Guarantor for Permanent Residence
How to Request your PR Guarantor
When applying for Permanent Residency (PR) in Japan, you must have a “guarantor,” who must be either a Japanese citizen or a permanent resident with a stable income and a history of tax compliance.
Many Japanese nationals misunderstand this requirement, confusing it with a financial loan guarantor. If this misunderstanding is not cleared up, they may refuse to act as your guarantor.
Who Can Be a Guarantor?
Your PR guarantor must be a Japanese national or a permanent resident. Typically, employers, colleagues, friends, or spouses act as guarantors.
The guarantor must have a stable income in Japan and a good tax compliance record. If the guarantor is self-employed, their financial records and tax filings must be properly maintained to qualify.
Responsibilities of a Guarantor
The guarantor submits a “Letter of Guarantee” to the Minister of Justice, confirming that they support the applicant’s living expenses, return travel costs, and compliance with Japanese law.
However, under immigration law, a guarantor has only a moral responsibility, not a legal one. They are not financially liable for the applicant’s expenses and have no supervisory responsibilities.
Required Documents for Guarantors
- Letter of Guarantee
- Copy of Driver’s License or Residence Card
How to Ask Someone to Be Your Guarantor
Since many Japanese people misunderstand the role of a PR guarantor, it’s essential to explain the distinction from a financial loan guarantor. A well-prepared explanation improves the chances of acceptance.
If Your Guarantor Refuses
Many potential guarantors refuse simply because they lack a clear understanding of their role. Having an immigration lawyer explain the process can reassure them.
Our legal team at Continental can directly explain the PR Guarantor requirements to your chosen guarantor via phone or online consultation.
GET A CONSULTATION
Professional
Masakazu Murai
With 18 years of investment banking experience at Mitsubishi UFJ Morgan Stanley, Masakazu Murai has advised over 500 executives and entrepreneurs. As a certified Gyoseishoshi Immigration Lawyer, he specializes in financial consulting and visa-related services for foreign professionals.
- Gyoseishoshi Immigration Lawyer
- CMA (Certified Financial Analyst – Japan)
- CFP (Certified Financial Planner)
- MBA in Entrepreneurship