Overview of the Proposed Revisions to Japan's Guidelines for Permanent Residence Permission

The Immigration Services Agency of Japan has released a proposed revision to its Guidelines for Permanent Residence Permission.

The proposed revisions focus primarily on the Independent Livelihood Requirement and the National Interest Requirement, while also introducing new considerations regarding Japanese language ability and understanding of Japan's social systems and rules.

According to the proposal, permanent resident status is described as the most stable legal status of residence, with no restrictions on activities or period of stay, and therefore requires particularly careful examination.

Regarding the Independent Livelihood Requirement, the proposal states that applicants should demonstrate not only their current financial capacity but also the ability to maintain an economic standard equivalent to or higher than that of Japanese nationals in the future. Income will be assessed based on whether it continuously exceeds the average household income corresponding to the applicant's household size. Future pension benefits will also be considered, and financial assets that can supplement any shortfall may be taken into account.

For the National Interest Requirement, the proposal introduces Japanese language proficiency at the CEFR B1 level, together with consideration of the applicant's understanding of Japan's systems and social rules, as well as school attendance by children of compulsory school age.

The proposal also includes revisions to the special residence period requirements applicable to spouses of Japanese nationals and permanent residents, extending the required marriage period from three to five years and the residence period in Japan from one to three years.

According to the proposal, the revised guidelines are expected to take effect in April 2027, while the provisions relating to income are scheduled to be implemented from October of this year. At present, these are proposed revisions, and the official guidelines have not yet been finalized.

Our office provides comprehensive support for permanent residence applications, visa applications, and immigration procedures in Japan.

If you are considering applying for permanent residence, please feel free to contact us.

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