We have recently received many inquiries regarding “guarantors” for Permanent Resident visa applications, so in this blog, I would like to give a brief explanation.
A guarantor is always necessary when applying for permanent residence, and no matter how many requirements for permanent residence you meet, you cannot apply for permanent residence without a guarantor. However, it is quite difficult for a foreigner to find a guarantor in Japan.
This is especially so because in Japan, the word “guarantor” has a strong image of a "guarantor (co-signer, etc.)" that often appears in debt-related matters. There are quite a few cases where our clients have asked their friends or other Japanese people to be their guarantors and have been turned down.
When applying for a Permanent Resident visa, the administrative scriveners in our company explain and make sure that you understand that the "guarantor" required under the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act is not a civil legal liability, as is often the case with debt-related matters, etc., as mentioned above.
Under the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act, a guarantor is a person who promises the Minister of Justice that they will provide the foreigner with financial guarantees (as necessary) and guidance on daily life, including compliance with laws and regulations. This promise is so that the foreigner can achieve their intended purpose of entry into Japan in a stable and continuous manner.
With regard to the nature of the Letter of Guarantee, there is no legal enforcement against the guarantor with regard to the above items promised to the Minister of Justice. Even if the guarantor does not fulfill the items above, the authorities will only instruct them to fulfill their promise. However, in such a case, the guarantor will lose social credibility, and may be considered unqualified as a guarantor in subsequent applications for entry or residence.
Please also visit our website dedicated to permanent residence applications.
