2027 Guide: Why Can Permanent Resident Status in Japan Be Revoked? Legal Changes, Revocation Conditions, Preventive Measures and Reapplication Explained by ACROSEED Immigration Lawyer’s Office

Many people assume that once they obtain Permanent Resident status, they will never need to renew it and can remain in Japan permanently without concern. However, in certain circumstances, Permanent Resident status may be revoked.

The Japanese government is also scheduled to introduce changes to the permanent residence system from April 2027. Compliance with tax, pension and social insurance obligations, as well as a person’s overall living situation in Japan, will become increasingly important.

However, the legal changes do not mean that the Permanent Resident status of existing permanent residents will automatically become easier to revoke. Revocation will continue to be determined on the basis of the grounds prescribed by the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act.

In this article, ACROSEED Immigration Lawyer’s Office provides an easy-to-understand explanation of the following topics based on the latest available information.

• What will change from April 2027
• Main reasons why Permanent Resident status may be revoked
• Effects of unpaid taxes, social insurance contributions, pension payments and long-term stays outside Japan
• How to respond after receiving a notice concerning revocation
• Whether Permanent Resident status can be obtained again after revocation
• Steps permanent residents should take in daily life to protect their status

Whether you are considering applying for permanent residence or have already obtained Permanent Resident status, it is important to understand the latest legal changes and take appropriate steps to reduce future risks.

What Will Change in April 2027? Planned Changes

The Japanese government is reviewing the permanent residence system with the aim of ensuring its proper operation. As part of this review, the authorities are expected to examine more carefully both the criteria used in permanent residence applications and whether permanent residents are fulfilling their legal obligations.

For permanent residence applications submitted from April 2027 onward, the following factors may receive greater attention.

• The ability to maintain an independent livelihood through stable income, assets and other financial resources
• The stability of the applicant’s living foundation, including expected future pension benefits
• Compliance with public obligations, including the payment of taxes, pension contributions and health insurance premiums
• Actual residence in Japan and the applicant’s continuing intention and ability to settle in Japan

However, this does not mean that the Permanent Resident status of all existing permanent residents will be revoked from April 2027. Nor does the review mean that Permanent Resident status will automatically become easier to revoke.

Revocation of Permanent Resident status will continue to be determined on the basis of the grounds prescribed by the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act, such as fraudulent applications or the submission of a false residential address.

At the same time, even after obtaining Permanent Resident status, it is important to manage the following matters properly.

• Pay taxes by the applicable deadlines
• Properly pay pension contributions, health insurance premiums and other social insurance contributions
• Report a new residential address within the required period after moving
• Check the validity period of a re-entry permit before leaving Japan for an extended period
• Maintain an established living foundation and actual residence in Japan

In particular, tax payment records, the payment of social insurance and pension contributions, residential address notifications and actual residence in Japan are expected to become increasingly important.

Specific examination standards and operating procedures will need to be confirmed through future ministerial ordinances, the Guidelines for Permission for Permanent Residence and announcements issued by the Immigration Services Agency of Japan. This page will be updated whenever new information is officially released.

1. How Permanent Resident Status Can Be Revoked｜Legal Basis

Permanent Resident status may be revoked in certain circumstances under Article 22-4 of the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act.

Permanent residents may also be subject to revocation when the applicable legal grounds are met.

The Immigration Services Agency of Japan publishes the grounds for revocation on its website under “Revocation of Status of Residence (Article 22-4 of the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act).” The grounds are outlined below.

(1) Where a person has received a seal of verification for landing or other permission by using deception or other wrongful means to cause an immigration inspector to make an incorrect determination regarding whether the person falls under any of the grounds for denial of landing.

(2) In addition to the case described in item (1), where a person has received a seal of verification for landing or other permission by using deception or other wrongful means concerning the activities the person intended to engage in while in Japan—for example, where a person intending to perform unskilled labor falsely stated that they would engage in activities covered by the status of residence of “Engineer”—or by making a false statement concerning facts other than the activities the person intended to engage in while in Japan, such as falsifying their personal history.

(3) Where a person has received a seal of verification for landing or other permission by submitting a document containing false information, in a case not falling under item (1) or item (2). Under this item, it is not necessary for deception or other wrongful means to have been used, and the applicant is not required to have acted intentionally.

