Introduction

Among foreigners living in Japan, many aim to obtain permanent residency once their lives have stabilized. For those with a residence status as the spouse of a Japanese national or a permanent resident, some requirements for obtaining permanent residency may be relaxed. This article provides a detailed explanation of these relaxed requirements.

General Requirements for Obtaining Permanent Residency

Typically, to apply for permanent residency, the following requirements must be met:

• Residence Period: Generally, applicants must have lived in Japan for at least 10 years.
• Conduct Requirements: Applicants must comply with Japanese laws and maintain good conduct.
• Financial Independence: Applicants must be financially independent.
• Public Interest: The permanent residency must align with Japan’s public interest.

These standards apply to all permanent residency applicants, but there are exceptions for spouses of Japanese nationals.

Relaxed Requirements for Spouses of Japanese Nationals

For spouses or children of Japanese nationals, permanent residents, or special permanent residents, the following relaxations apply:

• Shortened Residence Period: Instead of the usual 10-year residence requirement, spouses of Japanese nationals can apply for permanent residency if they have been married for over three years and have continuously resided in Japan for at least one year.
• Proof of Stable Income: While applicants must demonstrate financial independence, the income of a Japanese spouse supporting the household is also considered. Specifically, tax certificates or income certificates are required to prove the dependency relationship.

Necessary Documents

For permanent residency applications, the following documents are primarily required:

• Application for Permanent Residency
• Spouse’s Family Register Certificate
• Resident Certificate
• Employment Certificate or Final Tax Return
• Tax Payment Certificates (for the past three years)

Proper preparation of these documents can facilitate a smoother review process.

Conclusion

When spouses of Japanese nationals apply for permanent residency, several relaxed measures are available compared to the general application requirements. However, it is crucial to accurately understand these requirements and properly prepare the necessary documents. Obtaining permanent residency is a significant step in establishing a stable life foundation in Japan, so it is recommended to proceed with the guidance of a professional.