Introduction
Many individuals considering permanent residency in Japan worry about how frequent overseas business trips might affect their application, even if they have lived in Japan for over 10 years. In reality, having a high number of days abroad annually can lead to difficulties in being recognized as having “continuous residence,” making the application more challenging. This article explains the impact of overseas travel on permanent residency applications and provides strategies based on the guidelines from the Ministry of Justice.
Basic Requirements for Permanent Residency Application (Revised November 2023)
The Immigration Services Agency of Japan outlines three key requirements for permanent residency:
- Good Conduct Requirement: No fines or imprisonment; no unpaid pension or insurance premiums.
- Independent Livelihood Requirement: Typically, an annual income of ¥3 million for single individuals; possession of savings, real estate, or other assets.
- Public Interest Requirement: Continuous residence of over 10 years (with at least 5 years under a work visa); holding a visa with the longest stay period (3 or 5 years).
Notably, “continuous residence” means not just uninterrupted residency but also that Japan is the center of one’s life.
Risks of Frequent Overseas Business Trips
Guidelines for Days Abroad:
- Less than 100 days per year: Generally not a problem.
- 120-150 days per year: Additional explanations are required.
- Over 180 days per year: Generally not approved.
Specific Examples:
- A single trip lasting over three months.
- Total overseas stay exceeding six months annually.
These cases risk being judged as having a life base overseas.
Four Strategies for Frequent Travelers
- Proof of Residency Status:
- Resident Certificate: No overseas relocation history.
- Tax Payment Certificate: Record of tax payments in Japan.
- Employment Contract: Continuous employment with a Japanese company.
- Justification of Travel Reasons:
- Official Travel Orders: Company’s formal instructions.
- Specific Details of Deployment Periods: e.g., “April-June 2024: Assignment at Singapore branch.”
- Timing Adjustment:
- Apply when travel frequency decreases.
- Utilize the Highly Skilled Professional Points System (which offers relaxed requirements).
- Consultation with Experts:
- If annual days abroad exceed 120.
- Cases involving multiple international relocations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Is monthly travel for a week (60 days annually) over five years problematic?
→ If continuity is recognized, approval is more likely. However, attach documents explaining travel purposes and content.
Q. Can I apply for permanent residency after a three-month overseas training?
→ Possible if the training is a one-time event and you maintain a residence base in Japan afterward. Records of municipal tax payments are crucial.
Application Preparation Checklist
- Past five years’ passport (for entry/exit stamps).
- Company-issued travel history report.
- Municipal tax payment certificate (issued by city, ward, town, or village).
- Copy of health insurance card.
- Proof of deposit balance (targeting over ¥3 million).
Conclusion
For permanent residency applications, “over 10 years of residence” is not just about the number of days but about the actual life circumstances in Japan. For those with frequent overseas trips:
- Consult experts if annual days abroad exceed 100.
- Prepare formal company travel documents.
- Use resident certificates and tax records to prove continuous ties to Japan.
The Ministry of Justice’s latest guidelines note that unavoidable circumstances for travel will be considered. Proper document preparation can increase the chances of obtaining permanent residency.
