Introduction

Renewing a “Long-Term Resident” visa in Japan is a crucial step for foreigners who wish to continue living in the country. Many are concerned that an annual income of less than 2 million yen might result in a denied renewal. In this article, we explain the actual criteria for “stable income” during the renewal process, steps you can take if your income is low, and the key points of screening. All information is based on official public sources such as the Immigration Services Agency of Japan.

What Income Is Required for Long-Term Resident Visa Renewal?

There is no explicit legal description stating “annual income must be more than a certain amount.” However, in practice, the welfare standard serves as a benchmark. For a married couple, an annual income of 2 million yen or more is generally considered desirable. The required income increases with family size. For freelancers and sole proprietors, it is essential to provide tax returns and sales ledgers as proof of income.​

How Is Stable Income Judged?

The most important factor in screening is household financial stability. Specific screening points include:

• Applicant and family income situation
• Employment type (full-time employee, part-time, self-employed, etc.)
• Submission of payslips, tax certificates, and proof of taxation
• Whether continued income is expected (e.g., offer letter for a new job)
• Tax payment status for resident tax, health insurance, etc.

If the spouse or family members earn a stable income, the applicant’s low income may be supplemented with income certificates from family members.​

Cases Where Renewal Is Possible Even with Low Income

If family or spouse have a stable income, submitting their income proof can demonstrate household financial stability. If you receive remittances from overseas or suffer a temporary income drop (e.g., childcare leave), submission of a statement of reasons, remittance records, or letter of employment re-entry can help pass the screening.​

Concrete Examples

• Spouse is a full-time employee; applicant is temporarily unemployed. Use the spouse’s income certificate.
• Income comes from overseas remittances; provide remittance records and bank statements.
• If last year’s income was low but employment is secured this year, attach the offer letter.

Cases Prone to Denial and Cautions

Conversely, renewal is likely to be denied in cases such as:

• Both applicant and family are unemployed and receive public welfare benefits (this is usually a denial criterion)
• Failure to pay taxes (resident tax, national health insurance, etc.)
• Income is only from temporary part-time jobs, lacking stable sources
• Falsified or incomplete documentation

If any of these apply, be sure to resolve outstanding tax issues and carefully explain your household situation and future income prospects in a statement of reasons.​

Main Documents Needed for Screening

• Tax certificates and proof of taxation
• Payslips, employment contracts, certificate of employment
• Income certificates from spouse/family (if applicable)
• Remittance records or bank certificates (for financial support)
• Statement of reasons (explaining income shortfall or future prospects)

Summary

The renewal of a Long-Term Resident visa in Japan does not automatically result in denial just because annual income is less than 2 million yen. However, if your household income falls below the welfare standard, screening becomes much stricter. Decisions are made based on a comprehensive review of income situation, family support, future prospects, taxable history, and documentation. When applying, prepare documents that illustrate overall family stability. If you are concerned, consult an administrative scrivener or immigration specialist.