What’s the average number of Permanent Residence applications?
Applications for permanent residence require that one prove long-term, stable residence in Japan and contributions to society, so the screening criteria are extremely strict. As a result, it is not uncommon for the first application to be rejected.
1️⃣ Success rate of permanent residency applications and the average number of applications
✅ Cases where approval is granted on the first application: approximately 60%–70%
✅ Cases where approval is granted on the second application: approximately 20%
✅ Cases where three or more reapplications are required: approximately 10%
💡 Average number of applications: 1.2–1.5
However, even if an application is initially rejected, making improvements to address the issues often leads to approval upon reapplication for Long-Term Resident status.
2️⃣ Main Reasons for Denial and Improvement Measures
❌ Reasons for Denial:
- Incomplete or erroneous documentation
- Non-payment or arrears of taxes and social insurance contributions
- Annual income below the required standard (a stable income is necessary)
- Poor conduct (e.g., traffic violations, minor criminal records, etc.)
- Instability in residence period or employment status
✅ Improvement Measures for Reapplication:
- 書Verify the accuracy of your documents and ensure that all required materials are fully prepared.
- Reconfirm your tax certificates and the status of your social insurance payments.
- Provide additional documentation to demonstrate that your annual income and job details are stable.
- If there are any minor violations, prepare supplementary documents explaining the corrective measures taken.
3️⃣ List of Documents Required for a Permanent Residence Application
Basic Documents:
📁 Documents Pertaining to the Applicant
- Long-Term Resident Application Form
- Copies of your passport and Residence Card
- Certificate of Residence (showing all household members)）
- Resident Tax Certificate/Tax Payment Certificate (documents for the past 5 years are recommended)
- Social Insurance Payment Certificate
- Proof of Income (e.g., withholding slip, pay statements, etc.)
- Tax Payment Certificate for resident taxes
- Statement of Reasons (explaining why you wish to obtain Long-Term Resident status)
📁 Documents Pertaining to Your Employer or Business (for those holding a work visa)
- Employment Certificate
- Certificate of Registered Matters for your workplace (if self-employed, submit your tax return documents)
- Pay statements (from the most recent 3 months)
📁 Documents Proving Family Relationships (for those holding a spouse visa, etc.)
- Family Register or Marriage Certificate
- Copies of Residence Cards for your spouse and children (if residing together)
Note: The required documents may vary depending on your nationality and current residence status, so it is essential to verify the requirements in advance.
4️⃣ Basic Requirements for a Permanent Residence Application
For a Long-Term Resident application, the following conditions must be met:
✅ Continuous period of residence in Japan
- General residence status (e.g., work visa): 10 years or more
- Japanese spouse visa/Long-Term Resident spouse visa: At least 1 year
- Highly Skilled Professional (point-based system): Minimum of 1–3 years
✅ Stable income and the ability to financially support oneself
- ✅ Annual Income Guideline: Approximately ¥3,000,000–¥4,000,000 or higher (depending on the number of dependents)
4️⃣ Examination Period and Timing for Reapplication
- Normal review period: Approximately 6 months to 1 year
- Reapplication in case of denial: If the application is denied, you may reapply after 6 months, provided you have addressed and improved upon the reasons for the refusal.
- Note on reapplication: Reapplying with the same documents without making any improvements will not lead to approval. It is essential to submit revised documents that reflect the necessary improvements.
5️⃣ Summary
💡 Although Long-Term Resident applications are often approved on the first submission, about 30% require reapplication.
💡 For reapplications following a denial, it is crucial to thoroughly analyze the reasons for the refusal and implement appropriate improvements.
💡 Engaging professionals such as administrative scriveners can significantly enhance the approval rate.
With careful preparation and proper support, aim to secure your Long-Term Resident status with confidence!
