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Long-Term Resident Visa
JapanJapan•Asia
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Long-Term Resident Visa

Residency Pathway PR PathwayThis visa can lead to permanent residency, the right to live and work here indefinitely without renewing your visa. Dependents Allowed

At a Glance

Processing Time

1–3 months

Estimated Cost

JPY ¥11,500

Stay Duration

5 years

Renewable

Renewal

Renewable

Family

Dependents allowed

PR Pathway

Yes

Sponsor

No job offer needed

Work

Remote not required

Apply Now Official Information
Japan flag

Living in Japan

Cost of Living
32% cheaper than United States
Avg Salary¥3,240,000
Quality of Life
181/200
Full Country Guide

Overview

Visa for individuals with special connections to Japan, including children of Japanese nationals and refugees.

The Long-Term Resident Visa (Teijuusha) is granted to foreign nationals with special personal, family, or humanitarian ties to Japan not covered by standard categories. Recipients include Nikkei descendants (2nd–4th generation), former spouses or children of Japanese nationals, and humanitarian cases.

Holders may work in any industry without restriction, including self-employment. Stay periods range from 6 months to 5 years, all renewable. The fee is ¥6,000 in person (¥5,500 online). Status is assessed case-by-case; a streamlined permanent residency path exists, often requiring just 5 years of residence.

This visa is ideal for Nikkei descendants, former family members of Japanese nationals, or humanitarian cases seeking long-term residence with a path to permanent residency.

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Cost Breakdown

In-person application fee (upon approval)JPY ¥6,000
Online application fee (upon approval)JPY ¥5,500
TotalJPY ¥11,500

Stay & Extensions

Initial grant5 years

Conversion Paths

Visas you can typically switch to from this status.

Permanent Resident (永住者)
Japan flagJapan

Permanent Resident (永住者)

ValidityIndefinite
Processing4-6 months
View Visa Details

Requirements

PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS

Must fall into specific categories: divorced/bereaved spouse of a Japanese national, parent of a Japanese child, foreign-born stepchild of a Japanese national, or 2nd-4th generation Japanese descendant (Nikkei).

Must demonstrate a stable life and ability to support oneself financially.

Must have a clean record of tax and social insurance payments.

Must have a clear purpose for staying in Japan.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Valid passport

Resident's Card

Tax certificates

Residence records

Criminal record check

Employment records

Financial documents

Family documents

Advantages & Considerations

Key Benefits

  • Allows for long-term residency based on personal circumstances rather than strict employment or investment requirements.
  • Provides a pathway to Permanent Residency, often with shorter residence requirements (e.g., 5 years) compared to standard work visas.
  • Offers flexibility in employment activities compared to standard work visas.

Worth Knowing

  • Highly dependent on individual circumstances; documentation requirements vary significantly by category.
  • Immigration review is strict regarding the legitimacy of the relationship or status claimed.
  • Requires proof of tax and social insurance compliance if already residing in Japan.

Application Process

1

Determine qualification

Ensure you fall under one of the designated categories (e.g., Nikkei, divorced/bereaved spouse of Japanese national, etc.)

2

Prepare documentation

Gather required documents such as family registers, tax certificates, and proof of financial stability

3

Submit application

Apply for a Certificate of qualification (COE) if overseas, or apply for a Change of Status of Residence if already in Japan

4

Wait for processing

The Immigration Services Agency reviews the application (typically takes 1 to 3 months)

5

Receive COE or approval

If overseas, use the issued COE to apply for a visa at a Japanese embassy/consulate; if in Japan, receive the new Residence Card

6

Pay fee

Pay the 6,000 JPY fee (5,500 JPY if online) upon approval of status change or extension

Application Forms

Go to application portal
Application for Certificate of Eligibility—
Application for Permission to Change Status of Residence—
Application for Permission to Extend Period of Stay—

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