Permanent Residency & Naturalization
in Japan — Building Your Future Here
We support applications for permanent residency (eijuu) and naturalization (kika) in Japan. Whether you are just checking your eligibility or ready to apply, please feel free to contact us. Consultations are available in English, Spanish, and Japanese.
Permanent Residency vs. Naturalization
Which is right for you?
🏠 Permanent Residency
- You keep your home country’s nationality
- No expiration on your residency status
- No restrictions on work or activities
- No need to renew your visa status
- Residence card must be renewed every 7 years
- Residence card (zairyu card) still required
🇯🇵 Naturalization
- You obtain Japanese nationality
- Same rights as Japanese citizens (including voting)
- No longer need a residence card
- Japanese passport issued
- Home country nationality is generally lost
- Generally stricter requirements than permanent residency
ℹ︎ The right choice depends on your situation. Please contact us to discuss your specific circumstances — nationality, future plans, and whether you meet the requirements.
Key Requirements
Main eligibility conditions
Permanent Residency
- Generally 10+ years of continuous residence in Japan
- At least 5 years on a work or residential visa
- Good conduct record
- Sufficient assets or skills to support yourself
- Up-to-date tax and social insurance payments
- Currently hold the longest available visa period
Naturalization
- 5+ years of continuous residence in Japan
- Age 20 or older with legal capacity
- Good conduct record
- Ability to support yourself financially
- Willingness to renounce previous nationality
- No intent to overthrow the Japanese constitution or government
⚠︎ The above is a general overview. Requirements vary based on individual circumstances. Please contact us for a personalized assessment.
Common Concerns
Are you facing these situations?
I’m not sure if I meet the requirements for permanent residency.
I don’t know whether permanent residency or naturalization is better for me.
There are too many required documents. I don’t know where to start.
I have unpaid taxes and I’m worried about whether I can apply.
Will I lose my home country’s citizenship if I naturalize?
My application was denied. I want to reapply.
Application Process
From consultation to approval
- 1
Contact us (free initial consultation)
Reach out by phone, email, or online. We can start with a basic eligibility check. English and Spanish are welcome.
- 2
Eligibility assessment
We review your residency history, employment, income, and family situation to advise on the best path forward.
- 3
Document preparation support
We provide a document checklist and assist with obtaining and preparing all required materials.
- 4
Application submission
We submit to the Immigration Bureau (permanent residency) or Legal Affairs Bureau (naturalization) on your behalf.
- 5
Follow-up and post-approval guidance
We handle any additional requests during review and advise on next steps after approval.
Why Choose Us
A firm you can trust
English & Spanish consultations available
We offer consultations in English, Spanish, and Japanese. Our office is experienced in supporting clients from Latin America and Spanish-speaking countries.
Thorough document support
Permanent residency and naturalization require many documents. We guide you through each step carefully to avoid errors and delays.
Online consultations / Nationwide
Video call consultations available. We serve clients across Japan, no matter where you are located.
Long-term support from work visa stage
We support clients from initial work visa applications through permanent residency and naturalization — all at one office.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between permanent residency and naturalization?
With permanent residency, you keep your home country’s nationality but can live in Japan indefinitely. With naturalization, you become a Japanese citizen but generally lose your home country’s nationality. The right choice depends on your plans and circumstances.
Does permanent residency mean I never need to do any paperwork again?
Your residency status has no expiration, so you do not need to renew your visa. However, your residence card (zairyu card) must be renewed every 7 years. Failure to renew can result in your residency status becoming invalid, so please take care of this on time.
Will I lose my home country’s citizenship if I naturalize?
Japan does not recognize dual citizenship. After naturalization, you are generally required to renounce your previous nationality. The specific process depends on your home country’s laws. Please contact us for details.
I have unpaid taxes. Can I still apply?
Tax and social insurance payment history is an important factor in the review. Please contact us so we can assess your situation and suggest the best approach.
How long does the application process take?
Permanent residency typically takes 4 months to 1 year from application to approval. Naturalization generally takes 6 months to 1 year. Timelines vary depending on individual circumstances.
Supervised by
Kanae Tsuruta
鶴田 加奈江
- ▸Certified Gyoseishoshi Lawyer (Administrative Scrivener)
- ▸Authorized Immigration Application Agent
- ▸Member of Tokyo Gyoseishoshi Lawyers Association — Taito Branch
- ▸Copyright Consultant, Japan Federation of Gyoseishoshi Lawyer Associations
- ▸Representative, Amistad Global Administrative Lawyer Office