The Status of Residence ‘Long-Term Resident’ is a very attractive option for those wishing to live in Japan. Especially since there are no work restrictions, full-time employment is possible. It is also a system that allows Japanese descendants and those wishing to stay after divorce to continue living in Japan with peace of mind.
What is the Status of Residence ‘Long-Term Resident’?
The Status of Residence ‘Long-Term Resident’ is a status granted by the Minister of Justice considering special reasons. Those with this status have no work restrictions and can work full-time.
Main Eligible Persons
| Designated Activities | Individual Long-Term Residence |
|---|---|
| 3rd generation Japanese descendants (grandchildren of Japanese nationals) | Those who have divorced or been widowed from a Japanese national or permanent resident and are raising their biological child |
| Children born in Japan to those with the status of residence of Permanent Resident, Special Permanent Resident, or Spouse of Japanese National | Biological minor children of Japanese nationals or permanent residents |
| Spouse or child of a recognized refugee | Others recognized by the Minister of Justice for humanitarian reasons |
| Remaining Japanese in China, etc. |
About the Period of Stay and Employment
The period of stay is determined based on the examination results from 5 years, 3 years, 1 year, or 6 months. There are no restrictions on employment, and the residence card will state “No work restrictions”.
Do you have any of these concerns?
“I want to continue living in Japan after divorce” or “I want to work in Japan as a Japanese descendant” – the Status of Residence ‘Long-Term Resident’ accommodates various cases.
Main Required Documents
The required documents vary depending on the type of eligible person. Please contact us for details.
Application Process
Contact us
Prepare necessary documents
Create application documents
Apply to the immigration office
Receive notification of results
Estimated Duration and Fees
| Procedure | Government Fee | Our Office Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Certificate of Eligibility | Free | From 132,000 yen |
| Change/Extension | 5,500 yen | From 132,000 yen |
Three Reasons to Choose Our Office
- Support in 5 languages (Japanese, English, Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese) for peace of mind
- Free initial consultation for easy access
- Quick procedures by certified application agents
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the difference between a Long-Term Resident and a Permanent Resident?
- A Long-Term Resident is a status granted for special reasons, while a Permanent Resident is a status granted for permanent residence.
- Can a 3rd generation Japanese descendant obtain Long-Term Resident status?
- Yes, 3rd generation Japanese descendants are eligible for designated activities.
- Can I stay in Japan after divorce? (Individual Long-Term Residence)
- If you are raising your biological child, you may be granted individual long-term residence.
- When can I apply for permanent residence from Long-Term Resident status?
- After residing as a Long-Term Resident for 5 years, you can apply for permanent residence if you meet the conditions.
- What is the difference between a Long-Term Resident and a Spouse Visa? (In terms of work restrictions)
- A Long-Term Resident has no work restrictions, and a Spouse Visa generally has no work restrictions either, but the purpose of the status of residence differs.
Related Page Links
- About Permanent Residence Application
- About Spouse Status of Residence
- About Family Stay
- Application Process
- About Fees
Contact Us
Inui Gyoseishoshi Corporation (Room 201, Fuji Heights, 1-6-6 Tenjinbashi, Kita-ku, Osaka City)
TEL: 06-6949-8756, Weekdays 9:00-17:00 (Thursday 9:00-13:00), Closed on weekends and holidays
Disclaimer
The information on this page is as of May 2026. For the latest information, please contact us directly.