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Residence statuses such as “permanent resident”, “special permanent resident” and “naturalization” are very important options for foreigners who want to live in Japan for a long time. Each of these residence statuses has different conditions, rights and obligations. In this article, we will explain the differences and characteristics of these statuses and clearly explain who each is suitable for.
What is a permanent resident?
“Permanent resident” is a residence status that allows you to stay in Japan for a long period of time and has no expiration date. By obtaining permanent residence, your life in Japan will be stable and you will have the following benefits.
- No expiration date for stay
With permanent residence, you need to renew your residence card every seven years, but you will not need to extend your period of stay. Therefore, you will be able to stay in Japan for a long time. - Freedom of occupation and activity
With permanent residence, you will no longer be restricted from taking up a specific occupation, and you will have more freedom to choose your occupation. You can also freely conduct business activities, so you can participate in various economic activities. - Improved social credibility
Permanent residence increases your credibility in Japan, making it easier to pass the screening for mortgages and credit cards. This makes it easier to build a stable foundation for life.
What is a special permanent resident?
The “special permanent resident” is a special qualification established against a historical background for people from the Korean Peninsula and Taiwan who have been living in Japan since before the war and their descendants.
- Legal background
The special permanent resident is a qualification recognized as a special measure after the war based on the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act (Immigration Control Special Cases Act). This allows the recipients to legally protect their lives in Japan. - No need to renew qualification
Unlike permanent residents, special permanent resident certificates do not have a residence limit set and do not need to be renewed. This simplifies the procedures for daily life. - Relaxation of forced deportation
Special permanent residents are less likely to be subject to forced deportation compared to other resident status holders, even if they commit a serious crime. This consideration is given to the fact that they have been settling in Japan for many years.
What is naturalization?
“Naturalization” is the procedure to acquire Japanese nationality. Naturalization allows you to renounce your foreign nationality and acquire the rights and obligations of a Japanese person.
- Acquisition of rights as a Japanese person
When you naturalize, you can have the right to vote as a Japanese person and obtain a Japanese passport. This allows you to move and live more freely in and outside of Japan. - Change of nationality
Since naturalization involves renouncing your foreign nationality and acquiring Japanese nationality, you cannot maintain your original nationality since dual nationality is not recognized in Japan. This allows you to fully apply your rights and obligations as a Japanese person. - Application agency
Applications for naturalization are made at the Legal Affairs Bureau and usually require the permission of the Minister of Justice. This can make the application process more complicated than permanent residency.
Which qualification should you choose?
It is best to choose between permanent residence and naturalization depending on your long-term life purpose. If you want to continue living in Japan without changing your nationality, “permanent residence” is suitable, and if you need Japanese nationality and voting rights, you can choose “naturalization”. In addition, special permanent residence is a qualification limited to certain targets because it is based on a specific historical background.
Permanent resident, special permanent resident, and naturalization are residence statuses with different conditions and rights, so it is important to choose one that suits your lifestyle in Japan and your future aspirations. Consider carefully which status is best for you and proceed with the appropriate application.
Summary
Permanent resident, special permanent resident, and naturalization are all residence statuses that make life in Japan more free and stable. Consider which status is best for you based on your lifestyle and future aspirations, and apply appropriately.