(4) Where a person has received special permission to stay by using deception or other wrongful means.

(5) Where a person residing in Japan under a status of residence listed in the left-hand column of Appended Table I of the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act is not engaging in the activities corresponding to that status of residence and is residing in Japan while engaging in, or intending to engage in, other activities, except where there is a justifiable reason.

(6) Where a person residing in Japan under a status of residence listed in the left-hand column of Appended Table I of the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act has not continuously engaged in the activities corresponding to that status for three months or more, except where there is a justifiable reason for not engaging in those activities.

(7) Where a person residing under the status of residence of “Spouse or Child of Japanese National,” excluding a child or specially adopted child of a Japanese national, or under the status of residence of “Spouse or Child of Permanent Resident,” excluding a child of a permanent resident or other eligible person, has not continuously engaged in activities as a spouse for six months or more, except where there is a justifiable reason.

(8) Where a person who has newly become a mid-to-long-term resident as a result of landing permission, permission to change their status of residence or another relevant permission fails to notify the Commissioner of the Immigration Services Agency of their residential address within 90 days after receiving that permission, except where there is a justifiable reason for the failure.

(9) Where a mid-to-long-term resident fails to notify the Commissioner of the Immigration Services Agency of a new residential address within 90 days after leaving the residential address previously reported, except where there is a justifiable reason for the failure.

(10) Where a mid-to-long-term resident reports a false residential address to the Commissioner of the Immigration Services Agency.

Source: Revocation of Status of Residence (Article 22-4 of the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act)

2. Main Reasons for Revocation of Permanent Resident Status and Their Characteristics

The following five situations are the most common reasons why Permanent Resident status may be revoked or lost.

1. Long-Term Stay Outside Japan and Loss of Actual Residence

Permanent Resident status is based on the assumption that the holder has an established living foundation in Japan. As a general indication, the risk increases when a person remains outside Japan for more than one year.

Particular care is required in situations such as:

• Overseas employment or assignment
• A temporary return to one’s home country for caregiving, childbirth or similar reasons

One of the most common situations in which a person loses Permanent Resident status is when they leave Japan without obtaining a re-entry permit and remain outside Japan for more than one year.

A person may generally re-enter Japan under the special re-entry permit system if they return within one year. However, if they remain outside Japan for more than one year without a valid re-entry permit, their status of residence may expire in the same way as other statuses of residence.

A re-entry permit must generally be obtained while the person is still in Japan. If the procedure was forgotten, a Japanese embassy or consulate overseas will normally be unable to issue the permit retroactively.

When leaving Japan, particularly where the period of absence may be extended, it is advisable to obtain a re-entry permit in advance as a precaution.

2. Permanent Residence Obtained Through False Information or Improper Means

A typical ground for revocation is where the application used to obtain permanent residence contained false information or involved fraudulent conduct.

• Sham marriage
• Falsified employment history or false tax payment certificates
• Obtaining permanent residence through the establishment of a company with no genuine business activity

Applications for permanent residence based on a spouse-related status are examined carefully, and any fraud or misrepresentation may also be treated strictly during revocation proceedings.

3. Unpaid Taxes and Social Insurance Contributions

Compliance with Japanese laws and public obligations is fundamental to maintaining Permanent Resident status. Non-payment or arrears involving the following obligations may create serious risks.

• Resident tax
• National Health Insurance premiums
• National Pension contributions
• Withholding tax obligations where the permanent resident is a corporate representative

Where immediate full payment is difficult, entering into an installment payment arrangement and continuing to make payments may demonstrate efforts to improve the situation. Early action is therefore important.

4. Criminal Offenses and Convictions

Certain criminal records or convictions may result in revocation or other immigration consequences. Immigration authorities consider the seriousness of the offense and its effect on public safety and public welfare.

• Fraud or violent offenses
• Violations involving stimulants or illegal drugs
• Serious traffic offenses, including hit-and-run incidents

5. Failure to Report a Change of Address

When a permanent resident moves to a new address, they must notify the municipal office of the new residential address and update their residence card within 14 days after establishing the new address.

Under the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act, failure to complete a required notification, including a change-of-address notification, may be punishable by a fine of up to 200,000 yen. In addition, failure to report a new address or the submission of a false address may constitute grounds for revocation of status of residence.

