Permanent residence

229 entries · 226 confirmed · Rulebook checked on 2026-10-23.

Every statement on this site that states a rule traces to an entry here. Each entry cites an official document, quotes it, and shows when we checked it. Entries that are not confirmed are marked and are not used as fact.

What it is · 37 Who qualifies · 49 Numbers and tests · 10 Periods · 29 Deadlines · 6 Fees · 6 How it works · 32 Penalties · 5 Lists and tables · 32 Recent changes · 21

What it is

The Immigration Services Agency says that writing 'compliance with obligations under the Act and payment of taxes and public charges' into the permanent-residence test merely codifies the 'proper performance of public duties' the guidelines already required; it adds no new requirement and does not tighten the conditions.
Quote from the source
新たな永住許可の要件を加えるものではなく、許可の要件を厳格化するものでもありません
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可制度の適正化Q＆A Ｑ７ · Checked on 2026-10-22
Permanent residence is described as the most stable legal status, with no limit on activities or period of stay, so applications are to be examined with particular care.
Quote from the source
特に慎重な審査を行う必要があります
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年１０月１日改定）第1の1 · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
The national-interest condition requires more than not harming Japan: the applicant's permanent residence must positively and concretely benefit the country.
Quote from the source
積極的かつ具体的に当該外国人の永住が日本国に利益をもたらす必要があります
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年１０月１日改定）第2の5(1) · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
In the October 2026 guideline, 'work-purpose status' excludes Technical Intern Training, Employment for Skill Development, Specified Skilled Worker (i), Intra-company Transferee and some Designated Activities, so time in those statuses does not count toward the 5-year work-status period.
Quote from the source
「技能実習」、「育成就労」、「特定技能１号」、「企業内転勤」及び一部の「特定活動」
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年１０月１日改定）第2の4(2)注２ · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
In the February 2026 guideline only Technical Intern Training and Specified Skilled Worker (i) are carved out of the work-status years counted toward the 5-year work-or-residence-status requirement.
Quote from the source
就労資格（在留資格「技能実習」及び「特定技能１号」を除く。）又は居住資格をもって引き続き５年以上在留していることを要する
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年２月２４日改訂） 1(3)ア · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2026-02-24
Periods in Designated Activities that are only temporary or exceptional, such as continued job-hunting, a confirmed job offer, start-up activity by graduates or refugee-application pending, are not counted in the 10-year period.
Quote from the source
特例的、かつ、一時的に本邦に在留することが認められているものについては、この「１０年」の期間に算定しません
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年１０月１日改定）第5 · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
Income of household members who hold a status not aimed at work, such as Dependent, is not added to the household income, because they may earn only under limited permission.
Quote from the source
このような在留資格をもって在留する者の収入の額は、申請者の属する世帯の世帯年収の額に合算する対象とはなりません
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年１０月１日改定）第2の4(2) · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2026-10-01
Relatives the applicant supports, including those living abroad, are added to the household size even if they do not live with the applicant, and households of five or more get a higher income benchmark.
Quote from the source
申請者が扶養する親族（外国に住む親族を含みます。）がいる場合には、当該親族が申請者と同居していない場合であっても、申請者の属する世帯人数に加算します
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年１０月１日改定）第2の4(2) · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2026-10-01
The prison-sentence revocation ground requires an actual prison sentence, so fines, road-traffic offences and negligent driving causing death or injury are not covered.
Quote from the source
処罰の内容も拘禁刑に処せられたことが要件となっていますから、罰金刑に処せられた場合も、対象とはなりません
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可制度の適正化Q＆A Ｑ１１ · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
'Deliberately' not paying means knowing a payment is due and choosing not to pay; the guideline lists unexplained relocation, repeatedly broken instalment promises, tax-evasion convictions and hiding assets as examples.
Quote from the source
支払義務があることを認識しているにもかかわらず、あえて支払をしない場合をいいます
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住者の在留資格の取消しに関するガイドライン（令和８年１０月１日策定）第2の2(2) · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
Fines and traffic penalties are not 'public charges' for revocation, but unfiled returns count if the obligation to file and pay was clear.
Quote from the source
交通違反による罰金・反則金は、公租公課には含まれません
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住者の在留資格の取消しに関するガイドライン（令和８年１０月１日策定）第2の2(1) · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
Naturalization takes effect on the date the Minister's permission is announced in the Official Gazette.
Quote from the source
帰化は、前項の告示の日から効力を生ずる
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
国籍法（e-Gov 法令検索）第10条第2項 · Checked on 2026-10-22
Unlike permanent residence, naturalization means acquiring Japanese nationality, after which the person is no longer subject to immigration residence management.
Quote from the source
帰化した場合には、入管法に基づく在留管理の対象とはされなくなります
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可制度の適正化Q＆A Ｑ１ · Checked on 2026-10-22
Under the revocation guideline, a prison sentence counts toward the revocation ground whatever its length, including a sentence whose execution is suspended.
Quote from the source
刑期の長短を問わず、拘禁刑の執行が猶予された場合も含まれます
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住者の在留資格の取消しに関するガイドライン第２３ · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
The ISA also declined to name the statistic, base year, definition, coverage or update method behind the 'average income of Japanese households by household size', so neither the Comprehensive Survey of Living Conditions nor the Basic Survey on Wage Structure is stated as the source.
Quote from the source
永住許可の審査は申請者の個々の事情を総合的に勘案して行うものであるところ、年収水準等の具体的な額については、審査の
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン案改定に係る意見募集の結果について（別紙：御意見の要旨及び御意見に対する考え方） No.34 (別紙) · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2026-10-01
The target pension level is defined as the pension a person would be expected to draw after 30 years in the employees' pension scheme at an income above the Japanese household average, and the applicant's own expected pension is estimated from age, the whole enrolment history including self-employed periods, the average income in those periods and current income.
Quote from the source
申請時点の年齢、申請時点までを含む加入対象期間全ての年金の加入状況（従前の働き方（自営業、会社員等）、年金加入期間、その期間の平均年収等）及び申請時点の年収から推計される将来において受給可能な年金の見込額
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年１０月１日改定）第2の4(3) · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
Public-dues compliance is examined per household of shared livelihood, so a spouse's or household member's arrears can count in the applicant's assessment.
Quote from the source
この考慮要素については、原則として同一生計世帯単位で審査を行います。
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年１０月１日改定）第2の5(3) · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
Receiving protection treated in line with the Public Assistance Act counts as being a public burden now, and the ISA also weighs whether there were special reasons for the situation, with family-unit stability and humanitarian considerations stressed.
Quote from the source
生活保護法の取扱いに準じた保護措置を受けている場合は、現に公共の負担となっているものと考えられます。
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン案改定に係る意見募集の結果について（別紙：御意見の要旨及び御意見に対する考え方） No.40, No.41 (別紙) · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2026-10-01
The pending-case reach of the early-applied provisions covers applications filed on or after the date six months before the 1 October 2026 revision date, which is 1 April 2026, and still pending on 1 October 2026; the ISA chose six months because its standard processing time is four to six months.
Quote from the source
ただし、上記第２の４（２）及び第２の５（７）は、本ガイドラインの改定日から６か月前の日以降の申請であって、かつ、改定日において申請中である案件にも適用します。
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年１０月１日改定）第6 · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2026-10-01
The obligations that can ground revocation under the 'fails to comply with this Act' limb are those backed by the penalties in Chapter IX of the Immigration Control Act and not already deportation grounds, in practice the duties to carry and show the residence card, to apply to renew or reissue the card, and the bans on forging cards or harbouring illegal entrants (attempts).
Quote from the source
入管法第９章（罰則）によってその遵守が担保されているものであり、かつ、退去強制事由（入管法第２４条各号）に該当しないものを対象としており
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住者の在留資格の取消しに関するガイドライン第2の1(1)(3) · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
A permanent resident who actually runs or controls a company can fall under the tax ground if they know the company owes taxes or charges and deliberately do not pay them.
Quote from the source
法人に課税等される場合において、当該永住者がその公租公課の支払義務を認識し、その法人を経営又は管理に実質的に関与する立場にありながらあえて支払をしないとき
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住者の在留資格の取消しに関するガイドライン第2の2(1) · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
After an ex officio change from permanent resident, the status granted is in most cases Long-Term Resident, and the later renewal of the stay period re-checks payment of taxes and public charges and compliance with the Immigration Control Act.
Quote from the source
当該在留資格に伴う在留期間の更新手続等において引き続き公租公課の支払状況等を確認していくこととなります。
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住者の在留資格の取消しに関するガイドライン第4の2(1)(2) · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
Under the law as it stands now, a permanent resident can already lose status for failing without good reason to report a new address within 90 days, for a false address or for obtaining permission by improper means, and can be deported after a life sentence or a prison sentence of more than one year or a drug conviction.
Quote from the source
住居地から退去して正当な理由なく９０日以内に新住居地の届出をしない場合や虚偽の住居地を届け出た場合、不正の手段等により永住許可を受けた場合は、「永住者」の在留資格が取り消されることがあります。
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可制度の適正化Q＆A Ｑ３ · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2026-10-01
The ISA justifies the new grounds by saying that permanent residents face no renewal screening, so it needs a way to respond to the minority who stop paying public dues, and calls the measure proportionate rather than excessive.
Quote from the source
一部において、永住許可後には、公租公課の支払をしないといった、永住許可制度の趣旨に反するような事例も見受けられます。
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可制度の適正化Q＆A Ｑ４〜Ｑ６ · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2026-10-01
Supplementary Provision 25 of Act No. 60 of 2024 directs that, when the revocation ground in new Article 22-4(1)(viii) is applied to Permanent Residents (breach of duties under the Act or wilful non-payment of public charges), due consideration be given to the person's past payment record, current living situation and other circumstances.
Quote from the source
同号に該当すると思料される外国人の従前の公租公課の支払状況及び現在の生活状況その他の当該外国人の置かれている状況に十分配慮するものとする。
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
出入国管理及び難民認定法（令和6年法律第60号による改正後・2027-04-01施行版）令和6年法律第60号附則第25条 · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
The ISA's summary of the revision describes the required Japanese level as CEFR B1 of the Japanese-language reference framework, the 'independent user' level.
Quote from the source
日本語能力： CEFR（日本語教育参照枠）・B1相当（自立した言語使用者）を求める
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン改定（案）（概要）概要 · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2026-08-04
The guideline defines a 'work-purpose status' by exclusion: every status meant for work except those with limits such as no family accompaniment, namely Technical Intern Training, Employment for Skill Development, Specified Skilled Worker (i), Intra-company Transferee and some Designated Activities.
Quote from the source
就労することを目的とする在留資格であって、家族の帯同が認められないなど一定の制約がある「技能実習」、「育成就労」、「特定技能１号」、「企業内転勤」及び一部の「特定活動」
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年１０月１日改定）第2の4(2)注２ · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
The ISA status table labels Appendix I tables 1 and 2 as work statuses, tables 3 and 4 as non-working statuses (Cultural Activities, Temporary Visitor, Student, Trainee, Dependent), table 5 as Designated Activities, and Appendix II (Permanent Resident, Spouse or Child of Japanese National, Spouse or Child of Permanent Resident, Long-Term Resident) as residence statuses.
Quote from the source
入管法別表第二の上欄の在留資格（居住資格）
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
在留資格一覧表別表第一・別表第二 · Checked on 2026-10-22
The February 2026 guideline excludes Technical Intern Training and Specified Skilled Worker (i) from the work statuses that count toward the 5 continuous years required in a work or residence status, so time spent in those statuses does not count toward the 5 years.
Quote from the source
就労資格（在留資格「技能実習」及び「特定技能１号」を除く。）又は居住資格をもって引き続き５年以上在留していることを要する。
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年２月２４日改訂） 1(3)ア · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2026-02-24
In the Immigration Control Act a guarantor is a person who promises the Minister of Justice to give financial backing and guidance on law-abiding living when needed so that the foreigner can stay stably and continue to pursue the purpose of the stay.
Quote from the source
必要に応じて当該外国人の経済的保証及び法令の遵守等の生活指導を行う旨を法務大臣に約束する人をいいます
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
出入国審査・在留審査Q&A Ｑ５３ · Checked on 2026-10-22
For its regional-revitalisation special case, the October 2026 guideline cites paragraph 15 of Article 5 of the Regional Revitalisation Act as the basis of the approved plan.
Quote from the source
地域再生法（平成１７年法律第２４号）第５条第１５項に基づき認定された地域再生計画
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年１０月１日改定）第3の5 · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
The Ministry of Justice naturalisation Q&A states that the 5-year continuous domicile must be lawful, meaning the applicant must hold a proper residence status; that page gives no rule on absences or status gaps interrupting the period.
Quote from the source
なお、住所は、適法なものでなければなりませんので、正当な在留資格を有していなければなりません。
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
国籍Ｑ＆Ａ（法務省民事局）Ｑ９ 1 · Checked on 2026-10-22
At the end of 2025, 947,125 foreigners held the Permanent Resident status, the largest status group among 4,125,395 foreign residents.
Quote from the source
在留資格別では、「永住者」が94万7,125人と最も多く
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
令和７年の出入国在留管理業務の状況在留外国人数 · Checked on 2026-10-22
The ISA stated in the public-comment answers that the guideline revision is part of normalising the permanent-residence system and does not aim to lower the approval rate or the number of approvals, though no annual counts of approvals and refusals are published on the pages I could read.
Quote from the source
本ガイドラインの改定は、永住許可制度の適正化の一環として行おうとするものであって、永住許可申請の許可率や許可数の低減
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン案改定に係る意見募集の結果について（別紙：御意見の要旨及び御意見に対する考え方） No.6 (別紙) · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2026-10-01
Partly confirmed: The October 2026 guideline states the exclusion from the 10-year residence period only for Designated Activities types that are exceptional and temporary (such as job hunting or a pending refugee procedure) and names no exclusion of Technical Intern Training, Employment for Skill Development, Specified Skilled Worker (i) or Intra-company Transferee time from the 10 years, so that time is read as counting toward the 10 years.
Quote from the source
特例的、かつ、一時的に本邦に在留することが認められているものについては、この「１０年」の期間に算定しません。
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年１０月１日改定）第5の1 · Checked on 2026-10-23 · In force from 2027-04-01
The February 2026 guideline cites paragraph 16 of Article 5 of the Regional Revitalisation Act as the basis of the approved plan in its regional-revitalisation special case.
Quote from the source
地域再生法（平成１７年法律第２４号）第５条第１６項に基づき認定された地域再生計画
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年２月２４日改訂） 2(5) · Checked on 2026-10-23 · In force from 2026-02-24
In the Regional Revitalisation Act as published on e-Gov (revision of 1 June 2025), paragraph 15 of Article 5 is the paragraph under which the Prime Minister certifies a regional revitalisation plan, and paragraph 16 concerns asking the Regional Revitalisation Headquarters for its opinion.
Quote from the source
１５内閣総理大臣は、第一項の規定による認定の申請があった場合において、地域再生計画のうち第二項各号に掲げる事項に係る部分が次に掲げる基準に適合すると認めるときは、その認定をするものとする。
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
地域再生法第5条第15項・第16項 · Checked on 2026-10-23 · In force from 2025-06-01

