Overview of the Proposed Guidelines on the Revocation of Permanent Resident Status

Japan's Ministry of Justice has published the Proposed Guidelines on the Revocation of Permanent Resident Status.

The proposed guidelines aim to clarify the interpretation and application of the new grounds for revoking permanent resident status introduced by the 2024 amendment to the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act. They also provide examples of situations in which revocation may be considered.

The proposal addresses three newly added grounds for revocation:

Intentional non-payment of public taxes and public charges; Violations of obligations under the Immigration Control Act; Violations of specified criminal laws.

Regarding the intentional non-payment of public taxes and charges, the proposal explains that it applies to individuals who knowingly fail to fulfill their payment obligations. Factors such as the circumstances of non-payment and the individual's living situation are to be considered. Cases involving illness, natural disasters, unemployment, or other circumstances not attributable to the individual are excluded.

For violations of obligations under the Immigration Control Act, the proposal covers breaches of statutory obligations or prohibitions, while recognizing that legitimate reasons such as illness or disasters may exempt an individual from revocation.

For violations of specified criminal laws, the proposal states that intentional offenses are covered, including cases in which a custodial sentence has been suspended.

The proposal also indicates that, where revocation is not considered appropriate, the status of residence may instead be changed to another status, such as Long-Term Resident, with the individual's subsequent residence status being monitored.

In addition, the proposal explains that national and local government authorities may provide relevant information to the Immigration Services Agency when they believe revocation grounds may exist. After fact-finding and the opportunity for the individual to be heard, the Minister of Justice will determine whether revocation is appropriate.

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

If you have any questions regarding permanent residence or immigration status, please feel free to contact us.

For more information about our Permanent Residence and Immigration Services, please visit: https://hayashi-office.site/