Can I as an American move to Japan permanently, and if so what steps would I have to take to do so?

Question:

I would absolutely love to live there, I plan on learning the language first before I actually do make any move, which includes reading and writing the kanji and kana's. But is it possible to move there permanently? I know I can get visas and such to stay there for a few years but I am talking about staying there for the rest of my life.

Answer:

You usually need working or student visa to live in Japan.

For working visa, you have to get a job offer from a Japanese company. But you can't look for a job in Japan without a visa. So you need it before you enter Japan.

For student visa, you have to be admitted to a Japanese college. You need to pay tuition and living cost for 4 years. It could be about $100,000.

If you want to become a Japanese citizen, you have to keep living in Japan for more than 5 years without a pause. Then, you will be eligible to apply for citizenship. But you need more like stable income, sufficient reason, Japanese language skill and so on if you want your application to be accepted.

You can apply for Permanent Residence of Japan under the same condition. And this is relatively easier than citizenship.