Who qualifies

Under the Immigration Control Act as in force on 1 October 2026, the Minister of Justice may grant permanent residence only to a person who meets both the good-conduct and independent-livelihood conditions and whose permanent residence is judged to benefit Japan.
Quote from the source
その者が次の各号のいずれにも適合し、かつ、その者の永住が日本国の利益に合すると認めたときに限り、これを許可することができる
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
出入国管理及び難民認定法（e-Gov 法令検索・2026-10-01施行時点）第22条第2項 · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2026-10-01
A spouse or child of a Japanese national, a permanent resident or a special permanent resident does not have to meet the good-conduct and independent-livelihood conditions, and a person recognised as needing protection by UNHCR or a similar international body and meeting the ministerial-ordinance conditions is exempt from the livelihood condition.
Quote from the source
日本人、永住許可を受けている者又は特別永住者の配偶者又は子である場合にあつては次の各号のいずれにも適合することを要せず
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
出入国管理及び難民認定法（e-Gov 法令検索・2026-10-01施行時点）第22条第2項ただし書 · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2026-10-01
The applicant should hold the longest period of stay available for the current status; for filings made up to 31 March 2027 a 3-year period is treated as the longest, and someone who still holds a 3-year period on 31 March 2027 gets the same treatment only for a first application filed from 1 April 2027 and decided before that period ends.
Quote from the source
令和９年３月３１日までに申請があった永住許可申請においては、在留期間「３年」を有する者であっても
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年１０月１日改定）第2の5(6)注４ · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2026-10-01
The shortened-residence exceptions do not apply to people who received special permission to stay or landing after a landing-denial ground applied; they must first reside 10 years after that permission.
Quote from the source
原則どおり引き続き１０年以上本邦に在留していることが求められます
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年１０月１日改定）第3注５ · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
The livelihood test expects economic conditions at or above the level of Japanese households, both now and in the future, and is judged per household living on the same budget.
Quote from the source
具体的には、現在及び将来において自活可能と認められる必要があり、日本人と同等水準以上の経済条件が求められます
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年１０月１日改定）第2の4(1) · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
If the expected pension falls short, financial assets that can cover the shortfall are treated as making up the gap, and the required asset amount is lower for younger applicants.
Quote from the source
申請時点において、受給年金水準に不足する生活資金を補填可能な金融資産（以下「補填資産」といいます。）を有すると認められるとき
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年１０月１日改定）第2の4(3) · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
Good conduct means obeying the law and living without social reproach; repeated illegal or nuisance acts lead to failing the requirement.
Quote from the source
法律を遵守し日常生活においても住民として社会的に非難されることのない生活を営んでいることをいいます
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年１０月１日改定）第2の3 · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
Unpaid public charges count against the applicant; 'public taxes' cover income, residence, corporate and property taxes, and 'public charges' include public health insurance and pension premiums.
Quote from the source
「公租」は、所得税、住民税、法人税、固定資産税等の租税全般をいい
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年１０月１日改定）第2の5(3) · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
Even if nothing is owed at the time of application, a past record of non-payment, such as a distraint, is generally counted against the applicant.
Quote from the source
申請時点において公租公課の未納がなかったとしても、過去に滞納処分を受けたことがあるなど、過去において適切に支払っていない状況が認められる場合も、原則として消極評価をします
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年１０月１日改定）第2の5(3) · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
The February 2026 guideline already states that tax or premium payments made after the original due date, even if settled by the time of filing, are generally assessed negatively.
Quote from the source
申請時点において納税（納付）済みであったとしても、当初の納税（納付）期間内に履行されていない場合は、原則として消極的に評価されます
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年２月２４日改訂） 1(3)イ※ · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2026-02-24
Failure to follow Immigration Act duties such as address notification and carrying the residence card counts against the applicant, including past violations discovered later.
Quote from the source
申請時点で現に義務違反の状態にある場合のみならず、過去の義務違反が判明した場合についても、原則として消極評価をします
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年１０月１日改定）第2の5(2) · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
A past prison sentence, fine, or juvenile protective measure is, in principle, assessed negatively.
Quote from the source
過去に拘禁刑（懲役、禁錮を含む。）や罰金刑を受けた者
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年１０月１日改定）第2の5(4) · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
A person who falls under a ground for denial of landing is assessed negatively, and so is someone whose current status fails the landing-permission standards.
Quote from the source
法第５条第１項各号に規定する上陸拒否事由に該当する外国人に対して永住を許可することは相当ではない
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年１０月１日改定）第2の5(5) · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
Applicants are expected to have Japanese at CEFR level B1 or above, unless they are exempt.
Quote from the source
Ｂ１相当レベル以上の日本語能力を有しているかを考慮要素とします
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年１０月１日改定）第2の5(8) · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
The B1 Japanese factor is not applied where requiring it is not necessary or appropriate, for example for highly skilled applicants and their families, people with at least six cumulative years of primary or secondary schooling under the School Education Act, or a Japan-born child of a permanent resident whose raising parent has B1 or above.
Quote from the source
学校教育法が規定する初等教育又は中等教育を累計６年以上受けた場合
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年１０月１日改定）第2の5(8) · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
Applicants are checked on their understanding of Japan's systems and rules, centred on the Life and Work Guidebook, by a method the ISA Commissioner designates.
Quote from the source
「生活・就労ガイドブック」に記載されている事項を中心に、我が国の制度・ルール等を理解しているかの確認を行い
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年１０月１日改定）第2の5(9) · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
A parent raising school-age children is expected to have them attending elementary or junior high school, and an applicant of school age must attend school.
Quote from the source
子が小学校又は中学校に通学していること
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年１０月１日改定）第2の5(10) · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
Contribution to the government's January 2026 comprehensive measures, such as spreading specified residence cards and learning Japanese and Japanese rules, is also weighed in the national-interest test.
Quote from the source
各施策への貢献・寄与についても、その者の永住が日本国の利益に合するかどうかを判断する考慮要素となります
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年１０月１日改定）第2の5(11) · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
Non-payment caused by illness, disaster, unemployment or similar unavoidable circumstances, or by an employer failing to remit withheld amounts, is not expected to count as deliberate.
Quote from the source
病気、災害、失業などのやむを得ない事情により支払ができない場合
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住者の在留資格の取消しに関するガイドライン（令和８年１０月１日策定）第2の2(3) · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
A person whose status was changed after a revocation ground can apply for permanent residence again once the requirements are met.
Quote from the source
再度、永住許可を受けることが可能です
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可制度の適正化Q＆A Ｑ１３ · Checked on 2026-10-22
A family member is not revoked or changed merely because of the permanent resident's case, although a spouse holding Spouse of Permanent Resident status must move to another status.
Quote from the source
家族であることを理由として、在留資格の取消し又は「永住者」以外の在留資格への職権変更の対象となるわけではありません
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可制度の適正化Q＆A Ｑ１４ · Checked on 2026-10-22
The Nationality Act sets six minimum conditions for naturalization; the first is continuous domicile in Japan for 5 or more years.
Quote from the source
引き続き五年以上日本に住所を有すること
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
国籍法（e-Gov 法令検索）第5条第1項第1号 · Checked on 2026-10-22
The applicant must be 18 or older and have legal capacity under the law of the home country.
Quote from the source
十八歳以上で本国法によつて行為能力を有すること
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
国籍法（e-Gov 法令検索）第5条第1項第2号 · Checked on 2026-10-22
Good conduct is judged by criminal record, tax payment status and nuisance to society, against the standard of an ordinary person.
Quote from the source
犯罪歴の有無や態様、納税状況や社会への迷惑の有無等を総合的に考慮し
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
帰化について（東京法務局） · Checked on 2026-10-22
The livelihood condition is judged per family living on the same budget, so a spouse's or relative's assets or skills can satisfy it.
Quote from the source
この条件は生計を一つにする親族単位で判断されます
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
帰化について（東京法務局） · Checked on 2026-10-22
Naturalization applicants must be stateless or lose their former nationality on acquiring Japanese nationality; the Minister may make an exception when the person cannot lose that nationality regardless of their will and has special circumstances in family ties or situation connected to Japanese nationals.
Quote from the source
国籍を有せず、又は日本の国籍の取得によつてその国籍を失うべきこと
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
国籍法（e-Gov 法令検索）第5条第1項第5号・第2項 · Checked on 2026-10-22
People who have planned, advocated or joined a group that seeks to overthrow the Japanese government by violence cannot be naturalized.
Quote from the source
日本の政府を暴力で破壊することを企てたり、主張するような方
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
帰化について（東京法務局） · Checked on 2026-10-22
Meeting the legal conditions does not guarantee approval; naturalization is at the Minister's discretion.
Quote from the source
これらの条件を満たしていたとしても、必ず帰化が許可されるとは限りません
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
帰化について（東京法務局） · Checked on 2026-10-22
The Ministry's guidance also expects everyday Japanese ability in speaking, reading and writing, and 10 or more years of residence, as signs of integration.
Quote from the source
日本語能力（会話及び読み書き）を有することや、１０年以上在留していること