3. What to Do After Receiving a Revocation Notice

Revocation of Permanent Resident status is not normally decided without prior notice. The person is generally notified in writing, such as through a notice of hearing or notice inviting the submission of an opinion, and is given an opportunity to explain the circumstances or submit supporting materials.

However, the response period may be short. You should check the deadline stated in the notice immediately and begin preparing without delay.

1. Consult a Specialist and Organize the Facts and Evidence

Review the reason stated in the notice and all related materials, and identify the facts and evidence that may support your position. For example, where tax arrears are involved, evidence of payment or an approved payment arrangement may be relevant. Where a long stay outside Japan is involved, documents showing an ongoing living foundation in Japan may be important.

2. Prepare a Written Opinion or Statement

The conduct in question, the background circumstances and any efforts to correct the situation should be explained carefully. Rather than relying only on an emotional appeal, it is important to present logically supported information concerning correction of the violation, measures to prevent recurrence and the stability of the person’s life in Japan.

3. Attend the Hearing Procedure

During the hearing, the person may explain their position directly to the official in charge. Assistance from a specialist can help avoid misunderstandings and ensure that relevant facts and documents are presented appropriately.

Proper preparation may improve the possibility of avoiding revocation or reducing the severity of the resulting immigration action. However, ignoring the notice may lead to further procedures, including deportation proceedings in some cases. If you receive a notice, seek professional advice promptly.

4. Can Permanent Resident Status Be Obtained Again After Revocation?

It may be possible to obtain Permanent Resident status again after it has been revoked. However, a future application will be examined carefully, particularly in relation to the following points.

• A sufficient period to rebuild trust
  The applicant may need to establish a period of compliant and stable conduct before a new application is considered. The appropriate period varies depending on the reason for the previous revocation and the individual circumstances.
• Whether effective measures have been taken to prevent recurrence
  If delayed tax payments caused the problem, evidence of full payment or continuing installment payments may be required. If the issue involved a long absence from Japan, documents showing stable employment, housing and residence in Japan may be important.
• The stability of the applicant’s living foundation in Japan
  Stable income, family life, housing and other ongoing connections with Japan may be considered when determining whether the applicant has a genuine and sustainable basis for living in Japan.

The key issue in a future application is evidence that the previous deficiency or violation has been corrected and has not occurred again. It is advisable to develop a clear rebuilding plan and prepare supporting documents with professional assistance.

Loss of Permanent Resident status does not necessarily mean that permanent residence can never be obtained again. By correcting the underlying problem and following the appropriate procedures, it may be possible to establish stable residence in Japan again.

5. Essential Steps to Protect Your Permanent Resident Status

Many people mistakenly believe that Permanent Resident status is completely secure because it does not require renewal. In reality, however, proper maintenance and management are essential. By continuing to follow the points below, you can minimize the risk of revocation.

• Pay taxes and social insurance contributions by the applicable deadlines
  From April 2027, the permanent residence system is expected to be subject to stricter administration, and payment records for taxes, health insurance premiums and pension contributions are likely to receive greater attention. If you have any arrears, it is important to arrange full payment or an installment payment plan as soon as possible and maintain records showing continued payment.
• Complete all required notifications concerning changes of address, employment and other circumstances
  Repeated failures to report changes of address or employment may reduce your credibility. Whenever a relevant change occurs, complete the required notification promptly.
• Plan ahead and maintain your living foundation in Japan during overseas stays
  If you will remain outside Japan for an extended period, keep documents showing that your principal living base remains in Japan, such as your resident record, employment contract and evidence of family relationships in Japan.
• Report changes in family circumstances, including divorce or separation
  If your family or marital circumstances change and you fail to report the change, this may create suspicions concerning the authenticity of your status or previous application.

Permanent Resident status is not an unconditional “right.” It is a status of residence maintained through continued compliance and an ongoing connection with Japanese society.
Careful management of everyday matters helps protect your future stability in Japan.

6. Questions and Answers About Revocation of Permanent Resident Status

Q1. I stayed outside Japan for a long time. Can my Permanent Resident status be revoked without my knowledge?

