Introduction

Applying for permanent residency is a major goal for many foreign residents seeking stability in Japan.

However, approval is not guaranteed, and there are a significant number of cases where applications are rejected.

In this article, we will look at the current status and trends of permanent residency applications based on actual statistics, and consider the importance of proper preparation before applying.

The Status of Permanent Residency Applications in Statistics

According to statistics published by the Immigration Services Agency, 116,919 applications for permanent residency were accepted in 2024.

However, not all applicants are able to proceed with their applications.

Some never have their application formally accepted for review, and others choose to withdraw partway through the process.

As of the latest publicly available monthly statistics in June 2025, out of 5,267 cases that had completed review, only 2,667 applications (about 50%) were approved, while the rest were denied.

In other words, nearly half of those who proceeded to the review stage did not receive approval.

These figures clearly show that obtaining permanent residency is by no means easy, highlighting the critical importance of proper preparation and strategic planning.

Why Permanent Residency Applications Are Strictly Reviewed

For many foreign residents, obtaining permanent residency represents the ultimate goal for securing a stable residence status.

From the perspective of the immigration authorities, foreign residents with permanent residency face no restrictions on their activities or period of stay.

Accordingly, the review of a permanent residency application functions as a final assessment of the applicant’s overall status in Japan.

The official guidelines make clear that this review must be conducted in a strict and appropriate manner.

The basic principle applied by immigration authorities is that permanent residency can be granted if a foreign resident has had a stable and problem-free residence status over a qualifying period and is expected to maintain such status in the future.

In other words, at the time of application, the applicant is expected to demonstrate that their residency has been stable during a qualifying period and that such stability is reasonably assured to continue.

However, there are also many cases in which applicants apply with enthusiasm for obtaining permanent residency without fully understanding the purpose and requirements of the system.

As a result, some applicants proceed optimistically, without considering the strictness of the review process or studying how to meet the requirements and provide appropriate evidence, leading to unsuccessful applications.

Take the First Step Toward Your Permanent Residency

As the statistics show, permanent residency applications are not automatically approved for everyone.

It is essential to thoroughly understand the application requirements and prepare documentation that clearly demonstrates a stable residency status.

Confirming the requirements early and making careful preparations is the first crucial step toward obtaining permanent residency.

At our office, we provide comprehensive support for individuals residing in Fukuoka and other prefectures across Kyushu and the Chugoku region, including Kumamoto, Saga, Nagasaki, Oita, Kagoshima, Miyazaki, Hiroshima, Okayama, Yamaguchi, Tottori, and Shimane.

If you are ready to take the first step toward applying for permanent residency, please feel free to contact us.

Please Note

Immigration-related information is subject to change, so please always refer to the latest updates provided by the Immigration Services Agency.