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
帰化について（東京法務局） · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2026-04-01
Only liquid financial assets such as bank deposits and securities can make up a pension shortfall, and assets obtained only temporarily for the application and not meant to be kept are not accepted, so applicants will be asked for documents showing the assets are not temporary.
Quote from the source
補填資産は金融資産に限定することとしており、本ガイドラインの改定案への賛成のご意見として承ります。
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン案改定に係る意見募集の結果について（別紙：御意見の要旨及び御意見に対する考え方） No.29, No.37 (別紙) · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2026-10-01
The February 2026 guideline states that if tax or premiums were not paid within the original payment period, this is in principle assessed negatively even when everything has been settled by the time of filing.
Quote from the source
申請時点において納税（納付）済みであったとしても、当初の納税（納付）期間内に履行されていない場合は、原則として消極的に評価されます
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年２月２４日改訂） 1(3)イ※ · Checked on 2026-10-23 · In force from 2026-02-24
For applicants who must meet the livelihood requirement, passing it also counts as a positive point under the 'not a public burden' element (second part 5(7)); this is one of the two October 2026 provisions that also reach filings made from 1 April 2026 that were still pending on the revision date.
Quote from the source
これらの者は、独立生計要件に適合している必要がありますが、同要件に適合していると認められる場合には、本要素も積極評価
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年１０月１日改定）第2の5(7)イ · Checked on 2026-10-23 · In force from 2026-10-01
For applicants exempt from the livelihood requirement, such as spouses and children of Japanese nationals or permanent residents and refugees, the household can still be assessed negatively if it is currently a public burden or is realistically at risk of becoming one without special circumstances.
Quote from the source
申請者の属する世帯が、現に公共の負担となっている場合や、そのおそれが現実的である状況にあり
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年１０月１日改定）第2の5(7)ウ · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2026-10-01
People paying under an instalment or deferral arrangement, those who show willingness to pay when reminded, and those receiving welfare-equivalent assistance are listed as not deliberate non-payers, whereas repeatedly missing instalment deadlines or ignoring reminders is listed as deliberate.
Quote from the source
催告等に応じて支払う意思を示しており、分納や猶予措置を受けている場合
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住者の在留資格の取消しに関するガイドライン第2の2(3) · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
Paying off arrears afterwards, for example through seizure, does not automatically exclude the tax ground, but the amount unpaid, the length of non-payment, whether the person paid in response to the authorities' measures and the later clearing of arrears are all weighed when deciding whether to revoke.
Quote from the source
事後的に公租公課の不払状況が解消された事実も含め個別の事案における公租公課の未納額、未納期間のほか、支払に応じたか否かなどの関係機関の措置への永住者の対応状況等も踏まえて判断することになります
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可制度の適正化Q＆A Ｑ１０ · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
The ISA says forgetting to carry the card or to renew its validity is not meant to lead to cancellation of permanent residence, and that deliberately not paying means knowing a payment is due and having the means to pay but not paying.
Quote from the source
例えば、うっかり在留カードを携帯しなかった場合や在留カードの有効期間の更新をしなかった場合に、在留資格を取り消すことは想定していません。
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可制度の適正化Q＆A Ｑ８・Ｑ９ · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
The ISA has not yet said which proofs of B1 Japanese it will accept (JLPT, J.TEST, NAT-TEST, BJT, school records or course certificates), the minimum scores, how long a result stays valid, or whether self-declaration is allowed; it says the method and the tests to be used will be examined and published before operation starts in April 2027.
Quote from the source
日本語能力の評価方法や、これに用いる試験等については、令和９年４月の運用開始までに適切に検討・公表してまいります。
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン案改定に係る意見募集の結果について（別紙：御意見の要旨及び御意見に対する考え方） No.15, No.55 (別紙) · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
How and when the understanding-of-Japanese-rules check based on the 'Life and Work Guidebook' will be carried out is still undecided; the ISA says it will decide the method before operation begins on 1 April 2027.
Quote from the source
我が国の制度・ルール等への理解の確認方法については、運用開始までに検討してまいります。
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン案改定に係る意見募集の結果について（別紙：御意見の要旨及び御意見に対する考え方） No.53 (別紙) · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
The list of people not required to show B1 Japanese is open-ended: the guideline names highly skilled professionals and their families, people with six or more years of Japanese primary or secondary schooling and children of permanent residents (born in Japan, with a parent at B1) 'and others' for whom requiring it is unnecessary or inappropriate; spouses of Japanese nationals are not named.
Quote from the source
など、その者の永住許可申請においては、必ずしも申請者本人にＢ１相当レベル以上の日本語能力を求める必要性・相当性があるとはいえない場合には、これを考慮要素としません
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年１０月１日改定）第2の5(8) · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
In the public-comment answers the ISA declined to exempt holders of the Spouse or Child of Japanese National status from the Japanese-language factor, because the factor is based on the need to live in the community without difficulty.
Quote from the source
本人の配偶者等」の在留資格をもって在留する者について除外対象とすることは相当ではないと考えられます。
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン案改定に係る意見募集の結果について（別紙：御意見の要旨及び御意見に対する考え方） No.49 (別紙) · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
The ISA's wording is that the guarantor 'normally' is a Japanese national, a permanent resident or a special permanent resident living in Japan, and for spouses 'normally' the spouse; the form also lists an employer or other guarantor as possible relationships, and no minimum income or tax condition for the guarantor is published.
Quote from the source
※ 身元保証人には、通常、配偶者の方になっていただきます。
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可申請１（日本人・永住者・特別永住者の配偶者又はその実子等の方） 11(1) · Checked on 2026-10-22
The 2017 'contribution to Japan' guideline required an applicant to fall under a listed category and also to have stayed in Japan for at least five years without causing social problems; the common categories were Nobel-class international prizes, Japanese government awards such as the People's Honour Award and decorations, about three or more years as a government committee member and major contribution through medical, education or other work.
Quote from the source
次のいずれかに該当し，かつ，５年以上日本において社会生活上問題を生ぜしめることなく滞在してきたこと。
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
「我が国への貢献」に関するガイドライン（平成29年4月26日改定） 1 各分野に共通 · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2017-04-26
Article 5(1)(iii) of the Nationality Act makes good conduct a condition of naturalization, and the statute itself gives no definition or test of it.
Quote from the source
素行が善良であること。
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
国籍法第5条第1項第3号 · Checked on 2026-10-22
Article 5(1)(iv) lets the livelihood condition be met through the assets or skills of the applicant or of a spouse or other relative with whom the applicant shares a livelihood.
Quote from the source
自己又は生計を一にする配偶者その他の親族の資産又は技能によつて生計を営むことができること
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
国籍法第5条第1項第4号 · Checked on 2026-10-22
Article 8 lets four groups be naturalized without the 5-year domicile, the age-and-capacity condition and the livelihood condition: a non-adopted child of a Japanese national with a domicile in Japan; an adopted child of a Japanese national with 1 year of continuous domicile who was a minor at adoption under home-country law; a person who lost Japanese nationality (other than one who lost it after naturalizing in Japan) and has a domicile in Japan; and a person born in Japan who has been stateless since birth with 3 continuous years of domicile.
Quote from the source
その者が第五条第一項第一号、第二号及び第四号の条件を備えないときでも、帰化を許可することができる
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
国籍法第8条 · Checked on 2026-10-22
Article 9 allows the Minister of Justice, with the approval of the Diet, to naturalize a foreigner of special merit to Japan regardless of the ordinary conditions of Article 5(1).
Quote from the source
日本に特別の功労のある外国人については、法務大臣は、第五条第一項の規定にかかわらず、国会の承認を得て、その帰化を許可することができる。
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
国籍法第9条 · Checked on 2026-10-22
The Tokyo Legal Affairs Bureau page (updated 1 April 2026) says that Articles 6 to 8 of the Nationality Act relax some conditions for people with a special tie to Japan such as those born in Japan or spouses of Japanese nationals, and, as a separate sentence of the same section, says that integration into Japanese society, including 10 or more years of residence, is required.
Quote from the source
なお、日本と特別な関係を有する外国人（日本で生まれた者、日本人の配偶者、日本人の子、かつて日本人であった者等で、一定の者）については、上記の帰化の条件を一部緩和しています（国籍法第６条から第８条まで）。
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
帰化について：東京法務局２帰化の一般的な条件 · Checked on 2026-10-23 · In force from 2026-04-01
Under Article 19-16, only mid- to long-term residents holding the listed statuses (professor, certain Highly Skilled Professional categories, business manager, study and training and so on, plus the spouse-type statuses for divorce or death) must report a change of affiliated organisation or contract party within 14 days; Permanent Resident is not on the list, so this article gives permanent residents no duty to report a change of employer.
Quote from the source
中長期在留者であつて、次の各号に掲げる在留資格をもつて本邦に在留する者は、当該各号に掲げる在留資格の区分に応じ、当該各号に定める事由が生じたときは、当該事由が生じた日から十四日以内に
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
出入国管理及び難民認定法（令和6年法律第60号による改正後・2027-04-01施行版）第19条の16 · Checked on 2026-10-23 · In force from 2027-04-01
A supplementary provision of the amending Act requires that, in applying the tax ground for revoking permanent residence (Art. 22-4(1)), the person's earlier record of paying taxes and public charges and current living situation be given full consideration.
Quote from the source
新入管法第二十二条の四第一項（第八号に係る部分に限る。）の規定の適用に当たっては、新入管法別表第二の永住者の在留資格をもって在留する外国人の適正な在留を確保する観点から、同号に該当すると思料される外国人の従前の公租公課の支払状況及び現在の生活状況その他の当該外国人の置かれている状況に十分配慮するものとする。
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
出入国管理及び難民認定法（令和6年法律第60号による改正後・2027-04-01施行版）附則附則第25条 · Checked on 2026-10-23 · In force from 2027-04-01

