What is the residence status for a child who is born overseas to a Permanent Resident?

When parents who hold Permanent Resident status in Japan give birth to a child outside the country, the child will fall under the “Long-Term Resident ” residence status when starting life in Japan. This status is granted based on family ties (legal personal relationship), ensuring stable and legally recognized residence after entering Japan.

Main Required Documents for the Application for Certificate of Eligibility (COE)

  • Birth Certificate (Official Certificate + Japanese Translation)
  • Passport or Travel Document
  • Residence Cards and Passports of Both Parents (Permanent Residents)
  • Certificate of Birth Registration Acceptance & Documents Proving Parent–Child Relationship
  • Financial / Living Stability Documents (e.g., Income Certificate, Tax Certificate, Resident Record, etc.)
  • Applicant’s (Child’s) Photograph – if required

※ Additional documents may be requested depending on the Immigration Office receiving the application.

Estimated Processing Time

Procedural DetailsEstimated Processing PeriodNotes
Application for Certificate of EligibilityApproximately 4 to 6 months※ During peak periods and in cases requiring additional inquiry, the processing time may exceed 6 months.
In the event that additional documents are requested2 to 8 weeksThere is a strong tendency for significant delays in cases of deficiencies or insufficient documentation.

Utilization of Online Application by Administrative Scrivener

By engaging a certified Administrative , applicants may utilize the Immigration Services Agency’s Online System, enabling a fully online application process.

Advantages for the Applicant

  • No need to visit the Immigration Office; the procedure can proceed even while abroad.
  • Comprehensive support including translation, document review, and data format adjustment.
  • Full representation in responding to immigration inquiries and requests for additional documents.

Benefits from the User’s Perspective

✅ Stable Residency in Japan
With the “Long-Term Resident ” status, the child’s long-term stay in Japan is legally secured, making future planning for education, healthcare, and housing much more predictable and manageable.

✅ Flexible Work Eligibility and Easier Path to Life Stability
The status allows relatively flexible employment conditions in the future, including after graduation and adulthood, giving the family greater freedom and stability in long-term life planning.

✅ Straightforward Procedures Linked to the Parent’s Residency Status
Because eligibility is directly based on the parent’s permanent residency status, the system remains clear and avoids unnecessary complexity, allowing the application process to proceed more smoothly.

Benefits of Consulting an Administrative Scrivener

At Taro Fujita Administrative Scrivener Office, we provide:

✅Complete support in applying for and renewing Long-Term Resident visas

✅Online consultations available from anywhere in Japan

A free first session with a customized required-document checklist provided immediately