When Can a Permanent Residency Be Revoked in Japan? Common Scenarios and How to Avoid Them

Introduction: Permanent Residency Isn’t Always Forever

Many people who receive a permanent residency (PR) visa in Japan breathe a sigh of relief, thinking, “Now I can stay in Japan forever with peace of mind.”

Indeed, the PR status eliminates the need for visa renewals, removes employment restrictions, and greatly increases lifestyle flexibility. However, a permanent residency visa is not immune from cancellation.

In reality, the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act includes provisions under which your PR status can be revoked in certain situations.

In this article, we explain specific cases where permanent residency can be canceled, along with the legal basis and how to avoid problems — from the perspective of an administrative scrivener.

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Chapter 1: Legal Basis and Overview of PR Revocation

PR revocation is governed by Article 22-4 of the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act.

This article allows the Minister of Justice to revoke PR if:

• The person obtained permission through false or fraudulent means
• Their conduct as a permanent resident is recognized as severely inappropriate

✔ Main Categories of Revocation:

• False applications or fraudulent acquisition (e.g., fake marriages, misreported income)
• Inappropriate behavior as a PR (e.g., serious crimes, antisocial acts)
• Lack of residence in Japan (e.g., de facto emigration)

💡 Note: PR revocation is a separate process from deportation (forced removal), but the two can sometimes happen together depending on the case.

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Chapter 2: Common Scenarios Leading to PR Revocation

2-1. False Applications / Fraudulent Acquisition

This is the most typical and serious reason for revocation:

• Submitting inflated income documents (e.g., edited tax slips)
• Pretending to be enrolled in pension plans
• Falsely reporting cohabitation with a spouse when actually divorced or separated

In such cases, the original PR permission may be deemed invalid and revoked accordingly.

2-2. Criminal Records or Serious Violations

Even with PR, certain acts can destroy your social credibility:

• Convictions for violent crimes, theft, or fraud
• Domestic violence or child neglect leading to administrative action
• Operating illegal businesses (e.g., unlicensed sex-related services)

Even suspended sentences or repeated petty crimes (shoplifting, DUI, etc.) can seriously harm your status.

2-3. Long-Term Absence or No Actual Residence

While PR holders don’t have a visa expiration date, residing in Japan is still a requirement.

Examples:

• Living abroad for extended periods while maintaining only a Japanese address
• Visiting Japan a few times per year while living mainly overseas
• No observable residence activity even after return to Japan

Such cases may lead to a finding of “no actual residency,” and cancellation may follow.

2-4. Divorce or Separation After PR Based on Spouse Visa

Especially for those who transitioned from a “Spouse of Japanese National” visa to PR:

• Immediate divorce or separation after obtaining PR
• Lack of real marital relationship at the time of PR approval
• Lack of a clear life foundation in Japan post-divorce

These situations may lead authorities to conclude that PR should not have been granted in the first place.

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Chapter 3: High-Risk Profiles for Revocation

You may be at higher risk of revocation if:

• You divorced or separated from your spouse shortly after PR approval
• Your income significantly dropped, making your residency unclear
• You’ve been out of Japan for long periods
• Your original PR application included ambiguous or questionable details

Such cases may prompt Immigration to issue a summons or conduct interviews.

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Chapter 4: PR Revocation Procedure and Your Rights

PR cancellation is carried out through formal administrative procedures. You won’t suddenly receive a revocation notice without warning.

Main Steps:

1. Notification or summons from Immigration
2. Opportunity to explain your side (interview, written statement)
3. Submission of supporting documents (e.g., proof of residence, tax payment)
4. Decision by the Minister of Justice
5. Potential transition to another visa (e.g., Designated Activities) or issuance of a deportation order

You have the right to present your views. With support from an administrative scrivener or attorney, you can respond appropriately.

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Chapter 5: How to Prevent PR Cancellation

✔ Be Honest in Your PR Application

• Avoid exaggerations or false claims
• Consult a professional if uncertain about your situation

✔ Maintain a Real and Stable Life in Japan After PR

• Avoid long absences abroad
• Keep clear income and tax records
• Report divorce, job changes, or address changes to Immigration promptly

✔ Seek Advice Early

Don’t wait for a problem to arise. If you feel something may be an issue, talk to a qualified professional early on.

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Conclusion: PR Is Not the Goal, but the Beginning of a Long-Term Relationship of Trust

Permanent residency is a powerful visa status that provides long-term stability. But it is based on ongoing trust and transparency.

Don’t let your guard down thinking “I have PR now, so I’m safe.” Even minor missteps or lifestyle inconsistencies can put your residency at risk.

PR is just the starting line. Maintaining trust is what truly matters.

At Ishinagi Administrative Scrivener Office, we support not only PR applications but also life after approval — including risk prevention and ongoing status management.

Please feel free to contact us if you have any concerns or questions.

Ishinagi Administrative Scrivener Office

“I want to obtain permanent residency quickly and securely.” “I’m worried about preparing all the documents.”
If this sounds like you, please feel free to contact our office in Osaka (Yodogawa-ku). We support clients from all over Japan, providing the most effective assistance based on our extensive experience with immigration procedures.

If you want to secure your permanent residency smoothly and confidently, contact our office today.

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