No. In general, revocation is not suddenly finalized without any prior procedure. The immigration authorities will first provide an opportunity to submit an opinion or attend a hearing, allowing you to explain the circumstances and submit supporting documents.
The key point is to provide specific evidence showing that you have continued to maintain your principal living base in Japan.

After receiving a notice, it is important to begin preparing within the stated deadline, which is often approximately one to two weeks. Consult a specialist promptly and proceed in the following order: organize the facts → collect supporting documents → prepare a written opinion.

Q2. If my Permanent Resident status is revoked, can I never obtain it again?

It may be possible to obtain Permanent Resident status again. However, you must demonstrate through the passage of time and a record of compliant conduct that the reason for the previous revocation has been resolved and that the same type of problem has not occurred again. Immigration authorities generally focus on the following three points.

1. Period required to rebuild trust: To demonstrate that improved conduct has become firmly established, a record of approximately one to five years may be required as a general indication.
2. Measures to prevent recurrence and evidence that they are being followed: If the problem involved payment arrears, records of full payment or continued installment payments may be required. If the problem involved actual residence, evidence such as employment, housing and living with family members in Japan may be important.
3. Stability of the applicant’s living foundation: Stable income, appropriate tax and social insurance payments, and connections with the local community are assessed together when considering whether the applicant has a reasonable and sustainable basis for living in Japan.

When reapplying, the key is to present what went wrong, what has been improved and how stable your current situation is as one coherent explanation supported by evidence.

Q3. Will my Permanent Resident status be revoked immediately if I have unpaid taxes?

Tax arrears do not necessarily result in immediate revocation. The important issue is whether the cause has been addressed and improvement is continuing.

• Immediate action: Arrange an installment payment plan with the municipal office or tax office, and keep copies of the agreement, payment slips and records of completed payments.
• Key evidence: If the amount has been fully paid, submit evidence of full payment. If you are paying in installments, submit documents showing both the payment plan and your payment record. A system designed to prevent recurrence, such as automatic salary deductions, may strengthen your explanation.

If there were unavoidable circumstances, such as financial hardship, illness or a change in employment, explain the background carefully. It is important to present the reason, the current improvement and the future outlook together.

Q4. I forgot to report a change of address. Will this affect my Permanent Resident status?

Permanent residents are not generally required to report a change of employment, but reporting a change of address is a legal obligation imposed on all foreign residents under Article 19-7 of the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act.
A prolonged failure to report or circumstances that may be regarded as a false declaration can create doubts about your actual residence. When combined with other factors, this may increase the risk of revocation.

• Correct the situation as soon as you notice it: Submit the notification at the relevant municipal office and explain why the notification was delayed.
• Documents showing your living foundation in Japan: Prepare documents such as a lease agreement, utility contracts, salary statements and a resident record to clearly establish that you actually live in Japan.

Your registered address is an important indicator of whether your principal living base is in Japan. Even if a delayed notification appears minor, credibility may be restored through a careful explanation and well-organized supporting evidence.
If you are concerned, please consult us as early as possible.

Q5. Which is more secure, Permanent Resident status or Japanese nationality?

From the perspective of long-term stability, Permanent Resident status is subject to a revocation system, whereas Japanese nationality is generally not subject to the same type of revocation mechanism, although serious exceptional circumstances may exist.
However, naturalization has requirements relating to language ability, conduct and financial stability, and it is not necessarily suitable for everyone immediately.

• Advantages of permanent residence: Few restrictions on permitted activities and no renewal requirement. However, taxes, social insurance and required notifications must still be properly managed.
• Advantages of naturalization: The person is no longer subject to restrictions based on a status of residence and, in principle, does not face the same revocation risk. However, naturalization involves eligibility screening and procedural costs.

Consider whether to maintain Permanent Resident status or apply for naturalization in light of your future plans, including long-term residence in Japan, your children’s education, inheritance and asset planning. If you are unsure, ACROSEED Immigration Lawyer’s Office can review your circumstances and propose an appropriate option.

Q6. Will Permanent Resident status become easier to revoke from April 2027?

No. The legal changes planned for April 2027 mainly concern the review of standards and administration relating to permanent residence. They do not mean that the status of all current permanent residents will automatically become easier to revoke.

