Permanent residency in Japan: requirements, exceptions and fees (2026)

Permanent residency is the most common status among foreigners in Japan: 947,125 people held it at the end of 2025. It is becoming harder and more expensive to obtain, with a ¥200,000 fee since 1 October 2026, stricter requirements and new rules from 1 April 2027. Here is where the rules stand.

The basic requirement: 10 years in Japan

As a general rule, you need at least 10 years of continuous residence in Japan, including 5 years under an eligible work or residence status. Years spent as a Technical Intern Trainee or as a Specified Skilled Worker (i) do not count towards those 5 years (ACROSEED, updated 15 October 2026).

Exceptions that shorten the wait

Source: ACROSEED.

The other requirements

• Good conduct: you must respect the law, including traffic rules.
• Financial independence: a stable income, without relying on welfare.
• Taxes and contributions paid: taxes, pension and public health insurance, including your payment history.
• Maximum period of stay: you must normally hold the longest period of stay available for your status. A 3-year period is enough for applications filed by 31 March 2027. After that, the longest period actually available is generally required, with a transitional measure.

Source: ACROSEED.

Stricter rules since October 2026

The government announced stricter rules, applied in stages from 1 October 2026. According to Euronews, they cover:

• an annual income above the average;
• pension entitlements equivalent to 30 years of contributions;
• conversational Japanese;
• an understanding of social rules.

Check the exact terms of each requirement with the Immigration Services Agency when you apply.

How much does it cost to apply?

Since 1 October 2026, an application for permanent residency costs ¥200,000, compared with ¥10,000 before (Immigration Services Agency). All the other residence fees are in our guide to Japan visa renewal fees.

Why prepare your application early

Permanent residency also has practical benefits. When buying property, for example, it is often what you need to get a mortgage: see our guide to buying property in Japan.

Since regular contributions count in the review, keep a record of your health insurance and pension payments. Our guide to health insurance and pension in Japan explains how these contributions work.

Review your situation

Before you apply, review your length of stay, your status and your contributions. For everyday formalities such as city hall, insurance and your My Number card, Kizuna Relo supports you with your settling-in formalities. Tell us about your project.