Japan has recently made it much easier and more affordable for Indians wishing to settle permanently in the country. The application fee for permanent residency (PR) is now only about ¥8,000, which is roughly Rs 5,000. This is great news for skilled workers and long-term residents who want to live, work, or study in Japan without restrictions.
Why Japan is Opening Doors Wider
Japan faces pressing issues like a declining population and a rapidly ageing workforce. To tackle these challenges, the government is encouraging global talent and skilled professionals to move to Japan by simplifying the path to permanent residency and lowering the application costs. This move aims to attract more qualified people, including Indians, to contribute to the country’s economy and society.
Easy Eligibility and Fast-Track Options
Ordinarily, to get permanent residency in Japan, applicants must have lived in Japan for ten continuous years, including at least five years under a work or family visa. However, Japan also offers quicker routes for those who meet specific criteria.
Japan’s points-based system rewards highly skilled professionals with an accelerated track to permanent residency. Collecting at least 70 points allows applicants to apply after just three years of continuous residence, while scoring 80 points or more can reduce this to a single year.
Other routes include family connections:
-
Spouses of Japanese citizens or permanent residents can apply if married for three years and living in Japan for at least one year.
-
Children of Japanese nationals or permanent residents can also apply after one year of residence.