Introduction

Obtaining permanent residency is a major goal for many foreign nationals in Japan. However, if you have changed your residency status multiple times or frequently traveled back to your home country, you may wonder how to calculate your residency period for a permanent residency application. This article explains, based on official information from the Ministry of Justice and Immigration Services Agency, how to accurately calculate your residency period in such cases.

Basic Requirements for Residency Period

One of the main requirements for permanent residency is “continuous residence in Japan for at least 10 years” (Ministry of Justice “Guidelines for Permanent Residence Permit”). “Continuous” means that you have been legally staying in Japan without interruption under a valid status of residence.
However, there are exceptions, such as preferential treatment for Highly Skilled Professionals (see Immigration Services Agency “Point-based Evaluation System”).

Calculating Residency Period with Frequent Status Changes

If you have changed your status of residence, as long as there is no gap between your statuses, your residency periods can be combined. For example, if you changed from a “Student” visa to an “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” visa, all periods are cumulative as long as there was no gap.
However, periods without a valid status (such as overstaying or unauthorized activities) are not counted.

Calculating Residency Period with Frequent Temporary Returns

If you frequently return to your home country, as a general rule, short-term returns of less than three months do not affect the continuity of your residency (Immigration Services Agency “Permanent Residence Application 4”).
On the other hand, long-term returns exceeding three months, or frequent long-term returns, may be considered an interruption of residency.
Even with multiple short-term returns, you can generally prove your residency through entry/exit records and your residence card.

Utilizing the Highly Skilled Professional Point System

If you use the Highly Skilled Professional point system, you can apply for permanent residency after five years with 70 points or after one year with 80 points (Ministry of Justice “Guidelines for Permanent Residence Permit”).
Even if you have frequent status changes or temporary returns, you may be able to apply earlier by using the point system.

Case Study

Mr. B (Chinese national) entered Japan in April 2014 on a “Student” visa, changed to an “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” visa in April 2018, and then to a “Highly Skilled Professional” visa in April 2022. He also made two short-term returns (two weeks each) per year.
In this case, all status changes were legal and temporary returns were short, so the residency period can be calculated from April 2014.
As of April 2024, he has 10 years of residency, and if he has 80 points or more, he can apply even earlier.

Documents to Prove Continuity

To prove the continuity of your residency, the following documents are useful:

• Passport entry/exit stamps
• Copies of your residence card
• Resident record history
• Health insurance and pension records

Preparing these documents will help you prove your continuous residency and actual life in Japan.

Points to Note and Consulting a Specialist

If you have frequent status changes or temporary returns, it is important to carefully prepare your application and supporting documents.
Since individual cases may require special consideration, it is recommended to consult with a specialist, such as a certified administrative procedures legal specialist (Gyoseishoshi).

Conclusion

When calculating your residency period for permanent residency, the main point is whether your legal residency has been continuous, even if you have changed your status or made temporary returns.
Short-term returns and status changes generally do not disadvantage you, but be careful with long-term returns or gaps in your status.
If you are unsure about your situation, consult a specialist and prepare accurate information and documents.