Numbers and tests

Under the October 2026 guideline, an unreasonable absence of six months or more on a single trip, or 2 years 6 months or more in total, within the 10 years before applying counts against the applicant.
Quote from the source
一回の出国で半年以上不在とした期間がある場合又は通算して２年６月以上不在とした場合は原則として消極評価をします
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年１０月１日改定）第2の5(6) · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
Income is judged by whether household annual income continuously exceeds the average income of Japanese households of the same size; the guideline gives no yen amounts.
Quote from the source
申請者の属する世帯年収の額が、世帯人数に応じた日本人世帯の平均収入を上回る水準
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年１０月１日改定）第2の4(2) · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2026-10-01
For applications filed from 1 April 2027, the guideline also looks at the pension the applicant can expect, compared with the pension of someone who worked 30 years in the employees' pension scheme at the income level of the Japanese household average.
Quote from the source
上記第２の４（２）の日本人世帯の平均収入を上回る年収水準で３０年間働き、その期間、厚生年金に加入していた場合
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年１０月１日改定）第2の4(3) · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
The ISA has said in its public-comment answers of 1 October 2026 that it does not plan to publish the yen amounts of the income benchmark, the target pension level or the age-based asset amount, so the guideline text and any official table contain no figures to hard-code.
Quote from the source
「年収水準、受給年金水準、補填資産額」に関し、具体的な額については、審査の実効性及び制度の適正な運用を確保する観点から公表することは予定しておりません。
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン案改定に係る意見募集の結果について（別紙：御意見の要旨及び御意見に対する考え方） No.17 (別紙) · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2026-10-01
The income benchmark is applied as a single nationwide level rather than by prefecture or city of residence, because the ISA reasons that a permanent resident may move.
Quote from the source
の負担とならず、将来においても生計を維持して安定した生活を営むことができると見込まれることを確実とするため、全国一律の
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン案改定に係る意見募集の結果について（別紙：御意見の要旨及び御意見に対する考え方） No.38 (別紙) · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2026-10-01
For households of five or more the guideline adds an unspecified living-cost increment to the household-size benchmark, and the increment amount is not published either; dependants abroad count toward household size even if they live apart.
Quote from the source
申請者の属する世帯人数が５人以上に及ぶ場合には、世帯人数に応じた年収水準の額に生活費等の増加額分を加算し
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年１０月１日改定）第2の4(2) · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2026-10-01
The three tests are linked as follows: household income must continuously reach the nationwide household-size benchmark; the expected pension must reach the 30-year employees'-pension level; and a shortfall can be covered only by enough financial assets, whose required amount falls with younger age, with a spouse's expected pension added to the applicant's and the 'Category 3 insured' pension of a dependent spouse added to the target.
Quote from the source
配偶者がいる場合には、申請者及び配偶者の受給見込額を合算し
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年１０月１日改定）第2の4(3) · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
Answering requests to use the median or to set a higher bar, the ISA kept the wording that household income must continuously exceed the average income of Japanese households of the same size, and said meeting a Japanese-equivalent level is enough to assure self-support now and in future.
Quote from the source
の年収の額が、世帯人数に応じた日本人世帯の平均収入を上回る水準の額に継続して達しているかを考慮要素とすることとしたも
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン案改定に係る意見募集の結果について（別紙：御意見の要旨及び御意見に対する考え方） No.31, No.33 (別紙) · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2026-10-01
The ISA says it cannot give a uniform standard for how far back unpaid tax or premiums are checked; it checks as far back as the payment record can be confirmed and judges each case on its individual circumstances, so there is no published number of days or instances of lateness that is tolerated.
Quote from the source
税・社会保険料の未納については、その納税・支払状況が確認可能である範囲内で確認することとなりますが、永住許可申請の審
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン案改定に係る意見募集の結果について（別紙：御意見の要旨及び御意見に対する考え方） No.19 (別紙) · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2026-10-01
The revocation guideline sets no fixed yen amount, duration or count of arrears that decides 'deliberate' non-payment: amount, period and number of arrears are weighed together with the other circumstances, not by a uniform standard.
Quote from the source
個々の事案の具体的な状況を総合考慮するものであり、必ずしも滞納額等について一律の基準を定めて判断するものではありません。
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住者の在留資格の取消しに関するガイドライン第2の2(4) · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01

Periods

As a rule the applicant should have lived in Japan continuously for 10 years or more at the time of application.
Quote from the source
申請時点において、原則として引き続き１０年以上の期間本邦に在留しているかを考慮要素とし
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年１０月１日改定）第2の5(6) · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
Of the 10 years, at least 5 continuous years must have been spent in a work-purpose status or a residence-type status.
Quote from the source
この在留期間のうち、就労資格又は居住資格をもって引き続き５年以上の期間本邦に在留しているか
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年１０月１日改定）第2の5(6) · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
From 1 April 2027 the spouse route needs a genuine marriage lasting 5 years or more plus 3 continuous years of residence in Japan; a biological child of such a person needs 3 years of continuous residence.
Quote from the source
実体を伴った婚姻生活が５年以上継続し、かつ、引き続き３年以上本邦に在留していること
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年１０月１日改定）第3の1 · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
Under the February 2026 guideline, the spouse route requires a genuine marriage of 3 years or more and 1 year of continuous residence in Japan; a child needs 1 year.
Quote from the source
実体を伴った婚姻生活が３年以上継続し、かつ、引き続き１年以上本邦に在留していること
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年２月２４日改訂） 2(1) · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2026-02-24
A holder of Long-Term Resident status can apply after 5 continuous years in Japan instead of 10.
Quote from the source
「定住者」の在留資格で５年以上継続して本邦に在留していること
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年１０月１日改定）第3の2 · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
Recognised refugees and complementary-protection beneficiaries need 5 or more continuous years of residence after recognition.
Quote from the source
認定後５年以上継続して本邦に在留していること
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年１０月１日改定）第3の3 · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
A highly skilled professional scoring 70 points or more can apply after 3 continuous years in Japan while keeping the score, or when a 70-plus score is confirmed as of three years before filing and has been held continuously for those 3 years.
Quote from the source
３年以上継続して７０点以上の点数を有し本邦に在留していること
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年１０月１日改定）第3の6 · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
A highly skilled professional scoring 80 points or more qualifies after 1 continuous year while keeping the score.
Quote from the source
「高度人材外国人」として必要な点数を維持して１年以上継続して本邦に在留していること
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年１０月１日改定）第3の7 · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
A Special Highly Skilled Professional can apply after 1 continuous year of residence in that capacity.
Quote from the source
「特別高度人材」として１年以上継続して本邦に在留していること
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年１０月１日改定）第3の8 · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
People who worked in a designated special zone project, or in a regional-revitalisation institution doing specified research or IT activities, and are recognised as contributing to Japan can apply after 3 continuous years.
Quote from the source
構造改革特別区域（以下「特区」といいます。）内において当該特区の特定事業等に従事し、当該事業において我が国への貢献が認められる者の場合
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年１０月１日改定）第3の4・5 · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
A person recognised as having contributed to Japan in diplomacy, society, the economy or culture can apply after 5 years of residence.
Quote from the source
外交・国際交流、社会、経済、文化等の分野において我が国への貢献があると認められる者（下記第４に規定する者）で、５年以上本邦に在留していること
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年１０月１日改定）第3の9 · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
The published standard processing period for a permanent residence application is four to six months.
Quote from the source
標準処理期間４か月～６か月
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可申請（手続案内） · Checked on 2026-10-22
Actual processing is much longer than the standard: permanent residence permits granted in August 2026 took an average of 309.0 days from receipt to notification.
Quote from the source
永住者 309.0 292.6
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
在留審査処理期間（令和８年８月許可分） · Checked on 2026-10-22
The second sentence of Article 7 extends the same relief to the foreign spouse of a Japanese national when 3 years have passed since the wedding date and the spouse has had a domicile in Japan for 1 or more continuous years: the Minister may naturalize them even without the 5-year domicile and the age-and-capacity conditions of Article 5(1).
Quote from the source
日本国民の配偶者たる外国人で婚姻の日から三年を経過し、かつ、引き続き一年以上日本に住所を有するものについても、同様とする
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
国籍法（e-Gov 法令検索）第7条後段 · Checked on 2026-10-22
The Minister may waive the 5-year domicile condition for a person who has resided in Japan for 10 or more continuous years and is currently domiciled in Japan.
Quote from the source
引き続き十年以上日本に居所を有する者
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
国籍法（e-Gov 法令検索）第6条第3号 · Checked on 2026-10-22
No standard processing period is published for naturalization.
Quote from the source
標準処理期間ありません
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
帰化許可申請（法務省申請手続案内） · Checked on 2026-10-22
The Maebashi District Legal Affairs Bureau, on a page dated 22 January 2024, says the process from the first consultation to a decision takes at least about 1 year 6 months, with an interview roughly 3 months after filing.
Quote from the source
手続には１回目の相談から許可・不許可の決定まで最短でも１年６か月程度かかりま
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
帰化手続のながれについて（前橋地方法務局） · Checked on 2026-10-22
The Cabinet Office describes the special-zone measure 'relaxation of permanent residence permission for foreigners in specified projects' (No. 505, introduced in January 2003) as building on the rule that a foreigner recognised as contributing to Japan needs 5 years instead of 10; it is never run alone but together with other specified projects, and the project, its implementing body and the institution where the foreigner works must be named in the zone plan.
Quote from the source
本事業は単独で行われるものではなく、他の特定事業と併せて実施されるものであること。
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
構造改革特区地域の特性に応じた地域活性化－令和８年版－（特定事業等に係る外国人の永住許可弾力化事業）特定事業等に係る外国人の永住許可弾力化事業 (505) · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2026-03-31
The regional-revitalisation route needs work at a public or private institution inside an area of a certified regional revitalisation plan, in an activity under Designated Activities notification No. 36 (specified research) or No. 37 (specified information processing), which shortens the required stay to three years if the activity is recognised as contributing to Japan.
Quote from the source
地域再生計画において明示された同計画の区域内に所在する公私の機関において、出入国管理及び難民認定法第七条第一項第二号の規定に基づき同法別表第一の五の表の下欄に掲げる活動を定める件（以下「特定活動告示」という。）36号又は37号のいずれかに該当する活動を行う外国人であって
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
地域再生計画認定申請マニュアル（各論）— 外国人研究者等に対する永住許可弾力化事業 1-4 外国人研究者等に対する永住許可弾力化事業 · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2025-12-24
On the 80-point route, a person who is not residing as a Highly Skilled Professional can still apply if they score 80 or more both at filing and one year before filing.
Quote from the source
永住許可申請の１年前の時点でポイント計算を行った場合に、８０点以上を有している方
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可申請４－（１）－イ（80点以上・高度専門職以外） 표제 · Checked on 2026-10-22
For the 70-point route the points are measured both at filing and three years before filing.
Quote from the source
永住許可申請の３年前の時点でポイント計算を行った場合に、７０点以上を有している方
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可申請４－（２）－イ（70点以上・高度専門職以外） 표제 · Checked on 2026-10-22
Under Article 6, a person who is a non-adopted child of someone who was a Japanese national and has had a domicile or residence in Japan for 3 or more continuous years, or who was born in Japan and either has had a domicile or residence for 3 or more continuous years or has a father or mother (not counting adoptive parents) born in Japan, can be naturalized without the 5-year domicile condition, provided they currently have a domicile in Japan.
Quote from the source
日本国民であつた者の子（養子を除く。）で引き続き三年以上日本に住所又は居所を有するもの
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
国籍法第6条第1号・第2号 · Checked on 2026-10-22
The first sentence of Article 7 lets the foreign spouse of a Japanese national who has had a domicile or residence in Japan for 3 or more continuous years and currently has a domicile there be naturalized without the 5-year domicile and the age-and-capacity conditions; the second sentence, a marriage of 3 years plus 1 year of domicile, is recorded separately.
Quote from the source
日本国民の配偶者たる外国人で引き続き三年以上日本に住所又は居所を有し、かつ、現に日本に住所を有するものについては
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
国籍法第7条前段 · Checked on 2026-10-22
In calendar year 2025 14,103 people applied for naturalization, 9,258 were granted and 666 were refused, so about 6.7 percent of decided cases were refused; the year before the figures were 12,248, 8,863 and 639.
Quote from the source
令和７年 14,103 9,258 2,017 3,533 3,708 666
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
帰化許可申請者数、帰化許可者数及び帰化不許可者数の推移（法務省民事局）令和７年 · Checked on 2026-10-22
A permanent resident's residence card (the status has no end date) issued on or after 14 June 2026 is valid until the 10th birthday after issue (5th birthday if under 18); cards issued up to 13 June 2026 were valid for 7 years from issue (for children under 16, until the day before the 16th birthday), so either way the card itself has to be renewed.
Quote from the source
２０２６年（令和８年）６月１４日以降に交付された在留カードの有効期間の満了日は、交付の日後の１０回目（１８歳未満の者については５回目）の誕生日までとなります。
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
特定在留カード交付申請についてＱ４－３ · Checked on 2026-10-23 · In force from 2026-06-14
A foreign national with a valid passport (plus the residence card, for a mid- to long-term resident) can leave under the simplified re-entry permission by stating on departure that they intend to return; it is valid for one year from the departure date (or until the stay expiry if that comes earlier), and returning within that year in principle needs no ordinary re-entry permit. It does not cover people whose period of stay is 3 months or less, short-term visitors, or people in certain enforcement situations, who must obtain an ordinary permit.
Quote from the source
みなし再入国許可の有効期間は、出国の日から１年間となりますが、在留期限が出国の日から１年を経過する前に到来する場合には、在留期限までとなります。
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
みなし再入国許可（入管法第26条の2）みなし再入国許可 · Checked on 2026-10-23
An ordinary re-entry permit is granted for a validity of no more than 5 years from the day it takes effect.
Quote from the source
再入国の許可を与える場合には、当該許可が効力を生ずるものとされた日から五年を超えない範囲内においてその有効期間を定めるものとする
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
出入国管理及び難民認定法（e-Gov 法令検索・2026-10-01施行時点）第26条第3項 · Checked on 2026-10-23 · In force from 2026-10-01
A person who left with a re-entry permit and cannot return within its validity for a good reason may apply for an extension of up to one year, and the total may not go beyond 6 years from the day the permit took effect; this extension does not apply to the simplified re-entry permission.
Quote from the source
その者の申請に基づき、一年を超えず、かつ、当該許可が効力を生じた日から六年を超えない範囲内で、当該許可の有効期間の延長の許可をすることができる
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
出入国管理及び難民認定法（e-Gov 法令検索・2026-10-01施行時点）第26条第5項・第26条の2第3項 · Checked on 2026-10-23 · In force from 2026-10-01
Tokyo Legal Affairs Bureau's naturalization checklist asks salaried applicants without a tax-return duty for resident-tax assessment certificates, payment certificates and proof of timely payment covering the last five years, and for public-pension and health-insurance payment certificates covering the last two years.
Quote from the source
総所得金額が記載された都道府県・市区町村民税の課税証明書又は非課税証明書（直近５年分）
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
帰化許可申請書に添付する書類（その他の国籍・地域の方）：東京法務局納税に関する各種証明書・社会保険の納付証明書 · Checked on 2026-10-23

