Japan has opened a new avenue for Indians seeking long-term residence, offering Permanent Residency (PR) for Rs 15,000. This move is expected to attract skilled professionals and families looking for stability and global opportunities.
Why Japan PR Matters
For many Indians, Japan is not just a travel destination but a place to build a career and life. A PR status allows indefinite stay without the need for visa renewals and grants rights similar to Japanese nationals in terms of work and residence.
Key Benefits:
- Freedom to change employers without visa-related restrictions.
- Family members gain secure residential status.
- Ability to buy property, access loans, and start businesses.
Eligibility Criteria For Japan PR
Applicants must meet specific residency and financial criteria. The major pathways include:
- Standard Route: Minimum of 10 consecutive years of residence in Japan.
- Marriage Route: Available after three years of marriage to a Japanese national or PR holder and one year of residence.
- Children of Japanese Nationals/PR Holders: Eligible after one year of residence.
- Highly Skilled Professionals: Fast-track PR through a point-based system.
- 70 points → Apply after three years.
- 80 points → Apply after one year.
Additional conditions include proof of stable income, clean criminal record, and tax payment history.
Required Documentation
Applicants need to prepare and submit several documents, including:
- Personal Documents: Residence Card, Passport, Certificate of Residence, Resume/CV.
- Tax Records: Proof of national and local tax payments.
- Insurance and Pension: Pension payment records, health insurance certificates.
- Employment Proof: Certificate of employment, recent salary slips, and income tax return (for self-employed).
- Family Documents: Marriage certificate, birth certificates, and family registry (if applicable).
- Professional Proof: Educational certificates and proof of Highly Skilled Professional points.
Tips To Improve Approval Chances
- Maintain continuous employment and financial stability.
- Submit accurate and complete documentation.
- Learn basic Japanese to show integration efforts.
- Avoid any legal violations to prevent delays or rejection.
Estimated Costs For Indian Applicants
| Item | Fee (¥) | Approximate Cost (Rs) |
|---|---|---|
| Application Fee | ¥8,000 | Rs 4,789 |
| Revenue Stamp | ¥8,000 | Rs 4,789 |
| Residence Card Issuance | ¥5,000 | Rs 2,993 |
| Document Translation/Notary | ¥4,500/page | Rs 2,693/page |
Note: Costs may vary if professional legal assistance is used.
Japan PR vs Citizenship
- Permanent Residency: Allows indefinite stay but retains Indian citizenship. Does not grant voting rights or Japanese passport.
- Citizenship: Grants full rights but requires renouncing Indian citizenship, as Japan does not allow dual nationality.
Life in Japan: Things to Do
Once settled, Japan offers a perfect mix of tradition and modernity:
- Tokyo: Shibuya Crossing, Akihabara, shopping hubs.
- Kyoto: Temples, geisha districts, tea houses.
- Osaka: Street food culture, nightlife, Osaka Castle.
- Hokkaido: Winter sports, hot springs.
- Okinawa: Beaches, coral reefs, tropical culture.
- Mount Fuji: Hiking and scenic views.
Processing Time
The processing period typically ranges from 17 to 19 months, depending on individual cases.
Family Inclusion
Dependents can be included if the main applicant meets income and housing requirements.
Revocation of PR
Permanent residency may be revoked if:
- Taxes remain unpaid.
- Serious crimes are committed.
- The individual stays outside Japan for extended periods.
