What Are the Basic Documents Required to Apply for Permanent Residency in Shiga Prefecture?

For foreign nationals who have been living in Japan for a long time, obtaining permanent residency in Shiga Prefecture is an important step towards securing stability in life, work, and family. However, many are unsure about which documents are required, whether they meet the necessary criteria, and what specific points to watch out for in the Shiga review process.

This article aims to clearly explain the required documents and share real-life cases from Shiga Prefecture, from the perspective of an immigration lawyer (gyoseishoshi lawyer).

Basic Documents Required for Permanent Residency Application in Shiga Prefecture

While the required documents for permanent residency are generally uniform across Japan, some regional tendencies or additional requirements exist. Here, we highlight specific considerations based on cases from Shiga.

Case A: Transition from Long-term Resident to Permanent Resident (Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture)

• Enrolment in social insurance boosted credibility and was key to approval.

• Carefully organised social insurance certificates and payment records were submitted without errors.

• Review period took approximately three months.

  
  

Basic Document List:

• Application form for permanent residency (prescribed format)

• Copies of residence card and passport

• Certificate of residence (including relationship, address, household composition)

• Income and tax certificates (from local and national tax offices)

• Employment certificate and salary statement

• Health insurance and pension enrolment certificates

• Statement of reasons for applying (future plans and reasons for seeking permanent residency)

• Letter of guarantee (if required)

  
  

Important Points When Applying for Permanent Residency in Shiga

Frequently Asked Questions and Advice from an Immigration Lawyer (Gyoseishoshi Lawyer)

Q1: Can I still be approved if I'm not enrolled in social insurance?

A: Approval becomes significantly more difficult. You must explain the reason for not being enrolled and supplement your case with other strong evidence such as proper tax payments.

Q2: What is the expected review period?

A: In practice, some cases in Shiga were approved in a few months (3–9 months), but nowadays it is not uncommon for the process to take 8–10 months or even over a year. It is essential to prepare with ample time.

Q3: Can I coordinate the application with changes in family or spousal visa status?

A: Yes. For example, cases have successfully progressed in steps: from "long-term resident" to "spouse of permanent resident," and finally to "permanent resident."

Benefits of Applying for Permanent Residency Throughout Shiga Prefecture

Points That Also Apply to Surrounding Areas

• Permanent residency eliminates the need to renew visas, allowing for more stable life planning.

• In regional cities like Shiga, administrative responses tend to be more flexible, and document collection is more efficient.

• Proximity to the Kyoto and Osaka metropolitan areas offers convenience for commuting.

  
  

Summary and Conclusion (For Residents of Shiga)

In Shiga, key factors for obtaining permanent residency include social insurance enrolment, tax payment records, and a stable history of residence. By understanding local tendencies in the screening process and preparing accurate, well-organised documentation, applicants can improve their chances of approval.

If you're aiming for permanent residency, it is wise to objectively review your current status and consult with a qualified immigration lawyer to increase your chances of success.

Why Consult an Immigration Lawyer (Gyoseishoshi lawyer) and How to Contact Us

If you are considering applying for permanent residency in Shiga Prefecture, feel free to contact Emilio Administrative Law Office.

We specialise in assisting foreign nationals with visa and permanent residency applications, offering comprehensive support from preparing application forms and attachments to advising on the statement of reasons.

In-Person Service Areas Include: Takashima City, Otsu City, Kusatsu City, Hikone City, Nagahama City, Omihachiman City, and surrounding regions. We also offer full online support across Japan, so no matter where you are located, you can consult with us remotely.

Please take advantage of our free initial consultation and take the first step towards a successful application with peace of mind.