Deadlines

A person whose status is revoked rather than changed is given a period of not more than 30 days to leave Japan, which may carry conditions on residence and movement.
Quote from the source
三十日を超えない範囲内で当該外国人が出国するために必要な期間を指定するものとする
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
出入国管理及び難民認定法（令和6年法律第60号による改正後・2027-04-01施行版）第22条の4第7項・第8項 · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
People who already hold Business Manager status cannot be refused an extension merely for missing the new standard until 16 October 2028; the grace covers extensions only, and after the effective date permanent residence from Business Manager status, or from business-based Highly Skilled Professional status, is not granted to someone who does not meet the revised standard.
Quote from the source
施行後３年が経過するまで（令和１０年１０月１６日まで）の間は、新たな基準を満たさない場合でも、そのことのみをもって在留期間更新許可申請が不許可になることはありません。
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
在留資格「経営・管理」に係る上陸基準省令等の改正について問1 · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2025-10-16
The renewal application for the card is made from three months before the expiry date until the expiry date at the immigration office for the residence, and costs nothing.
Quote from the source
現に有する在留カードの有効期間の満了日の３か月前から有効期間の満了日まで
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
在留カードの有効期間の更新申請申請期間・手数料 · Checked on 2026-10-22
A change of address must be reported to the municipal office within 14 days of moving, with the residence card, and failing to do so is punishable by a fine of up to 200,000 yen.
Quote from the source
中長期在留者は、住居地を変更したときは、新住居地（変更後の住居地をいう。以下同じ。）に移転した日から十四日以内に
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
出入国管理及び難民認定法（e-Gov 法令検索・2026-10-01施行時点）第19条の9第1項 · Checked on 2026-10-23
Changes to the name, date of birth, sex or nationality/region shown on the card must be reported to the ISA within 14 days of the change.
Quote from the source
変更を生じた日から十四日以内に、法務省令で定める手続により、出入国在留管理庁長官に対し、変更の届出をしなければならない
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
出入国管理及び難民認定法（e-Gov 法令検索・2026-10-01施行時点）第19条の10・第19条の4第1項第1号 · Checked on 2026-10-23
A mid- to long-term resident who left with a re-entry permission and does not re-enter within its validity must return the residence card to the Commissioner within 14 days of that event.
Quote from the source
再入国許可を受けて出国した中長期在留者の方で、再入国の許可の有効期間内に再入国しなかった場合は、その事由が生じた日から１４日以内に、出入国在留管理庁長官に対し、在留カードを返納しなければならないこととされています。
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
新たな在留管理制度に関するＱ＆Ａ（在留カード） Q69 · Checked on 2026-10-23

Fees

The fee for a permanent residence permit is 200,000 yen, payable when the permit is granted, for applications received from 1 October 2026.
Quote from the source
許可されるときは２００，０００円が必要です
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可申請（手続案内） · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2026-10-01
Applications received up to 30 September 2026 still pay the old 10,000 yen fee even if the permit is granted after 1 October.
Quote from the source
２０２６年９月３０日までに受付した申請については、当該申請に係る許可が１０月１日以降となっても、改定前の手数料（１０，０００円）による納付となります
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可申請（手続案内） · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2026-10-01
A permanent residence applicant who is a spouse or child of a Japanese national, a permanent resident or a special permanent resident, and who is in hardship close to the public-assistance level and needs humanitarian consideration, may have the fee reduced to 20,000 yen; no other permanent residence applicants are eligible for a reduction, and the reduction cannot be claimed through the online system, so filing is at the counter.
Quote from the source
なお、永住許可を受ける者で減額の対象となるのは、日本人、永住者又は特別永住者の配偶者又は子等に限ります
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
令和８年１０月１日以降における在留許可手数料の減額措置又は免除措置について · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2026-10-01
The fee for permanent residence is set by cabinet order within a statutory ceiling of 300,000 yen in Article 67 of the Immigration Control Act.
Quote from the source
第二十二条第二項の規定による永住許可三十万円
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
出入国管理及び難民認定法（e-Gov 法令検索・2026-10-01施行時点）第67条第1項第3号 · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2026-10-01
No fee is charged for acquiring permanent resident status on a ground such as birth, as opposed to applying to change from another status.
Quote from the source
在留資格取得の場合は、手数料はかかりません
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可申請（手続案内） · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2026-10-01
There is no fee for a naturalization application.
Quote from the source
手数料はかかりません
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
帰化許可申請（法務省申請手続案内） · Checked on 2026-10-22

