Japan Updates Permanent Residency Income Requirements for Foreigners

On October 1, 2026, Japan's Immigration Services Agency revised its permanent residency guidelines to include a household income standard for foreign nationals. Applicants must demonstrate that their total household income meets or exceeds the average annual income of Japanese households of the same size.

Income from family members on non-work visas cannot be counted, but those financially supported by the applicant, including relatives abroad, are included in household size calculations. For households with five or more members, an additional living cost allowance is added.

The agency will also assess projected future pension payments based on work history, requiring applicants to have sufficient financial assets if pension amounts fall short. The revised guidelines apply to applications submitted on or after April 1, 2027, and also affect applications under review submitted within six months before the revision date.

Permanent residency allows holders unrestricted work and stay duration, with a standard residency requirement of 10 years, including at least 5 years on a work or residence visa.