Recommended Residence Status

Long-Term Resident

For foreign nationals staying long-term for special reasons such as being of Japanese descent or refugees

Moderate
MEDIUM

Documents are complex — professional support is recommended.

About This Residence Status

A residence status that permits long-term stay for humanitarian reasons or special circumstances (third-generation Japanese descendants, refugee recognition, etc.). One of the 'status-based residence statuses' with no restrictions on work or activities, commonly used by Japanese Brazilians and other Japanese descendants. Granted at the discretion of the Minister of Justice.

Key Requirements

  • For Japanese descendants, documents proving blood relationship with a Japanese national
  • Statement explaining the circumstances and reason for staying

Online Application Available

  • Submit documents online — no need to visit the immigration bureau in person
  • Track your application status online anytime
  • An administrative scrivener (authorized representative) can handle everything — from document preparation to submission — on your behalf

The online system is provided by Japan's Immigration Services Agency. By working with an administrative scrivener, you can have the entire process handled without taking time off work or standing in line at the immigration bureau.

Free Consultation with an Immigration Specialist

Residence status applications involve complex procedures including document preparation and communication with immigration authorities. Our specialized immigration consultants offer free consultations.

Your information will be used for consultation requests to immigration specialists. It will not be shared with third parties.