How it works

For permanent residence applications handled at the counter, the fee is paid with revenue stamps, with the stamp amount stated on the notice postcard.
Quote from the source
窓口で受け付けた申請に対する許可を受ける場合、従来どおり収入印紙により手数料を納めていただくこととなります
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
令和８年１０月１日付け在留許可手数料の額の改定等について · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2026-10-01
An applicant must file before the current period of stay expires, and if it will expire while the application is pending, a separate extension application must be filed by the expiry date.
Quote from the source
永住許可申請中に在留期間が経過する場合は、在留期間の満了する日までに別途在留期間更新許可申請をすることが必要です
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可申請（手続案内） · Checked on 2026-10-22
Permanent residence applications are filed at the regional immigration office with jurisdiction over the applicant's residence.
Quote from the source
住居地を管轄する地方出入国在留管理官署
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可申請（手続案内） · Checked on 2026-10-22
There is no administrative appeal procedure against a decision on a permanent residence application.
Quote from the source
不服申立方法なし
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可申請（手続案内） · Checked on 2026-10-22
The letter of guarantee is normally given by a guarantor who lives in Japan and is a Japanese national, a permanent resident or a special permanent resident.
Quote from the source
身元保証人には、通常、日本に居住する日本人、永住者又は特別永住者の方になっていただきます
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可申請（手続案内） · Checked on 2026-10-22
Since 1 October 2021 a signed letter of understanding has been required with every permanent residence application.
Quote from the source
２０２１年１０月１日から、永住許可申請には了解書の提出が必要となりました
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可申請３（就労関係の在留資格・家族滞在の方） 15 · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2021-10-01
Certificates issued in Japan must be dated within three months of filing, and documents in foreign languages need a Japanese translation.
Quote from the source
日本で発行される証明書は全て、発行日から３か月以内のものを提出してください
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可申請３（就労関係の在留資格・家族滞在の方） · Checked on 2026-10-22
The ISA publishes self-check sheets and warns that a single 'No' answer makes refusal likely, while all 'Yes' answers do not guarantee approval.
Quote from the source
１つでも「いいえ（No）」に該当した場合、永住許可申請は「不許可」となる可能性が高くなります
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可申請３（就労関係の在留資格・家族滞在の方）重要２ · Checked on 2026-10-22
Even if a revocation ground is met, the Minister is to change the status ex officio to a non-permanent status, expected to be Long-Term Resident in most cases, unless continued stay is inappropriate.
Quote from the source
多くの場合、「定住者」の在留資格を付与することとなると考えています
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可制度の適正化Q＆A Ｑ１２ · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
Before revoking a status the Minister must have an immigration inspector hear the person's opinion, unless the person has no valid reason for failing to take part in the hearing.
Quote from the source
その指定する入国審査官に、当該外国人の意見を聴取させなければならない
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
出入国管理及び難民認定法（e-Gov 法令検索・2027-04-01施行版／令和6年法律第60号）第22条の4第2項 · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
National and local government officials may report a person they believe meets a revocation ground to the immigration authorities, but reporting is optional.
Quote from the source
その職務を遂行するに当たつて第二十二条の四第一項各号のいずれかに該当すると思料する外国人を知つたときは、その旨を通報することができる
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
出入国管理及び難民認定法（e-Gov 法令検索・2027-04-01施行版／令和6年法律第60号）第62条の2 · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
A person can sue to cancel a revocation or ex officio status change that they dispute.
Quote from the source
取消訴訟等を提起することが可能です
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可制度の適正化Q＆A Ｑ１５ · Checked on 2026-10-22
The applicant must file in person at the legal affairs bureau for their address, in writing; a legal representative applies for a child under 15.
Quote from the source
本人（15歳未満のときは、父母などの法定代理人）が自ら申請先に出向き、書面によって申請することが必要です
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
国籍Ｑ＆Ａ（法務省）Ｑ10 · Checked on 2026-10-22
An employee who stayed on employer-based Health Insurance for the whole last two years needs only the insured card or eligibility proof, whereas anyone who was on National Health Insurance in that period must also submit certificates and receipts for it.
Quote from the source
直近２年間の全ての期間において引き続き健康保険に加入している方は、イ～エの資料は不要です。
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可申請３（就労関係の在留資格・家族滞在の方） 8(2)ア〜エ · Checked on 2026-10-22
Receipts or passbook entries showing resident tax and insurance were paid by the due date are collected specifically to prove there was no late payment, and applicants are told to keep receipts for as many years as needed.
Quote from the source
遅延納付（納付期限後の納付）がないことを証明するために提出していただくものですので、領収証書等については必要な年数分を保管しておいてください。
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可申請３（就労関係の在留資格・家族滞在の方） 7(1)イ · Checked on 2026-10-22
Anyone who paid National Pension at any time in the last two years must submit the pension receipts in addition to the pension-office record printout or Nenkin Net pages, while kosei-nenkin members use the record printouts alone.
Quote from the source
直近２年間において国民年金に加入していた期間がある方は、ア又はイの資料に加え、ウの資料も提出してください。
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可申請３（就労関係の在留資格・家族滞在の方） 8(1) · Checked on 2026-10-22
An applicant who is the employer of a workplace covered by social insurance must additionally prove the workplace's own pension and health premiums for the part of the last two years in which they were the employer.
Quote from the source
申請時に、社会保険適用事業所の事業主である方は、上記の「公的年金の保険料の納付状況を証明する資料」及び「公的医療保険の保険料の納付状況を証明する資料」に加え
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可申請３（就労関係の在留資格・家族滞在の方） 8(3) · Checked on 2026-10-22
Whether to revoke (leaving Japan) or change status is decided case by case: for the card-and-duty ground revocation fits a person who shows no intention to comply after repeated guidance or who tries to use a forged card; for the tax ground a person who clearly will not pay, who repeatedly defaulted on several dues or who was convicted of tax evasion; for the imprisonment ground a person with a prior prison sentence after the grant who is sentenced again.
Quote from the source
単に資力がないという事情だけでなく、今後も支払う意思がないことが本人の言動等で明らかである場合や、過去に複数の公租公課に係る滞納を繰り返しており今後も支払うことが見込めない場合
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住者の在留資格の取消しに関するガイドライン第4の2(1)〜(3) · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
Even where revocation is warranted, family ties or humanitarian need can lead the Minister to change the status instead of revoking it.
Quote from the source
取消相当と判断したとしても、特に家族関係や人道上の配慮の必要性がある場合には、取り消すことはせず、職権変更とする場合もあり得ます。
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住者の在留資格の取消しに関するガイドライン第4の3 · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
The Minister must first serve a hearing notice stating the date, place and the facts behind the revocation, though in urgent cases the notice may be given orally by an immigration inspector or guard; the statute sets no minimum number of days to respond.
Quote from the source
あらかじめ、意見の聴取の期日及び場所並びに取消しの原因となる事実を記載した意見聴取通知書を当該外国人に送達しなければならない
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
出入国管理及び難民認定法（令和6年法律第60号による改正後・2027-04-01施行版）第22条の4第3項 · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
At the hearing the person or an agent may appear, state opinions and submit evidence, and the revocation or change is done by serving a written notice.
Quote from the source
当該外国人又はその者の代理人は、前項の期日に出頭して、意見を述べ、及び証拠を提出することができる。
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
出入国管理及び難民認定法（令和6年法律第60号による改正後・2027-04-01施行版）第22条の4第4項・第6項 · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
The application form is the two-page Form No. 34 of the Enforcement Regulation, with fields for passport, current status and period, residence card number, any criminal record in or outside Japan, reason for applying, history since the latest entry, the main income earner and annual income, relatives in Japan and the guarantor in Japan.
Quote from the source
別記第三十四号様式（第二十二条，第二十五条関係）
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可申請書（別記第三十四号様式）別記第三十四号様式 · Checked on 2026-10-22
The photo attached to a residence application must be 4 cm by 3 cm, show only the applicant, be taken within six months before filing, face the camera without a hat, have no background or shadow behind the face and be sharp.
Quote from the source
提出の日前６か月以内に撮影されたもの
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
提出写真の規格提出写真の規格 · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2026-06-14
A reasons statement in free form explaining why permanent residence is needed is required, and a non-Japanese statement needs a translation.
Quote from the source
永住許可を必要とする理由について、自由な形式で書いて下さい。
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可申請３（就労関係の在留資格・家族滞在の方） 3 · Checked on 2026-10-22
Besides the applicant, a legal representative or an authorised agent may file: staff of the employer or school, lawyers and administrative scriveners notified to the immigration bureau, and relatives only if the applicant is under 16 or cannot appear because of illness or similar; an agent must show proof of identity as well as the applicant's passport and card.
Quote from the source
申請人本人が１６歳未満の場合又は疾病（注１）その他の事由により自ら出頭することができない場合（注２）には、その親族又は同居者若しくはこれに準ずる者
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可申請（手続案内）申請提出者 · Checked on 2026-10-22
Permanent residence applications cannot be made through the Online Residence Application System; they have to be filed on paper at the immigration office, with or without an authorised agent.
Quote from the source
在留申請オンラインシステムでは、永住許可申請及び在留カードに係る手続（住居地以外の記載事項変更届、在留カードの有効期間更新申請など）を行うことはできません。
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
オンラインによる申請手続に関するＱ＆ＡＡ１－５ · Checked on 2026-10-22
Applications are accepted on weekdays from 9 am to 12 noon and from 1 pm to 4 pm at the immigration office covering the applicant's residence, although some procedures have set days or hours.
Quote from the source
平日午前９時から同１２時、午後１時から同４時
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可申請（手続案内）受付時間 · Checked on 2026-10-22
The permanent-residence letter of guarantee is a short form in which the guarantor, signing in their own hand, pledges to give the support needed for the applicant to obey Japanese law and properly perform public duties while in Japan, with name, address, workplace, nationality and status, and relationship to the applicant.
Quote from the source
本人が本邦に在留中、本邦の法令を遵守し、公的義務を適正に履行するため、必要な支援を行うことを保証い
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
身元保証書（永住許可申請用）様式 · Checked on 2026-10-22
To claim contribution, the 2017 guideline tells the applicant to fill in a summary form describing the activity, naming the materials such as journals or newspapers with dates, and describing the results, and to attach evidence of the contribution to the application.
Quote from the source
上記に該当するものとして，永住許可申請を行う場合には，具体的な貢献内容が明らかとなるよう，次ページの様式に記入し，貢献に関する資料を添付した上で
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
「我が国への貢献」に関するガイドライン（平成29年4月26日改定） ※申請に際しての注 · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2017-04-26
One regional bureau describes the naturalization process as up to three consultations (home-country documents, domestic documents, then forms), a filing session in person with signature, and an interview about three months later for the applicant and spouse, so several visits are needed.
Quote from the source
２回目の相談では、本国関係書類の取得状況を確認し、帰化手続に必要な本国関係書類を全て取得しているときは、国内関係書類の案内をします。
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
帰化手続のながれについて：前橋地方法務局帰化手続のながれ · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2024-01-22
Under the 2027 revocation regime, a person for whom a status-revocation procedure is under way is not covered by the simplified re-entry and must obtain an ordinary re-entry permit before leaving.
Quote from the source
（１）在留資格取消手続中の者
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
みなし再入国許可（入管法第26条の2）みなし再入国許可対象外 · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
A photo is not needed from an applicant under one year old on the day the residence card is issued; before 14 June 2026 only those under 16 were exempt, and for cards issued from that date photos are required from age one.
Quote from the source
在留カードの交付の日において年齢が１歳に満たない方は、写真の提出は不要です（令和８年６月１３日以前は写真の提出が不要なのは１６歳未満の方でしたが、令和８年６月１４日以降に交付される在留カードからは１歳以上の方について写真の提出が必要となりました。）。
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可申請（就労関係・家族滞在）提出書類２写真 · Checked on 2026-10-23 · In force from 2026-06-14

Penalties

Separately from revocation, even a permanent resident sentenced to life or to more than one year of imprisonment may be deported regardless of the offence.
Quote from the source
無期又は１年を超える実刑に処せられた場合は、罪名等にかかわらず、退去強制事由に該当して退去強制される場合があります
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可制度の適正化Q＆A Ｑ１１ · Checked on 2026-10-22
Even a negligent breach of such an obligation can fit the ground, but a single lapse such as forgetting to renew the card or carry it is not expected to lead to revocation by itself, and 'justifiable reasons' such as illness or disaster excuse the breach.
Quote from the source
なお、過失によって義務に違反することとなった場合でも取消事由には該当することとなります。
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住者の在留資格の取消しに関するガイドライン第2の1(2)(3) · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
A letter of guarantee has no legal enforceability against the guarantor, so the guarantor is not legally liable to pay or to arrange departure, and the authorities only urge performance, but failing to perform can mean losing credibility as a guarantor in later applications, a moral responsibility.
Quote from the source
法務大臣に約束する保証事項について身元保証人に対する法的な強制力はなく、保証事項を履行しない場合でも当局からの約束の履行を指導するにとどまります
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
出入国審査・在留審査Q&A Ｑ５３ · Checked on 2026-10-22
Failing to renew the residence card within the application period can bring imprisonment of up to one year or a fine of up to 200,000 yen.
Quote from the source
在留カードの有効期間更新申請を申請期間中に行わなかったときは、入管法第７１条の２の規定により、１年以下の拘禁刑又は２０万円以下の罰金に処せられることがあります
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
在留カード等に関するＱ＆Ａ（新しい在留管理制度）有効期間更新を怠った場合 · Checked on 2026-10-22
A foreign resident who leaves Japan without a re-entry permission (a deemed re-entry permission counts as such) loses the residence status and period of stay held before leaving.
Quote from the source
我が国に在留する外国人が再入国許可（みなし再入国許可を含みます。）を受けずに出国した場合には、その外国人が有していた在留資格及び在留期間は消滅してしまいます
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
再入国許可（入管法第26条）再入国許可 · Checked on 2026-10-22

