2026-05-15

For foreign nationals who have lived in Japan for a long time and are considering settling down permanently, obtaining a “Permanent Resident Visa (Permanent Resident)” is one option. Postcards play a crucial role in notifying applicants of the screening results. This article provides a detailed overview of the notification system, the criteria for approval or denial, and important points to note during the screening period.

How Permanent Residence Application Notifications Are Sent via “Postcard” and the Process After Receipt

Once the review of your permanent residence visa application is complete, the Immigration Services Agency (ISA) will mail a “postcard” to the applicant’s home address. This postcard is not merely a notification; it is a crucial guide for receiving the results.

If the amount of the “revenue stamp” is clearly stated on the postcard, it effectively signifies “approval.” On the other hand, if the notification arrives in a sealed envelope, or if the postcard states something along the lines of “Please appear in person to provide an explanation,” this typically indicates a denial or a request for additional documentation.

Once you receive the notification, you must visit the Immigration Bureau within the specified timeframe to complete the procedures for receiving your new Residence Card. In this case, you will need to bring the postcard, your passport, your current Residence Card, and revenue stamps in the specified amount.

Requirements for a “Permanent Resident Visa” to Keep in Mind

During the Screening Period and Reasons for Delayed Notifications
The screening period for a Permanent Resident Visa generally takes about 4 to 10 months, and in some cases, it can take over a year. During this period, it is important not to change your circumstances from what they were at the time of application.

The Immigration Bureau strictly reviews factors such as “good conduct” and “possession of sufficient assets or skills to maintain an independent livelihood.” If you commit repeated traffic violations or fail to pay taxes or pension contributions during this period, the risk of your application being denied increases significantly before you even receive the notification card.

Additionally, you must be cautious if your annual income decreases due to a job change, or if you leave Japan for a long-term business trip abroad, as these situations could affect the review process. For Japanese employers, keeping track of the foreign national’s compliance with public obligations and providing support to prevent issues during the review process is the surest path to a smooth approval.

Benefits of “Permanent Residents” That Japanese Companies Should Know When Hiring Foreign Nationals

For Japanese companies, hiring foreign nationals with permanent resident visas offers several benefits. The greatest benefit is that, since there are no restrictions on their activities in Japan, they can be assigned to job roles not permitted under general work visas.

Furthermore, since renewal procedures are not required, this reduces the administrative burden on the company and mitigates the risk of “illegal employment due to visa expiration.” For the foreign national themselves, obtaining permanent residency enhances their social credibility and stabilizes their foundation for life in Japan, making it easier to qualify for a mortgage, for example.

As a result, this leads to the long-term retention of talented foreign personnel, and they can be expected to play a key role as core members of the company. From the time of application until the “postcard” arrives, ensuring a stable work environment for the individual is the first step toward realizing a society of mutual coexistence.

Summary

The outcome of a permanent residency visa application is notified via a “postcard,” and its contents serve as a crucial signal determining whether the application is approved or denied. Since the review process takes a long time, compliance with laws and the fulfillment of public obligations during this period are essential. For those considering naturalization, those who wish to work in Japan long-term, and the Japanese companies that support them, obtaining permanent residency is a significant factor in deepening mutual trust. By preparing with the right knowledge, you can expect your application to be approved.