Introduction

For foreign nationals who have lived in Japan for many years and are aiming for permanent residency (Status of Residence: Permanent Resident), a reduction in the period of stay from “3 years” to “1 year” can be a major concern. Especially if this happens during the application process for permanent residency, many worry, “Will my application be rejected?” This article explains the impact of such a change on your application and practical countermeasures, based on information from official sources such as the Immigration Services Agency of Japan.

Difference Between Permanent Resident Application and Extension of Period of Stay

First, applying for permanent residency and applying for an extension of period of stay are completely separate procedures. The permanent resident application is for those wishing to change their current status to “Permanent Resident” and must be submitted before the expiration date of your current period of stay. On the other hand, the extension of period of stay is the procedure to continue residing in Japan under your current status. Applying for permanent residency does not automatically extend your period of stay.

Risk of Shortened Period of Stay During Application

One requirement for permanent residency is that you must be residing in Japan with the longest possible period of stay for your current status. For example, for statuses such as “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” or “Spouse or Child of Japanese National,” a period of “3 years” or “5 years” is generally required.

However, if you apply for both permanent residency and extension of period of stay at the same time, and the result of the extension is a shortened period (e.g., “1 year”), you will no longer meet this requirement, and your application for permanent residency is likely to be rejected.

When Is the Period of Stay Shortened?

During the extension review, your past residency status, tax payment, social insurance enrollment, and compliance with laws are comprehensively evaluated. Frequent job changes, unpaid taxes or social insurance, and even minor legal violations may result in your period of stay being shortened from “3 years” to “1 year”.

Practical Countermeasures to Avoid Rejection

1. Adjusting Application Timing
If your period of stay is less than three months, you can apply for both permanent residency and extension at the same time. However, if you are concerned about your residency history, it is effective to first apply only for the extension, and after obtaining a 3-year or 5-year period, then apply for permanent residency.

2. Reviewing and Improving Residency Status

• Check for unpaid taxes or social insurance, and pay them promptly if any
• Always submit notifications when changing jobs or moving
• Prevent recurrence of even minor violations and demonstrate sincere conduct

3. Enhancing Application Documents and Explanations
Clearly explain the reasons for the shortened period in your documents, such as reasons for job changes or tax delays, and show improvement plans.

4. Temporarily Withdrawing the Application
If your period of stay is shortened to one year, you may withdraw your permanent residency application and reapply after obtaining a 3-year or 5-year period at your next extension. This helps avoid the risk of rejection.

Example

Example: Ms. A (30s, Chinese national, Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services, 8 years in Japan) applied for permanent residency and extension at the same time. Due to frequent job changes and delayed tax payments, her period of stay was shortened to one year. She temporarily withdrew her permanent residency application, ensured full compliance for a year, and reapplied after obtaining a 3-year period.

Conclusion

If your period of stay is shortened during your permanent residency application, you may not meet the requirements and risk rejection. Review your residency status, ensure tax and social insurance payments, and comply with all laws. Adjusting your application timing and, if necessary, temporarily withdrawing your application are effective strategies. Always check the latest information from the Immigration Services Agency of Japan and consult with a specialist as needed.