Lists and tables

Workers must submit five years of resident-tax assessment and payment certificates, plus proof that resident tax was paid on time unless it was withheld from salary.
Quote from the source
直近５年分の住民税の課税（又は非課税）証明書及び納税証明書
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可申請３（就労関係の在留資格・家族滞在の方） 7(1) · Checked on 2026-10-22
Workers must also submit national tax certificates (type 3) covering withholding, income, consumption, inheritance and gift taxes.
Quote from the source
源泉所得税及び復興特別所得税、申告所得税及び復興特別所得税、消費税及び地方消費税、相続税、贈与税に係る納税証明書（その３）
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可申請３（就労関係の在留資格・家族滞在の方） 7(2) · Checked on 2026-10-22
Proof of pension premium payment for the past two years is required, such as the pension office's insured-record reply, a full-period pension notice or Nenkin Net printouts.
Quote from the source
直近（過去２年間）の公的年金の保険料の納付状況を証明する資料
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可申請３（就労関係の在留資格・家族滞在の方） 8(1) · Checked on 2026-10-22
Spouses of Japanese nationals or permanent residents submit tax records for the last three years, while biological children of such persons submit one year.
Quote from the source
日本人、永住者及び特別永住者の実子等の場合は、直近１年分の資料を提出してください
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可申請１（日本人・永住者・特別永住者の配偶者又は実子等の方） 6 · Checked on 2026-10-22
Documents proving nationality and family relationships should in principle be those issued by the authorities of the applicant's home country.
Quote from the source
国籍を証する書面及び身分関係を証する書面については、原則として本国官憲が発給したものを提出する必要があります
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
国籍Ｑ＆Ａ（法務省）Ｑ11 · Checked on 2026-10-22
Besides tax and pension, the checklist for work-status applicants asks for proof of health-insurance premium payment over the last two years, so the health-insurance lookback is two years, the same as for pension.
Quote from the source
直近（過去２年間）の公的医療保険の保険料の納付状況を証明する資料
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可申請３（就労関係の在留資格・家族滞在の方） 8(2) · Checked on 2026-10-22
Highly Skilled Professionals on the 80-point route (one year in the status) supply only one year of income and tax proof and one year of pension and health-insurance premium proof.
Quote from the source
直近（過去１年分）の申請人及び申請人を扶養する方の所得及び納税状況を証明する資料
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可申請４－（１）－ア（80点以上の高度専門職） 6, 8(1)(2) · Checked on 2026-10-22
On the 70-point Highly Skilled Professional route the ISA checklist asks for the last three years of resident-tax certificates and payment proof but only two years of pension and health-insurance premium proof.
Quote from the source
直近（過去３年分）の申請人及び申請人を扶養する方の所得及び納税状況を証明する資料
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可申請４－（２）－ア（70点以上の高度専門職） 6, 8(1)(2) · Checked on 2026-10-22
Long-Term Resident applicants face the same five-year resident-tax lookback as work-status applicants.
Quote from the source
直近（過去５年分）の申請人及び申請人を扶養する方の所得及び納税状況を証明する資料
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可申請２（「定住者」の在留資格の方） 7 · Checked on 2026-10-22
From 1 April 2027 filings the October text newly applies the absence limits, CEFR B1 Japanese, the understanding check, school attendance of children, the January 2026 comprehensive measures, the longer spouse periods (5 years of marriage and 3 years in Japan) and the exclusion of Intra-company Transferee time from the 5-year work-status count; none of these is in the February text that governs earlier filings.
Quote from the source
本ガイドラインの改定は令和９年４月１日以降の申請から適用します。
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年１０月１日改定）第6 · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
The national-interest part of the February 2026 guideline asks only for 10 years of residence with at least 5 in a work or residence status (Technical Intern Training and Specified Skilled Worker (i) excluded), no fines or imprisonment, proper performance of public duties, the longest period of stay, landing standards and no public-health risk.
Quote from the source
罰金刑や拘禁刑などを受けていないこと。公的義務（納税、公的年金及び公的医療保険の保険料の納付並びに出入国管理及び難民認定法に定める届出等の義務）を適正に履行していること。
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年２月２４日改訂） 1(3)ア〜オ · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2026-02-24
The Penal Code offences covered by the imprisonment ground in Article 22-4(1)(ix) are those in chapter 12 (trespass), chapters 16 to 19 (counterfeiting of currency, documents, securities, payment cards and seals), chapter 23 (gambling), chapters 26 and 27 (homicide, injury), chapter 31 (arrest and confinement), chapter 33 (abduction and trafficking), chapter 36 (theft and robbery), chapter 37 (fraud and extortion) and chapter 39 (stolen property).
Quote from the source
刑法第二編第十二章、第十六章から第十九章まで、第二十三章、第二十六章、第二十七章、第三十一章、第三十三章、第三十六章、第三十七章若しくは第三十九章の罪
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
出入国管理及び難民認定法（令和6年法律第60号による改正後・2027-04-01施行版）第22条の4第1項第9号 · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
The special-law offences in the same ground are collective violence and habitual assault under the Act on Punishment of Violence, the habitual and special theft offences, the illegal sale or possession of special lock-opening tools, dangerous driving causing injury or death (Articles 2 and 6(1)) and concealing designated metal-cutting tools.
Quote from the source
自動車の運転により人を死傷させる行為等の処罰に関する法律第二条若しくは第六条第一項の罪又は盗難特定金属製物品の処分の防止等に関する法律第二十二条の罪により拘禁刑に処せられたこと
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
出入国管理及び難民認定法（令和6年法律第60号による改正後・2027-04-01施行版）第22条の4第1項第9号 · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
The factors weighed for deliberate non-payment are income, funds and assets, number, amount and length of arrears, payment record, how the arrears arose, the business and living situation afterwards, the person's conduct and other circumstances, and the test is whether an unwillingness to pay is clearly evident.
Quote from the source
収入や資金・財産の状況、公租公課の滞納回数、滞納額、滞納期間、支払状況、滞納発生に至る経緯、滞納発生後の事業や生活の状況等
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住者の在留資格の取消しに関するガイドライン第2の2(2) · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
The ISA status list classes the statuses in tables 1 and 2 of Appended Table I (for example Highly Skilled Professional, Business Manager, Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services, Skilled Labor and Specified Skilled Worker (ii)) as work statuses, Spouse or Child of Japanese National, Spouse or Child of Permanent Resident and Long-Term Resident as residence statuses, and Student and Dependent as non-working statuses.
Quote from the source
二の表（就労資格，上陸許可基準の適用あり）
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
在留資格一覧表別表第一・第二（表の区分） · Checked on 2026-10-22
For the 5-year work-status count, Designated Activities under notifications No. 6 (amateur sports), 8 (international arbitration), 36 (specified research), 37 (specified information processing) and 46 (graduates of Japanese universities) and EPA nurses and care workers (after candidate status) count, while working holiday, internship and a job taken after Japanese high school do not.
Quote from the source
ＥＰＡ看護師及びＥＰＡ介護福祉士（ＥＰＡ看護師及びＥＰＡ介護福祉士の候補者として在留している期間は含まれません。）
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年１０月１日改定）第5の2 · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
Proof of occupation is a certificate of employment for employees, a copy of the tax return and any business licence for the self-employed, or a free-form statement with evidence otherwise, and if both spouses are unemployed that must be stated in writing.
Quote from the source
申請人及び配偶者の方お二方とも無職の場合についても、その旨を説明書（書式自由）に記載して提出してください。
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可申請３（就労関係の在留資格・家族滞在の方） 6 · Checked on 2026-10-22
Assets are proved by a copy of a bank passbook or a real-estate registry certificate or similar; web-banking screens are accepted only if printed in a form that cannot be edited, not as Excel files.
Quote from the source
ただし、加工等できない状態で印刷されたものに限ります（Excelファイル等は不可）。
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可申請３（就労関係の在留資格・家族滞在の方） 9 · Checked on 2026-10-22
A residence certificate listing all household members is needed with the My Number omitted but everything else left in; the passport and residence card are shown in person, along with any permission to engage in activity outside the status.
Quote from the source
個人番号（マイナンバー）については省略し、他の事項については省略のないものとするようお願いします。
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可申請３（就労関係の在留資格・家族滞在の方） 5, 10, 11 · Checked on 2026-10-22
The ISA's permanent-residence page links five document-guidance pages by status: spouses and biological children of Japanese nationals, permanent residents and special permanent residents (1), Long-Term Residents (2), work statuses and Dependents (3), Highly Skilled Professionals (4) and Special Highly Skilled Professionals (5).
Quote from the source
永住許可申請５（申請人の方が、「特別高度人材」であるとして永住許可申請を行う場合）
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可申請（手続案内）申請書・必要書類・部数 · Checked on 2026-10-22
Evidence of contribution to Japan is optional in the work-status list: copies of certificates of commendation, letters of thanks or decorations, a recommendation by the head of the applicant's company, university or organisation, and other materials showing contribution.
Quote from the source
表彰状、感謝状、叙勲書等の写し
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可申請３（就労関係の在留資格・家族滞在の方） 13 · Checked on 2026-10-22
A letter of understanding must accompany every permanent-residence application and is offered in 13 versions: Japanese, plain Japanese, English, simplified and traditional Chinese, Korean, French, Portuguese, Spanish, Tagalog, Vietnamese, Nepali and Thai.
Quote from the source
了解書（タイ語）（PDF：51KB）
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可申請３（就労関係の在留資格・家族滞在の方） 15 · Checked on 2026-10-22
The only guarantor attachment the ISA checklists list is a document showing the guarantor's identity such as a copy of a driving licence; the checklists do not ask for the guarantor's tax certificate, income proof or residence-status proof.
Quote from the source
身元保証人の身分事項を明らかにする書類（運転免許証写し等）
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可申請３（就労関係の在留資格・家族滞在の方） 12(2) · Checked on 2026-10-22
The 2017 guideline's economy and industry categories included about three or more years running a listed or comparable Japanese company, three years of management with continuous investment of at least one hundred million yen, about five years as a manager in such a company, a nationwide-selected industry award, advanced engineering work and about five years on IoT or regenerative-medicine projects.
Quote from the source
日本国内の企業の経営におおむね３年以上従事したことがある者で，その間に継続して１億円以上の投資を行うことにより我が国の経済又は産業の発展に貢献のあった者
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
「我が国への貢献」に関するガイドライン（平成29年4月26日改定） 3 経済・産業分野 · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2017-04-26
The 2017 guideline's culture, education, research, sports and other categories included authoritative arts prizes, about three years as a leader in the arts in Japan, about three years as a full-time professor, associate professor or lecturer at a Japanese university, research results shown by citations, publication in refereed or authoritative journals or highly rated talks at authoritative academic societies, top placings in international sports events together with about three years of coaching or promotion in Japan, and nationwide-selected social or welfare awards.
Quote from the source
研究活動により顕著な成果を挙げたと認められる次の者
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
「我が国への貢献」に関するガイドライン（平成29年4月26日改定） 4〜8 · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2017-04-26
The overview checklist for the point-based routes asks for a points calculation sheet as of the filing date and supporting evidence for the points in every route, and also a copy of the points-calculation result notice (80 points or more) from Highly Skilled Professionals at 80 points.
Quote from the source
高度専門職ポイント計算結果通知書
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可申請にかかる提出書類一覧表（概要版（就労資格）） 18〜21 · Checked on 2026-10-22
The Tokyo Legal Affairs Bureau, updated 4 September 2026, asks for resident-tax assessment and payment certificates for the last five years, proof that resident tax was paid on time over those five years unless withheld at source, and a driving-record certificate for five years issued within two months.
Quote from the source
総所得金額が記載された都道府県・市区町村民税の課税証明書又は非課税証明書（直近５年分）
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
帰化許可申請書に添付する書類（その他の国籍・地域の方）：東京法務局納税に関する各種証明書・運転記録証明書 · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2026-09-04
The same bureau asks for the last two years of pension, National Health Insurance, late-stage elderly and long-term-care premium payment certificates, with proof of payment by the due date, unless premiums are deducted from pay.
Quote from the source
社会保険料を適正な時期に納めていることを証する資料（直近２年分）
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
帰化許可申請書に添付する書類（その他の国籍・地域の方）：東京法務局社会保険の納付証明書 · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2026-09-04
The Ministry's list of main naturalization documents is the application form with photo, a family summary, a statement of motive, a résumé, summaries of livelihood and business, a resident record, proof of nationality, proof of family relations, tax proof and income proof, and the Tokyo bureau adds all passport pages, a driving record, deposit certificates or passbook transaction history and a rental contract.
Quote from the source
帰化許可申請に必要となる主な書類は、次のとおりです。
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
国籍Ｑ＆Ａ（法務省民事局）Ｑ１１ · Checked on 2026-10-22
The Ministry states that the required level of Japanese is enough for daily life in speaking and in reading and writing, with 10 or more years of residence as part of integration, and names no formal test; the Tokyo bureau only asks applicants who have taken tests such as the JLPT or J.TEST to bring the results.
Quote from the source
日常生活を営むのに十分な日本語能力（会話及び読み書き）を有することや10年以上在留していることなど、日本社会に融和していることが必要です。
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
国籍Ｑ＆Ａ（法務省民事局）Ｑ９ · Checked on 2026-10-22
The Ministry gives no standard processing period, no review criteria and no appeal procedure for naturalization applications, which are filed in writing in person at the legal affairs bureau, so processing times depend on the bureau.
Quote from the source
標準処理期間ありません。不服申立方法ありません。
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
帰化許可申請（行政手続の案内）手続案内 · Checked on 2026-10-22
On the overview checklist, a second points sheet calculated as of an earlier date is also asked for: as of one year before filing on the 80-point route and three years before on the 70-point route, from applicants who are not already Highly Skilled Professionals at that score; an 80-point Highly Skilled Professional gives it only if the result notice shows fewer than 80 points.
Quote from the source
高度専門職ポイント計算表 ○（結果通知書で ○（１年前時 ○（１年前時 ○（１年前時 ○（３年前時 ○（３年前時 ○（３年前時 20 （永住許可申請の●年前時点） 80点未満の場合）点）点）点）点）点）点）
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可申請にかかる提出書類一覧表（概要版（就労資格）） 20 高度専門職ポイント計算表（永住許可申請の●年前時点） · Checked on 2026-10-23

