Introduction

Obtaining Permanent Resident Status in Japan is a major goal for many foreign nationals seeking a stable life. However, unexpected unemployment or a decrease in income during the application process can cause significant anxiety. This article explains the impact of losing your job during the application for permanent residency and provides concrete countermeasures, based on the latest official information.

Income Requirements for Permanent Residency

A stable income is a key requirement in the screening process for permanent residency. Since July 2019, applicants changing from a work-related status are required to submit tax certificates for the past five years. Generally, maintaining an annual income of at least 3 million yen for five consecutive years is considered the benchmark for eligibility.

Impact of Unemployment or Income Reduction During Application

1. Impact of Unemployment on the Application

While stable income is required at the time of application, losing your job after applying does not immediately result in rejection. Examiners review the applicant’s income situation over the past five years. Therefore, if you had stable income up to the application date, recent unemployment may not directly lead to denial.

If the unemployment was due to unavoidable circumstances (such as company bankruptcy or economic downturn) and you are actively seeking new employment, these factors may be considered on a case-by-case basis.

2. Countermeasures When Income Decreases

If your income temporarily drops due to social factors like the COVID-19 pandemic, and you can objectively prove these circumstances, examiners may exercise discretion. For example, if the income reduction affected not only you but also other employees at your workplace, or if your income has since recovered, submitting such evidence may increase the likelihood of approval.

Public Support Available During Unemployment or Income Reduction

If unemployment or income reduction makes daily life difficult, you can utilize various government and local support systems:

• Unemployment Insurance (Jobseeker’s Allowance)
  If you apply at Hello Work and meet certain requirements, you may receive unemployment benefits.
• Emergency Small Loans & Comprehensive Support Funds
  If you are struggling due to unemployment or income reduction, you may be eligible for temporary loans or support funds. Mid- to long-term residents are also eligible.
• Housing Security Benefits
  If you are at risk of losing your residence due to job loss or income reduction, you may receive rent assistance if you meet certain criteria.
• Social Insurance Premium Reduction
  If your income drops significantly, you may be eligible for reductions in national health insurance or nursing care insurance premiums.

What If Your Application Is Denied?

Even if your application is denied, you can reapply as long as you address the reasons for denial. The reasons for denial are recorded by immigration, but there is no limit on the number of applications. When reapplying, it is important to prepare documentation that addresses the previous reasons for denial.

Is Unemployment or Income Reduction a Reason for Revocation of Permanent Resident Status?

If you lose your job or your income decreases after obtaining permanent residency, your status is not immediately revoked if the circumstances are beyond your control (such as illness or unemployment). Whether your status is revoked will be determined based on individual circumstances.

Case Example

For example, Mr. A (male in his 30s, IT worker) lost his job due to his company’s downturn while applying for permanent residency. However, he had maintained a stable income for the past five years and actively sought new employment, finding a new job within three months. By submitting evidence of his unemployment period, job search, and the fact that his unemployment was company-related, he successfully obtained permanent residency.

Conclusion

Losing your job or experiencing a drop in income during the permanent resident application process does not automatically result in denial. The past five years’ income history, reasons for unemployment or income reduction, and efforts to find new employment are all considered. If your application is denied, you can reapply after addressing the reasons. It is important to gather sufficient evidence and respond appropriately. If you are unsure, consult with a certified administrative procedures legal specialist (gyoseishoshi) or other professionals as soon as possible.