Q.2 Applying for Both at Once

Q.2 Can I apply for naturalization and a Permanent Resident Visa at the same time?

A.2 Technically, yes, it is institutionally possible to apply for “Permanent Residency (Immigration Services Agency)” and “Naturalization (Legal Affairs Bureau)” simultaneously.

Why It’s “Possible”

Permanent Residency (Eijū): Handled by the Immigration Services Agency (Nyūkan). The requirements (length of stay, conduct, livelihood, etc.) are based on their guidelines.
Naturalization (Kika): Handled by the Legal Affairs Bureau (Hōmukyoku) under the Ministry of Justice. The requirements (residence period, conduct, financial stability, renunciation of foreign nationality, etc.) follow the Legal Affairs Bureau’s procedures.
Institutional Separation: Since they are managed by separate government agencies, it is institutionally possible to submit both applications at the same time. However, be aware that the criteria and required documents overlap and differ significantly.

Key Differences

Feature	Permanent Residency (Immigration Services Agency)	Naturalization (Legal Affairs Bureau)
Status Gained	Permanent status as a Foreign National (Must renew Residence Card)	Japanese Citizenship (Acquire Japanese nationality)
Main Criteria	Length of stay (generally 10 years, with exceptions), Tax/Social Insurance payment, Good conduct, Independent livelihood.	Continuous residency (generally 5 years, with exceptions), Japanese language ability, Actual lifestyle, Renunciation of other nationality (mandatory).
Processing Time	Generally 6 months to 1 year (can be longer depending on location/backlog).	Generally 8 months to 1.5 years (often takes longer due to thorough review).

Caveats (Issues with Simultaneous Application)

Increased Workload: Both applications require extensive documentation (tax certificates, employment proof, crime clearance certificates, etc.). The burden of preparation is doubled.
Outcome Sequence Matters:
- If Naturalization (Japanese Citizenship) is granted first, your status of residence (including any pending Permanent Residency) becomes void. You must surrender your Residence Card and file notifications with the local government (e.g., within 14 days for the Residence Card, within 1 month for the Nationality Acquisition notification). The Permanent Residency application becomes moot.
- If Permanent Residency is granted first, you still need to fulfill all naturalization requirements separately to become a Japanese citizen later.
Shared Risks: Any negative factor related to “conduct or credibility” (e.g., tax delinquency, criminal record, false statements) will negatively affect the review processes of both the Immigration Services Agency and the Legal Affairs Bureau.
Cost/Time Inefficiency: Collecting supporting documents (especially those from your home country) is costly and time-consuming. Doing both simultaneously often proves redundant.

Which One to Prioritize?

Your Goal	Recommended Action	Reason
Acquire Japanese Citizenship	Prioritize Naturalization.	Although the review is meticulous and time-consuming, it is the direct path to citizenship.
Achieve Stable Residency Quickly	Prioritize Permanent Residency.	It may be granted relatively faster and provides stability, relief from work restrictions, and a strong sense of security sooner.

Simultaneous application is an option only if you fully understand the risks and double workload involved. It is generally advisable to pursue one application first.

Common Required Documents (for both, but vary by case)

Passport copies
Residence Card (front/back photo) and Residence Certificate (for all household members)
Tax Certificates and Payment Proof (for the most recent few years)
Income Proof/Withholding Tax Statement and Employment Certificate
Health Insurance and Pension Enrollment History
Crime Clearance Certificate (if required, issued by home country)
Home Country Family Register or Birth Certificate (often mandatory for Naturalization)
Resume, Career History, and Naturalization Motivation Statement (for Naturalization) / Summary of Residence History (for Permanent Residency) (Note: The exact format and additional documents vary by individual case. You must confirm with the relevant Immigration Services Agency or Legal Affairs Bureau.)

Final Advice

Clarify Your Goal: Determine your primary objective first: “I want citizenship,” “I want more freedom in employment,” or “I want stable residency for my family.” Your goal dictates the optimal sequence.
Use Consultation Services: Utilize pre-consultation services offered by the Legal Affairs Bureau (for Naturalization) or the Immigration Services Agency (for Permanent Residency) to receive tailored advice based on your specific circumstances (residence history, family structure).
Consult a Professional: A specialist (Certified Administrative Procedures Legal Specialist or Attorney) can efficiently assist with document preparation and strategic planning (e.g., which application to submit first). They can provide practical support and guidance on additional documentation required during the process.

Please also read the following pages.

Q.1 Can I maintain dual citizenship with my home country after naturalizing?

Q.2 Can I apply for naturalization and a Permanent Resident Visa at the same time?

Q.3 How thoroughly is the payment status of pension contributions examined?

Q.4 How thoroughly is the payment status of health insurance contributions examined?