Japan PR Examination Period, Speed up?
Expedite Your
Permanent Residency Application
in Japan (2025 Guide)
Applying for Permanent Residency (PR) in Japan can be a complex and time-consuming process. If you’re seeking strategies to speed up your application, this guide will help you understand key factors influencing the process.
Processing Time for Permanent Residency in Japan
The Tokyo Immigration Bureau typically takes 10 to 15 months to process PR applications, with some cases approved in as little as five months. Although the official Immigration Bureau website lists a four-month processing time, stricter screening measures due to high application volumes have led to longer wait periods.
Factors Affecting Processing Time
Several factors contribute to the variation in PR application timelines:
- Self-submitted applications without professional guidance
- Incomplete or incorrect documentation
- Insufficient proof of eligibility
Additionally, the processing speed may vary based on the immigration office handling your case and the timing of your application.
Strategies for Faster PR Approval
Past cases have shown that the following approaches can significantly improve your chances of obtaining PR more quickly:
- Submit a Well-Written Statement of Reasons
- A professionally written Statement of Reasons (理由書) in Japanese strengthens your case.
- Ensure Flawless Documentation
- Make sure all documents are accurate, consistent, and well-organized.
- Provide Supporting Evidence
- Additional documents demonstrating your qualifications can help expedite your approval.
How Immigration Authorities Categorize Applications
PR applications are classified into four categories:
- Type A: Approved without delay
- Type B: Requires thorough screening
- Type C: Not eligible for approval
- Type D: Requires additional documentation before reassessment
Applications meeting all requirements with no red flags are generally classified as Type A, which allows for faster processing.
Checking Your PR Application Status
The Immigration Bureau does not provide real-time updates on application status. Applicants will only receive a general status update such as “under review,” and repeated inquiries do not speed up the process.
Responding to Additional Document Requests
If immigration requires further clarification, they will issue a “SHIRYO TEISYUTSU TSUCHI SHO” (資料提出通知書), a formal request for additional documents. This can occur soon after submission or later in the process.
Tips to Expedite Your PR Application
- Submit a Complete and Accurate Application
- Ensure that all required documents, forms, and statements are correctly prepared.
- Seek Professional Guidance
- Working with an experienced immigration lawyer or administrative scrivener can prevent common mistakes and delays.
About Our Immigration Consultant
Masakazu Murai
With 18 years of investment banking experience at Mitsubishi UFJ Morgan Stanley, Masakazu Murai has advised over 500 entrepreneurs and senior executives. As a certified immigration consultant, he specializes in financial and visa advisory services.
- Licensed Immigration Lawyer (Gyoseishoshi)
- Certified Financial Planner (CFP)
- Master of Business Administration in Entrepreneurship