It’s taken us 10 years to get to this point, but now we are gathering all the appropriate documents in order to apply for permanent residence in Japan. This should come with a number of key benefits, mostly that businesses, banks and individuals treat you more like a typical Japanese person (you get access to the same types of loans, offers, investment opportunities, etc). Also there may be certain tax benefits in doing so as well. And not having to renew our visa every couple of years is a big deal as well.
People often ask us “Do you plan on staying in Japan forever then?” Our answer has always been the same: we have no plans of moving from Japan, at least not at this point. We’re planning on being in Japan for the long haul, in fact our kids have all grown up in the Japanese school system, which means we’ve always been planning for a long-term stay here. But as anyone knows, life can always send you a curve ball and change your plans.
Like so many other people who have moved to Japan, we moved because of work. Our work is with Paz International, a non-profit that specializes in starting Paz Churches all over the world. We came with a team and continue to work together with that team to this day and love it. Parts of our work (and Paz Church) often show up in our videos, but that’s because it’s such a big part of our life and passion. It’s simply a great place to be, and if you’re ever in the Tokyo area, you have to come visit us, no matter your religious background, affiliation or nationality!
Big Family 🔥 Big Passion
But we’re also passionate for healthy, loving families. I grew up in one, and so did my wife. Our dream has been to build our own, and it comes with many challenges along the way. But there’s nothing like the dynamics of a big, thriving family. When I tell people we have four kids, the typical response (here in Japan) is “Oh how difficult!” But to me it’s quite the opposite. A large family is a source of joy, stability and purpose. It gives you a foundation for interacting with the world. It teaches you to be responsible and how to get along with other people. It gives you a safe place to call home, a place that should be a little piece of heaven on earth.
So as we look towards the future, we don’t know what all it will bring. But we do know we’re looking forward to what’s in store around the corner, because we’re only getting started! We want to see more and more families experience the same kind of loving dynamics we do, because we believe society will be transformed through it. How has your family impacted you in a positive way?
4 replies on “Applying for Permanent Residence in Japan”
Good morning Nate,
It has been a long time since I have sent you all a message. I have enjoyed watching your channel from the beginning. You have showed me places that we never were able to see while we were stationed there with the Navy a few years back. My husband has now since retired from the military. Anywho, the reason for my message was to suggest that you write a book about your family’s life or experiences in Japan’s and beyond. Your writing in the blogs are quite clear and informative. You all have a sweet souls and a heart for each and the others who you encounter. Blessings to you all.
Respectfully,
Jodi Peer
Wow Jodi- would you believe I started writing a book?! It’s certainly centered around healthy family life, so this is a really fun comment to get! Thanks for leaving a comment!
Thank you for your thoughts, Nate! I have always appreciated your (and Ruth’s!) perspective on family. I messaged you a few months back asking your thoughts on schooling and if you would homeschool if you lived in the States. We are now homeschooling here in Southern CA and enjoying it immensely. Our three kids attend a two-day-per-week school program at our church as of now but that may change in the future.
I completely agree with the benefits of a larger family. Even though ours is not the largest, I love how each child is different and they balance each other out. They learn from each other’s strengths and weaknesses. And they are best friends!
I pray for your dreams to continue to come true for your family and for God to use each of your children in mighty ways. Please continue to share your thoughts when you have the time! We will most definitely be bringing our kiddos to visit someday!
Kelly and Jesse Sundstrom
Thanks so much! And thanks for leaving a comment here!