The “Long-Term Resident” status of residence is a visa category that permits foreign nationals to stay in Japan for an extended period of time.It allows unrestricted employment, meaning holders may engage in any type of work without limitations.This status is granted to foreign nationals who, for specific reasons, need to reside in Japan on a stable and continuous basis.
Main Features of the Long-Term Resident Visa
✅ No restrictions on employment → You are free to work in any occupation or industry.
✅ Renewable period of stay → Periods of stay such as 1 year, 3 years, or 5 years are granted, and renewal is possible if the requirements are met.
✅ Pathway to permanent residency → By residing in Japan long term and meeting certain conditions, it is possible to change to Permanent Resident status.
Main Eligibility Requirements for the Long-Term Resident Visa
The Long-Term Resident visa is mainly granted in the following cases:
1️⃣ Descendants of Japanese nationals (second- or third-generation) and their spouses or children
Foreign nationals of Japanese descent—such as those from Brazil or Peru—who have Japanese ancestry are eligible.
2️⃣ Former holders of the “Spouse or Child of Japanese National” visa
Those who were previously married to a Japanese national may be eligible after divorce or bereavement, provided they have an established and stable life in Japan.
3️⃣ Minor biological children of Japanese nationals or permanent residents
This includes minor children of Japanese parents, as well as biological children of permanent residents born overseas.
4️⃣ Cases specially approved by the Minister of Justice for specific reasons
Permission may be granted in cases requiring humanitarian consideration (such as refugee-related cases) or where other special circumstances exist.
Differences Between the Long-Term Resident Visa and Other Statuses of Residence
| Status of Residence | Employment Restrictions | Period of Stay | Pathway to Permanent Residency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Long-Term Resident | 🔵 None (Free to work without restrictions) | 1 year / 3 years / 5 years | Eligible to apply |
| Engineer / Specialist in Humanities / International Services | 🔴 Yes (Limited to designated occupations only) | 1 year / 3 years / 5 years | Eligible to apply |
| Spouse of Japanese National | 🔵 None (Free to work without restrictions) | 6 months / 1 year / 3 years / 5 years | Eligible to apply |
| Permanent Resident | 🔵None (Free to work without restrictions) | No time limit | No renewal required after approval |
For those considering obtaining a status of residence in Japan!
✅ For visa application support, leave it to the Administrative Scrivener Taro Fujita Office!
✅ We handle a wide range of cases, including Long-Term Resident visas, work visas, and Dependent visas.
✅ Free consultations available! We support you for a smooth and reliable visa application process.