Written By: Diego Castillo
Published: October 27, 2025

Japan has opened an incredible opportunity for Indian citizens who wish to live and work in the Land of the Rising Sun. The Japanese government is now offering Permanent Residency (PR) in Japan for Indians at a cost of just 8,000 yen (around ₹15,000), making it one of the most affordable global residency options.

This new Japan PR scheme for Indians allows long-term settlement without the hassle of renewing short-term visas every few years. With Japan’s Permanent Residency program, Indians can enjoy the freedom to live, work, and build a future in one of the world’s most advanced nations.

What Is Permanent Residency (PR) In Japan?

Permanent Residency (PR) in Japan is a special status that lets foreign people live in Japan forever without worrying about visa renewals. 

With Permanent Residency (PR) in Japan, you can stay in the country as long as you want. You don’t need to keep renewing your visa every 1-5 years like other foreign workers. This gives you much more freedom in your career.

What Is Permanent Residency (PR) In Japan
Source: Trails Of IndoChina

The PR status also lets you access social benefits like health insurance and pension plans. You can buy property, start a business, and get loans from banks more easily. 

Permanent Residency (PR) in Japan
Source: Pelago

Most importantly, Permanent Residency (PR) in Japan gives you security. You don’t have to worry about losing your legal status if you lose your job or face other problems. 

Eligibility Criteria For Permanent Residency (PR) In Japan

Getting Permanent Residency (PR) in Japan depends on how long you have lived there and your background. Japan has different paths for different types of people.

Eligibility TypeResidency RequirementAdditional Conditions
Standard Route10 years5 years on work/family visa, stable income, clean record
Marriage to a Japanese3 years marriage + 1 year residenceMust be legally married and living in Japan
Children of Nationals/PR1 year residencyMust be a child of a Japanese citizen or a PR holder
Highly Skilled Workers1-3 years (based on points)Points from education, salary, age, and experience

The most common way is the standard route. You need to live in Japan for at least 10 years continuously. During this time, you must have a valid work or family visa for at least 5 years. 

You also need to show that you have a stable income, pay taxes regularly, and have no criminal record.

Eligibility Criteria For Permanent Residency (PR) In Japan
Source: CSIS

If you are married to a Japanese person or a permanent resident, you can apply for Permanent Residency (PR) in Japan after 3 years of marriage and 1 year of living in Japan. 

Children of Japanese citizens or permanent residents can apply after just 1 year of residence.

Japan also has a special system for highly skilled workers. If you are a skilled professional, you can get Permanent Residency (PR) in Japan much faster. 

Documents Required For Permanent Residency (PR) In Japan
Source: Expatica

The government gives points based on your education, salary, age, and work experience. If you score 70 points, you can apply after just 3 years. If you score 80 points or more, you can apply after only 1 year.

Documents Required For Permanent Residency (PR) In Japan Application:

Applying for Permanent Residency (PR) in Japan requires these important documents. You must prepare everything carefully because missing papers can delay your application.

DocumentDescription / Notes
Application FormOfficial form from the Immigration Bureau, filled and signed
Passport & Residence CardCopies of valid travel and residence documents
Certificate of ResidenceAddress proof and household details from the city office
Employment and Income ProofJob certificates, salary slips, tax returns, bank statements
Tax Payment CertificatesProof of national and local tax payments
Guarantor LetterA letter from a Japanese citizen or PR holder supporting your application
Family DocumentsMarriage certificates, birth certificates if applicable

The most important documents include your completed application form, a valid passport, and a residence card. You also need a certificate of residence from your local city or ward office. 

All documents must be in Japanese or officially translated into Japanese. This can cost extra money, but it is required for your Permanent Residency (PR) in Japan application to be accepted.

How To Apply For Permanent Residency (PR) In Japan?

Getting Permanent Residency (PR) in Japan requires following these simple steps:

Step 1: Collect all required documents and get them translated into Japanese by certified translators.

Step 2: Visit your local Immigration Bureau office during business hours with a complete application package.

Step 3: Submit the application form and all supporting documents to the immigration officer for review.

Step 4: Pay the 8,000 yen application fee using revenue stamps available at the Immigration Bureau office.