However, the government has indicated that tax payment records and the payment of social insurance and pension contributions will receive greater attention. Permanent residents should therefore continue to pay taxes and social insurance contributions properly and maintain a stable life in Japan.

Q7. What should I do in daily life to prevent revocation of my Permanent Resident status?

To maintain Permanent Resident status, it is important to follow basic rules such as the following.

• Pay taxes, social insurance contributions and pension contributions by the applicable deadlines
• Do not forget required notifications, including changes of address
• Check your re-entry permit before remaining outside Japan for an extended period
• Avoid criminal offenses and serious violations of law
• Maintain a stable living foundation in Japan

Permanent Resident status does not require renewal, but holders are still expected to comply with Japanese law and continue living in Japan on a stable basis after obtaining the status. Proper day-to-day immigration management is one of the most important ways to protect your status.

Q8. Should I consult an immigration lawyer if my Permanent Resident status may be revoked?

Yes. If you receive a notice inviting the submission of an opinion or a notice of hearing from the immigration authorities, you should consult an immigration lawyer or another qualified specialist as soon as possible.

During revocation proceedings, you may need to explain the circumstances and submit evidence within a limited period. It is important to organize documents such as proof of full tax payment, evidence of actual residence in Japan and records showing improvement, and to submit a persuasive written opinion.

The earlier you respond, the greater the possibility of avoiding revocation. If you are concerned, consulting a specialist before any notice arrives may also provide reassurance.

7. Permanent Residence Approval Case Studies

In this section, we introduce actual approved cases in which applicants successfully obtained Permanent Residence in Japan after holding various residence statuses, such as Spouse of Japanese National, Long-Term Resident, and Work Visas.

	VOL.112 Mr. R (China)
	[Ongoing Support Case] From Spouse Visa to Long-Term Resident, and Finally to Permanent Residence

	Client (from Google Reviews)
	[Ongoing Support Case] Tourist Visa → Work Visa → Spouse Visa → Permanent Residence

	VOL.80 Mr. Z (China)
	[Approved Case] Permanent Residence Approved After Rejection Due to Unpaid Taxes

View More Permanent Residence Approval Cases

Voices from Our Clients on Google Reviews

8. Summary: Revocation of Permanent Resident Status

Permanent Resident status is one of the most stable statuses of residence for living in Japan, but it may still be lost if it is not managed properly. The most important points are continued compliance with Japanese law and the maintenance of a stable living foundation in Japan.

Because Permanent Resident status does not require periodic renewal, some people may overlook procedures such as obtaining or checking a re-entry permit or renewing their residence card. However, failure to complete the necessary procedures may result in the loss or revocation of Permanent Resident status, so careful management is essential.

If you have concerns, such as a prolonged absence from Japan, please consult a specialist as early as possible. Depending on your circumstances, ACROSEED Immigration Lawyer’s Office can provide practical support aimed at avoiding revocation and preparing for a future permanent residence application.

9. ACROSEED’s Support System

When applying for Permanent Residence in Japan, an applicant is required to appoint a guarantor. However, this does not mean that the guarantor bears unlimited legal responsibility for all aspects of the applicant’s conduct or daily life.
The Immigration Bureau conducts a comprehensive review not only of the guarantor’s presence, but also of the relationship between the applicant and the guarantor, the guarantor’s understanding of their role, and the applicant’s overall living stability and long-term settlement prospects.

At ACROSEED Immigration Lawyer's Office, we provide guidance from the pre-application stage, carefully clarifying who can serve as a guarantor and what the actual scope of responsibility is. Based on the guarantor’s status as a Japanese national or permanent resident, the relationship with the applicant, and how the request is explained, we design the application so that misunderstandings and unnecessary concerns are avoided, ensuring an appropriate selection of a guarantor and a well-structured application.

Nationwide Support: Online and email-based management, same quality anywhere in Japan.

Multilingual: Consultations available in English and Chinese.

Clear Progress Tracking: Check application status and required documents online.

Complex Cases Supported: Extensive experience with reapplications after rejection.

Transparent Fees: Clear pricing with minimal additional costs.

Support Even After Rejection: Free reapplication support until approval.

Information Security: Proper data management based on ISO27001 standards.

10. Popular Pages Related to Permanent Residency Applications

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Reapplication Guide After Permanent Residency Refusal

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