moving from a spouse visa to permanent residency, this guide explains requirements, documents, and common refusal cases, with a PR self-check tool for spouse visa holders.

Permanent Residency Requirements Self-Check Tool

A 30-second self-diagnosis tool to check whether you meet Japan’s permanent residency requirements: Highly Skilled 70/80 points, work visa, spouse visa, and Long-Term Resident.

Reapplication Guide After Permanent Residency Refusal

What to do if your PR application is refused and how to prepare for reapplication.

Tell me more about the detailed conditions for a permanent residency (PR) application in Japan

Naturalization vs. Permanent Residency: A Complete Comparison【2025 Updated Guide】

Is an annual income of 3 million yen really necessary for permanent residency?【Stricter for work visas, more flexible for family-based statuses】

【2025 Edition】Days Abroad and Permanent Residency Application: How many days are acceptable? Criteria, cautions, and countermeasures

Permanent Residency and Unpaid Taxes / Pension / Health Insurance: Impact, required documents, and strategies

Permanent residency applications and traffic violations: Will fines, blue tickets, or red tickets lead to refusal?

The scope of a guarantor’s responsibility in a permanent residency application

【From Dependent to Permanent Residency】2025 Edition: Requirements, simultaneous applications with family, and key cautions

【2025/10 Amendment Ready】Key points for obtaining permanent residency from a Business Manager visa

【2025 Edition】Permanent residency from a Long-Term Resident status: income, years of stay, and settlement