Japan is one of the most attractive countries to live and work in, but its migration system is quite complicated. Foreigners planning to move in 2025 need to follow a clear algorithm. Learn more about possible immigration paths, visa requirements, rules for legalization upon arrival, and employment opportunities

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Japan remains one of the most attractive countries for immigration due to its high standard of living, safety, stable economy and unique culture. According to statistics, the largest number of migrants arrive in Japan from Mexico, Nepal, Moldova and Uzbekistan. Obtaining permanent residence in Japan is an important step for those who want to live here for a long time, work without restrictions and feel like a full member of Japanese society.

In 2025, the rules for obtaining a permanent residence permit have not changed, but it is worth knowing the current requirements and features of submitting documents. Everything you need to know about moving to Japan for permanent residence is collected in this article.

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How to move to live in Japan in 2025?

The first and most important thing an immigrant needs to know: Japan is a country of bureaucrats. Collecting a large number of papers, certificates and certificates will be an integral part of each stage of moving.

The first stage is obtaining a visa. A visa to Japan can be tourist (it allows you to stay in the country for up to 90 days) and long-term (which is usually issued for a period of 1 year with the possibility of extension).

Foreigners who plan to move to Japan for permanent residence must obtain a long-term visa. Depending on the planned activity, there are different types of long-term Japanese visas.

Work visa to Japan

Japan offers wide opportunities for foreign specialists, providing different types of work visas. Foreigners can legally work in the country provided they meet certain requirements and have an official offer from a Japanese employer. The validity of a work visa can vary from 3 months to 5 years, depending on its type.

- Basic requirements for obtaining a work visa in Japan

1. Having an official job offer from a Japanese company;

2. A valid international passport (valid for at least 3 months after the planned date of entry);

3. No criminal record;

4. Letter of invitation from employer;

5. Sufficient financial resources to stay in Japan;

6. Compliance with medical requirements;

7. Professional skills and qualifications required for the selected position.

- Documents required for obtaining a Japanese work visa

1. Certificate of Eligibility (COE) - confirms the legality of employment and is issued by a Japanese company.

2. Completed visa application form (the form can be downloaded from the website of the relevant embassy).

3. Two color photos (4x3 cm, taken no earlier than 6 months before submission).

4. Copy of passport with expiration date.

5. Official job offer from employer.

6. Resume (CV) and diploma of education.

7. Return postage envelope with a stamp worth 392 yen.

- Cost of a Japanese visa

The cost depends on the type of visa: single-entry – approximately 3,000 yen, multiple-entry – 6,000 yen.

Japan has a digital nomad visa program, but not all countries are included in the list of approved countries, so it is worth checking the current lists.

Skilled Worker Visa (SSW)

Under the "Specialized Skills" program, Japan plans to attract about 500,000 foreign workers by 2026. Candidates must have appropriate professional training and basic knowledge of the Japanese language.

- Main areas covered by SSW

Foreigners involved in nursing, construction, shipbuilding, aviation, forestry, agriculture, fishing, industrial production, automotive repair, food industry and hotel business can obtain a skilled worker visa.

- Specialized Skills Visa Level 1 (SSV1)

This type of visa is suitable for work in the fields of shipbuilding, construction, agriculture, etc. The applicant must pass a Japanese language exam and a technical test. The period of stay is 1 year with the possibility of extension up to 5 years. Relatives are not allowed to accompany the employee under this visa.

- Specialized Skills Visa Level 2 (SSV2)

This visa is intended for employees who are already working in Japan under SSV1 and have improved their qualifications. The visa has no restrictions on the period of stay and can be extended repeatedly. It also gives the right to family reunification.

Visa Business Manager

The Business Manager Visa is a residence and work permit in Japan for business owners, directors and managers, as well as entrepreneurs who want to open their own company in the country. This status allows you to legally manage a business and live in Japan, sponsoring yourself as the head of the business. To obtain this permit, the applicant must have management experience or provide a business plan, an investment of at least 5 million yen, office space, and a registered company in Japan.

- Documents required for obtaining a Business Manager Visa

The package of documents includes a biography, confirmation of position and income, a business plan, copies of licenses and company registration, office documents, financial statements, passport and photo.

- Validity and cost of a Business Manager Visa

The visa is usually issued for one year with the possibility of extension. The cost of registration depends on the services of the agencies, but the minimum investment in the business is from 5 million yen (~34,000 USD).

Student visa to Japan

Persons who have entered Japanese educational institutions for programs lasting 90 days or more must apply for a student visa. The visa allows you to study legally and can be extended if necessary. An application for an extension must be submitted no later than 3 months before the expiration of the visa.

