2026-02-06

For Philippine nationals wishing to live stably and long-term in Japan, the “Permanent Visa (Permanent Residence)” holds significant meaning. This article explains the basics of the permanent visa, how Philippine nationals can obtain it, and its specific benefits.

What is a Permanent Visa?

A Permanent Visa is a residence status that allows you to live in Japan indefinitely without restrictions on your period of stay. Commonly referred to as “permanent residency,” its key feature is the absence of renewal procedures. Furthermore, with no employment restrictions, holders can work in any occupation or employment arrangement.
For Filipino nationals living in Japan, the typical path involves first obtaining a status of residence such as “Engineer, Economist, or Specialist in International Affairs,” “Spouse or Child of Japanese National,” or “Long-term Resident,” before aiming for a permanent visa. Obtaining a permanent visa eliminates concerns about changing or renewing residency status, allowing for a stable foundation for life in Japan.
However, a permanent visa is not a residency status that anyone can easily obtain. In principle, several strict requirements must be met, including continuous residence in Japan for a specified period, stable income, and proper fulfillment of tax obligations.

How Filipino Nationals Can Obtain a Permanent Visa

For Filipino nationals seeking a permanent visa, your current status and length of residence are crucial. Generally, “residing in Japan for over 10 years” is the standard requirement. However, exceptions exist where this “10-year” requirement is significantly shortened for spouses of Japanese nationals or permanent residents.
Stable income is also a key review point. For salaried employees, continuous employment and annual income are verified. For the self-employed, the contents of their tax returns are examined. Furthermore, strict checks are conducted on whether local taxes, income taxes, pension contributions, health insurance premiums, etc., have been paid appropriately.
For Filipino nationals, family circumstances and ties to their home country are also considered. Insufficient documentation or explanations can lead to application rejection. Therefore, it is recommended to proceed with permanent visa applications while consulting with a specialist.

Benefits of a Permanent Visa

The greatest benefit of obtaining a permanent visa is the elimination of the need to renew your period of stay. This frees you from the anxiety of forgetting to renew or facing rejection, making it easier to plan for a long-term life in Japan.
Furthermore, the removal of work restrictions makes changing jobs or starting your own business easier, and allows you to freely hold multiple jobs. Consequently, your income options expand, helping to stabilize your family’s livelihood.

Additionally, a significant benefit is that it becomes easier to pass credit checks when applying for mortgages or various other loans. For those who wish to purchase a home in Japan in the future, the permanent visa is highly advantageous in terms of creditworthiness. Considering children’s education and future life foundations, the value of a permanent visa is exceptionally high.

Summary

For Filipino nationals, obtaining a permanent visa represents a major step toward building a stable life in Japan. While the requirements are strict, the benefits are substantial. It is crucial to gather information early and proceed with systematic preparation.