Recent changes

From 1 April 2027, Article 22(2) is amended so the national-interest test expressly refers to compliance with obligations under the Act and payment of taxes and other public charges.
Quote from the source
この法律に規定する義務の遵守、公租公課の支払等その者の永住が日本国の利益に合すると認めたとき
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
出入国管理及び難民認定法（e-Gov 法令検索・2027-04-01施行版／令和6年法律第60号）第22条第2項 · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
The separate 'contribution to Japan' permanent-residence guideline is abolished on 31 March 2027, when the October 2026 guideline takes over.
Quote from the source
令和９年３月３１日をもって、「我が国への貢献があると認められる者への永住許可のガイドライン」は廃止といたします
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可（入管法第22条）お知らせ · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-03-31
Which guideline applies depends on the filing date: the February 2026 text up to 31 March 2026; the February text for 1 April 2026 to 31 March 2027 except that the October 2026 income provisions apply; and the October 2026 text for filings from 1 April 2027.
Quote from the source
収入に関する部分のみ、「永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年１０月１日改定）」の第２の４（２）及び第２の５（７）を適用します
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可（入管法第22条）お知らせ · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2026-10-01
The October 2026 guideline revision applies in full to filings from 1 April 2027, though its income and public-burden provisions also reach pending cases filed within six months before the revision date.
Quote from the source
本ガイドラインの改定は令和９年４月１日以降の申請から適用します
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年１０月１日改定）第6 · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
The comprehensive measures set by the ministerial council on foreign nationals on 23 January 2026 list, as a future issue, reviewing the livelihood and national-interest requirements for permanent residence and considering a Japanese and rules-learning programme as a condition.
Quote from the source
永住許可基準について、永住許可を行う趣旨を踏まえた独立生計要件や国益要件についての見直し
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
外国人の受入れ・秩序ある共生のための総合的対応策（令和８年１月２３日） ⑤ⅳ 施策番号36 · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2026-01-23
The ISA held a public comment period from 4 August to 3 September 2026 on the draft revision of the permanent-residence guideline, and on the draft revocation guideline, before the October 2026 versions were issued.
Quote from the source
令和８年８月４日から同年９月３日まで実施したパブリック・コメントの結果は以下のサイトからご確認願います
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可（入管法第22条）お知らせ · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2026-08-04
From 1 April 2027 a permanent resident's status can be revoked if the holder fails to comply with obligations set out in the Immigration Control Act (the separate address-notification grounds excepted) or deliberately fails to pay taxes and public charges (Art. 22-4(1)(viii)).
Quote from the source
永住者の在留資格をもつて在留する者が、この法律に規定する義務を遵守せず
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
出入国管理及び難民認定法（e-Gov 法令検索・2027-04-01施行版／令和6年法律第60号）第22条の4第1項第8号 · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
The same amendment adds a revocation ground for a permanent resident sentenced to imprisonment for specified intentional offences such as theft, fraud, extortion, murder or dangerous driving causing injury (Art. 22-4(1)(ix)).
Quote from the source
永住者の在留資格をもつて在留する者が、刑法第二編第十二章
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
出入国管理及び難民認定法（e-Gov 法令検索・2027-04-01施行版／令和6年法律第60号）第22条の4第1項第9号 · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
The ISA's guideline on revoking permanent residence takes effect on 1 April 2027, the same date as the amendment.
Quote from the source
本ガイドラインは、令和９年４月１日から運用を開始いたします
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住者の在留資格の取消しに関するガイドラインについて · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
From 1 April 2026 the Ministry of Justice requires, as a rule, 10 or more years of residence for the 'integration into Japanese society' criterion and checks tax and social insurance payments over a longer period.
Quote from the source
原則として１０年以上在留し、日本社会に融和していることを必要とする
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
法務大臣閣議後記者会見の概要（令和８年３月２７日） · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2026-04-01
The Minister said the law's 5-year domicile condition remains and the change is an administrative review within ministerial discretion, intended to align with permanent residence screening.
Quote from the source
帰化申請者が国籍法の定める５年以上の住所条件を満たしていることを前提とした上で
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
法務大臣閣議後記者会見の概要（令和８年３月２７日） · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2026-04-01
By filing date: up to 31 March 2026 the February 2026 guideline applies; 1 April 2026 to 31 March 2027 the February text applies except that the October 2026 income provisions (second part 4(2)) and public-burden provision (5(7)) also apply; from 1 April 2027 the October 2026 text applies in full.
Quote from the source
収入に関する部分のみ、「永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年１０月１日改定）」の第２の４（２）及び第２の５（７）を適用します。
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可（入管法第22条）お知らせ：「永住許可に関するガイドライン」の適用についてお知らせ · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2026-10-01
The October pension-and-asset test (second part 4(3)) is not among the provisions applied early, so it applies only to filings made on or after 1 April 2027; earlier filings are subject only to the early-applied income and public-burden provisions (second part 4(2) and 5(7)), not to a pension test.
Quote from the source
本ガイドラインの改定は令和９年４月１日以降の申請から適用します。
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年１０月１日改定）第6 · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
The Minister of Justice said on 4 August 2026 that the guideline as a whole starts on 1 April 2027 but income is applied from the 1 October 2026 revision date, because income is central to judging whether the applicant can support themselves.
Quote from the source
ガイドライン全体の運用開始は令和９年４月１日でありますが、収入については、ガイドラインの改定日である令和８年１０月１日から適用を開始することとしています。
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
法務大臣閣議後記者会見の概要（令和8年8月4日）質疑応答 · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2026-08-04
Conduct before the 1 April 2027 effective date is not ignored for the tax ground: the revocation guideline says deliberate non-payment after the grant of permanent residence but before the law took effect still counts if it comes to light afterwards, although a single moment before the effective date alone will not trigger revocation and later payment is considered.
Quote from the source
永住許可後から改正法の施行前に故意に公租公課の支払をしていないことが改正法の施行後に判明した場合も、８号の在留資格の取消事由に該当することとなります。
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住者の在留資格の取消しに関するガイドライン第2の2(2)（注２） · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
Under the revocation guideline, a permanent resident who received a prison sentence after being granted permanent residence (even before the amended law took effect, and for any offence) and is then sentenced to prison again for a listed offence is expected to have the status revoked, while a first such sentence is expected to lead to a change of status instead.
Quote from the source
永住許可後（改正法の施行前を含む）に拘禁刑前科（９号で規定している刑罰法令に限りません。）があり、更に同号で規定している刑罰法令により拘禁刑に処せられた場合には
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住者の在留資格の取消しに関するガイドライン第4の2(3) · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
The programme for learning Japanese and Japanese rules, which the January 2026 measures said could become a condition of permanent residence, had not been created as of the 1 October 2026 answers and was still under consideration.
Quote from the source
現時点において、「日本語や我が国の制度・ルール等を学習するプログラム」の創設については、現在検討中です。
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン案改定に係る意見募集の結果について（別紙：御意見の要旨及び御意見に対する考え方） No.54 (別紙) · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2026-10-01
Since the stricter Business Manager standards took effect on 16 October 2025, permanent residence cannot be granted from Business Manager, or from Highly Skilled Professional (i)(c) or (ii) based on management, to anyone who does not meet the revised standard, even though existing holders are protected on renewal.
Quote from the source
施行日後、改正後の許可基準に適合していない場合は、「経営・管理」、「高度専門職１号ハ」又は「高度専門職２号」（「経営・管理」活動を前提とするもの）からの永住許可
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
在留資格「経営・管理」に係る上陸基準省令等の改正について 3 永住許可申請等について · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2025-10-16
The letter of guarantee for a permanent-residence application is a single-page form in which the guarantor, signing by hand, pledges to give the support needed for the applicant to obey Japanese law and properly perform public duties while in Japan.
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(永住許可申請用) 身元保証書
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
身元保証書（永住許可申請用）様式 · Checked on 2026-10-22
The October 2026 guideline abolishes the stand-alone 'contribution to Japan' guideline and, in its own section 4, lists the people regarded as having contributed: holders of government honours, people who served about five years on government committees, international prizewinners, diplomatic and consular staff, former heads of international organisations, directors of Prime-market listed companies for five years, winners of nationwide-selected awards, arts prizewinners and top sports finishers.
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○ 日本政府又は地方自治体から委員等として任命、委嘱等されて公共の利益を目的とする活動をおおむね５年以上行った者であって、その活動により公共の利益への貢献のあった者
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年１０月１日改定）第4 · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
In his 27 March 2026 press conference the Minister of Justice announced that from 1 April 2026 naturalization screening requires, in principle, 10 or more years of residence for the 'integration into Japanese society' criterion and checks tax and social-insurance payments over a longer period.
Quote from the source
素行の善良性・生計条件につき、税金や社会保険料の納付状況を確認する期間を延ばす旨の厳格化を実施します。
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
法務大臣閣議後記者会見の概要（令和8年3月27日）会見 · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2026-04-01

Not confirmed (2)

Not confirmed: No ISA text found defines whether a change of employer, a change of status or a gap of unemployment breaks the 'continuous' 5 years; the only continuity-related test the guideline states is the absence rule, so a status change or job change is not itself stated to reset the count.
Quote from the source
申請時点から過去１０年以内において、合理的な理由なく、一回の出国で半年以上不在とした期間がある場合又は通算して２年６月以上不在とした場合は原則として消極評価をします
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年１０月１日改定）第2の5(6) · Checked on 2026-10-22 · In force from 2027-04-01
Not confirmed: No rule on re-filing after a refusal (waiting period, number of attempts) or on withdrawing a pending permanent-residence application was found on the ISA pages; the online-application FAQ says only that an accepted application is withdrawn by contacting the office that accepted it, and permanent-residence applications cannot be filed through the online system at all.
Quote from the source
在留申請オンラインシステム上で申請を取り下げることはできませんので、申請を受け付けた地方出入国在留管理官署にご連絡ください。
Quote matched the source on 2026-10-23
オンラインによる申請手続に関するＱ＆ＡＡ４－32 · Checked on 2026-10-22