The first step is to obtain a Certificate of Eligibility (COE), which is issued by the Ministry of Justice of Japan. The COE is issued by the educational institution after the student enrolls.

- Documents for obtaining a student visa

1. Completed application form (2 copies, in English).

2. 35x45 mm photos.

3. International passport (original and copies of pages with marks).

4. Internal passport (original and copies of pages with marks).

5. Confirmation of enrollment from the educational institution.

6. Bank statement confirming the availability of funds for the year of residence;

7. COE certificate.

Family visa to Japan

A family visa is issued on the basis of family ties with Japanese citizens. Spouses and minor children are eligible. The visa can be issued for 6 months, 1, 3 or 5 years.

- Package of documents for obtaining a family visa to Japan

1. Completed visa application.

2. Evidence of family ties (passport of spouses, birth certificates of children).

3. Documents confirming the income and financial stability of the family;

4. Letter of guarantee from a Japanese citizen.

How to obtain a permanent residence permit in Japan in 2025?

Obtaining a permanent residence permit in Japan is a difficult but achievable process for those who plan to stay in the country for a long time.

Highly qualified specialists with unique skills have a higher chance of success. Knowledge of English will be an advantage, but proficiency in Japanese significantly increases the likelihood of a positive decision.

- Who can apply for permanent resident status in Japan?

To obtain permanent resident status, you must have legally lived in Japan for at least 10 years (in some cases, this period may be reduced, for example, for highly qualified specialists). In addition to the period of residence, a number of important requirements must be met:

1. Impeccable reputation

No criminal offenses, convictions, debts or serious administrative fines. Positive references from employers or educational institutions are welcome.

2. Financial stability

Official annual income of at least 3,000,000 yen (approximately 25,000 USD). Individuals with lower incomes are considered economically dependent, which may be a reason for refusal.

3. Loyalty and integration

Timely payment of taxes, no criminal record, compliance with the laws of the country, as well as stable mental health.

- Documents required for obtaining a permanent residence permit in Japan

To apply for a permanent residence permit, you will need a package of documents, which usually includes:

1. Completed application form.

2. Foreign and domestic passports.

3. Valid residence permit in Japan.

4. Medical certificate.

5. Proof of financial capacity (bank statement or employment contract).

6. Document confirming residence (rental agreement or purchase agreement).

7. 4 passport-sized color photos.

8. Additional documents (if necessary): marriage and birth certificates, proof of family ties with residents of Japan, diplomas, certificates of education or advanced training.

How long does it take to get PR in Japan?

You can visit the immigration service website to find more information about processing times and waiting times. The website states that the current processing time is 4 months.

What are the benefits of permanent residence in Japan?

Obtaining permanent resident status opens up a number of important advantages for foreigners who plan to stay in Japan for a long time:

- The right to live in Japan for life

Permanent residence allows you to live in the country without restrictions on the validity of your visa. You are no longer dependent on your employer or visa type. All you need to do is renew your resident card every 7 years and, if necessary, a re-entry permit (if you will be outside Japan for more than a year).

- Free access to the labor market

You can work in any field without restrictions: change employers, work as a freelancer or start your own business. You no longer need to coordinate your field of employment with the immigration service, as is the case with work visas.

- Financial stability and bank trust

Permanent residency makes it easier to access personal loans, including mortgages, consumer loans, and business financing. Most Japanese banks are more willing to provide financial services to permanent residents.

- The first step to citizenship

PMP is a serious step towards obtaining Japanese citizenship if you decide to link your future with the country. While citizenship has its own separate requirements, permanent residency is a mandatory prerequisite for application.

Overall, in Japanese society, where stability and reliability are highly valued, permanent residency status not only makes daily life easier, but also opens up more opportunities for development, career, and integration.

In 2025, Japan remains open to immigrants who have professional skills, a desire to integrate, and are willing to follow the rules. Gradual passage of visa stages — from a work or student visa to permanent residence — allows you to build a life in one of the safest and most developed countries in the world.

Planning to move to Japan? Our migration lawyers will help you choose the right visa, collect documents and avoid refusals. Order a consultation right now — and find out what your chances are.

Reminder! Japan is a promising country for expats to move to, which attracts with its high quality of life and career prospects. Given that in recent years the state has increasingly opened its doors to foreigners, local employers are increasingly hiring specialists from abroad. We have already told you about the features of the Japanese labor market and how a foreigner can obtain a work visa in the country.