Long-Term Resident
Japan
Last updated: December 25, 2025
6 months (renewable)
$768
1-3 months
High
About this Visa
The Long-Term Resident status lets you live in Japan long-term based on family ties or Japanese ancestry. It's for people marrying or having kids in Japan, raising a Japanese child, or being part Japanese. The government decides on a case-by-case basis. You can work any job you want, no restrictions. You can live with your spouse and children. You're treated almost the same as permanent residents. Unlike work visas that only let you do one type of job, this visa lets you do anything. You're not stuck with one employer.
Key Benefits
- Work any job without restrictions
- Bring spouse and children
- Possible path to permanent residency after 5+ years
- Travel freely with re-entry permit
- Join health insurance covering 70% of medical bills
- Change jobs freely or start a business
- Same social benefits as permanent residents
Eligibility & Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
- You divorced from or were married to a Japanese person, OR raising a Japanese child, OR bringing your child from another relationship
- Must support yourself (usually around $20,000+ USD annually)
- Must pay taxes and health insurance on time
- No serious criminal record in Japan or your home country
- No immigration violations or overstays
- Genuine family relationship (checked carefully)
- No fraud - marriage or family story must be real
Financial Requirement
No fixed amount required. You must show you can support yourself and any family members. Most people have about $20,000–$27,500 USD in annual income, but the government looks at your whole situation.
Documents
- PassportCopy and original to show
- Family paperworkMarriage/birth/divorce certificates, family records (translated if needed)
- Proof of family tiesPhotos, messages, proof you lived together
- Money documentsPay slips (last 3 months), bank statements, tax records (last 3 years)
- Work proofEmployment contract or business registration
- Where you liveRental contract or proof you own a home
- If you have kidsSchool enrollment, proof you support them
- Criminal record checkFrom your home country
Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Visa requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Please verify all information with official government sources and consult a qualified immigration attorney before making decisions.