Thinking about settling down in Japan for the long term? Whether you're tired of renewing your visa or want more flexibility in your career, acquiring Permanent Residency (PR) is one of the smartest moves for foreign engineers working in Japan.
This guide breaks down: ✅ Why it's worth getting PR ✅ How to qualify (including the fast-track point system) ✅ Step-by-step application process ✅ Key FAQs (freelance work? family members? losing your nationality?)
Based on official government rules from Japan's Immigration Services Agency, updated for 2025.
✅ Why Consider Permanent Residency in Japan?
Here's what makes PR a game-changer:
🔁 No more visa renewals (or job change paperwork) 🏠 Easier to get housing loans or mortgages from Japanese banks 💼 Freedom to freelance, run a business, or switch employers anytime 👨👩👧 More stability for family (PR holders can sponsor relatives more easily) 🚀 Makes future naturalization easier if you ever decide to become a Japanese citizen
Two Main Paths to PR for Engineers
1. Standard Route (10-Year Residency)
To apply via the traditional path, you need:
- 10+ years of continuous residence in Japan
- At least 5 years under a valid work visa (e.g., Engineer/Specialist in Humanities)
- Clean legal record and full tax/social insurance compliance
🕐 Takes time—but stable workers with family in Japan often use this route.
2. Highly Skilled Professional (HSP) Route (1–3 Years)
If you qualify as a "Highly Skilled Foreign Professional," you can fast-track PR in just 1 or 3 years:
- 70+ Points → Apply after 3 years
- 80+ Points → Apply after just 1 year
Points are calculated based on a scoring system managed by the Immigration Bureau.
🎯 Point Categories Include:
- Annual Salary (e.g., ¥8M+ = 40 points)
- Age (under 30 = 15–20 points)
- Education (Master's or PhD = up to 20 points)
- Japanese Proficiency (JLPT N1/N2 or Japanese university degree)
- Work Experience (7+ years = more points)
- Certifications (IPA, ITPEC, etc.)
📄 You must prove you met the threshold (70/80) at the start of your stay, not just at the time of application.
More details here: Official HSP Point Table (MOJ)
📝 Application Process for Permanent Residency
If you'd prefer expert help, you can hire a licensed immigration professional to handle your PR application. This can be a great option if you're unfamiliar with Japanese paperwork or want to avoid delays. English-speaking professionals are available, and fees typically range from ¥100,000 to ¥200,000+, depending on the complexity of your case and the level of support provided.
1. Prepare Documents
- Tax certificates (last 3–5 years)
- Residence certificate (住民票)
- Proof of employment/income
- Statement of Reason (for some applicants)
2. Apply at Regional Immigration Bureau
- Submit documents + application form
3. Wait for Review (Usually 4–6 months)
- Some applications take longer; highly skilled fast-tracks are often quicker
4. Receive PR Decision
- You'll get a notice by mail; if approved, update your Residence Card at immigration
🤔 Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Do I lose my nationality when I get PR?
No. Permanent Residency is not the same as naturalization. You retain your original citizenship.
Q. Can I switch jobs or go freelance?
Yes! PR lets you work in any field, freelance, or even start your own business—no restrictions.
Q. Can I bring my spouse or children under PR?
Yes. If they've been in Japan for some time and meet basic conditions, they can apply for PR too.
Q. Can I still apply if I'm not on a "Highly Skilled" visa?
Yes, as long as you meet the points threshold from the beginning of your stay, you can still use the HSP route (even if your visa says "Engineer/Specialist").
Final Tips
🧾 Keep your taxes and insurance paid on time 📈 Track your point score if you're aiming for fast-track PR 🗂️ Prepare translations if documents aren't in Japanese ✅ Apply with help from your employer (they often provide HR support)
📌 This article is based on official documentation from the Japan Immigration Bureau (ISA) and interviews with applicants in 2025. Always confirm the latest rules with a legal advisor or your nearest immigration office.