Step 5: Receive a receipt and reference number for tracking your Permanent Residency (PR) in Japan application status.

Step 6: Wait 4-8 months for processing while maintaining a valid visa and residence in Japan.

Step 7: Respond quickly if the Immigration Bureau requests additional documents or schedules an interview.

Step 8: Receive approval notification by mail and visit the Immigration Bureau within the specified timeframe.

Step 9: Bring the notification letter, current residence card, and passport to collect a new PR card.

Step 10: Exchange your old residence card for a new permanent resident card, completing your PR process.

Why Is Japan Offering Permanent Residency (PR) In Japan To Indians?

Japan faces serious demographic challenges with an aging population and declining birth rates. 

The country desperately needs young, skilled workers to fill job gaps and support economic growth. Indians bring valuable expertise in technology, engineering, and healthcare sectors that Japan needs. 

Japan Offering Permanent Residency (PR) In Japan To Indians
Source: Work In Japan

This Permanent Residency (PR) in Japan policy strengthens bilateral relations and helps Japanese companies access global talent for international competitiveness.

PR vs Citizenship For Permanent Residency (PR) In Japan

Permanent Residency (PR) in Japan

  • Allows indefinite residence while keeping Indian citizenship. 
  • No voting rights or Japanese passport access. 
  • Can travel freely with Indian passport. 
  • Maintains cultural identity 
  • Indian government benefits without renouncing original nationality.

Japanese Citizenship

  • Grants full political rights including voting and Japanese passport. 
  • Requires renouncing Indian citizenship since Japan prohibits dual nationality. 
  • Provides complete integration but loses Indian identity and benefits. 
  • Offers visa-free travel to more countries worldwide.

Benefits Of Obtaining Permanent Residency (PR) In Japan

Permanent Residency (PR) in Japan provides indefinite stay rights without visa renewals and complete job mobility freedom. 

You gain access to social benefits, including healthcare, pension, and unemployment insurance, like Japanese citizens. Family members receive dependent status with work and study rights. 

Financial institutions offer better loan terms, and property ownership becomes easier, creating long-term stability for your future in Japan.

What’s New in Japan’s Residency System (2027)

Japan’s updated residency system, set to launch in 2027, is designed to attract more skilled professionals from countries like India. The new rules make it easier for experts in fields such as IT, healthcare, and engineering to get long-term residency.

Skilled workers with good experience, higher income, or Japanese language skills can now qualify for permanent residency much faster. This change also helps families settle with fewer visa renewals and a clearer path to stability.

For Indian professionals, it’s a great opportunity to build long-term careers in Japan as the country looks to fill major skill gaps in its workforce.

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Conclusion: Japan Is Offering Permanent Residency to Indians at an Affordable Cost

Japan is offering Permanent Residency (PR) to Indians for around ₹15,000, a golden opportunity for those dreaming of building a life in one of the world’s most advanced countries.

This move opens the door for skilled Indian workers to enjoy long-term stability, high-quality living, and career growth in Japan’s strong economy.

If you’ve ever dreamed of living in Japan, now is the right time to begin your PR journey,  gather your documents, understand the requirements, and take the first step toward a new chapter abroad.

FAQ

How much money do you need to get permanent residency in Japan?

The application fee is 8,000 yen (about Rs 15,000), plus costs for document translation and notarization.

Can Indians get Japanese citizenship?

Indians can get Japanese citizenship, but Japan doesn’t allow dual citizenship, so you must give up your Indian passport.

Is Japan good for Indians to settle?

Japan offers an excellent quality of life, job opportunities, safety, and modern infrastructure for Indian families.

Is Japan costly for Indians?

Japan has high living costs, but salaries are also higher, and permanent residents get access to social benefits.

Which job is best in Japan for Indians?

Technology, engineering, healthcare, and education are popular fields with good opportunities for Indians.

Do a lot of Japanese people speak English?

Basic English is common in cities, but learning Japanese greatly helps with daily life and career growth.

About the Author

Diego is a curious traveler and culture lover who writes guides to help others explore the world more confidently. With a focus on practical advice and thoughtful planning, she shares tips for travel bookings, discovering new destinations, and all the details that make travel meaningful.

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