[Updated February 2026] Revisions and Tightening of Guidelines for Permanent Residence Applications

In February 2026, the Immigration Services Agency announced revisions to the guidelines regarding permanent residence.

We will explain the two key changes introduced in this revision.

1. Change in Residency Period Requirement (from “3 years” to “5 years”)

Previously, to apply for permanent residency, having a “3-year” residency period under the current status of residence was recognized as the “longest period of residence.” However, under these revisions, effective April 1, 2027 (Reiwa 9), a “5-year” residency period will generally be required.

Transitional Measures and Important Notes

To avoid confusion caused by this sudden change, the following transitional measures have been established.

Until March 31, 2027:

You may still apply if you have a “3-year” period of residence.

On or after April 1, 2027:

As a general rule, a “5-year” period will be required.

[If the Application Is Denied]

If you apply by March 31, 2027, and your application is denied during that review, and you reapply on or after April 1, a “5-year” period of stay will be required.

[If Your Current Period of Stay Expires During the Review Process]

If your current period of stay expires while your application is under review, and the renewed period is “3 years,” the new standard (5 years) will apply to your next application.

2. Explicit Stating of “Compliance with Landing Permit Criteria”

Another significant change in this revision of the guidelines is the explicit inclusion of the requirement that “the current status of residence complies with the landing permit criteria, etc.”

It represents the Immigration Bureau’s intention to strictly verify, even during permanent residency screening, whether the activities associated with the current visa are being conducted appropriately within the legal framework. If you have been engaging in activities outside the scope of your visa or have repeatedly committed violations, the risk of your permanent residency application being denied may increase.