Japan’s Long-Term Resident Visa (Teijūsha Visa): A Complete Guide

The Long-Term Resident Visa, known in Japanese as 定住者（Teijūsha）, is one of Japan’s more flexible residence statuses. It is designed for foreign nationals who have special personal or family-related ties to Japan and allows a relatively free lifestyle compared to many other visa types.

1. What Is the Long-Term Resident Visa?

The Long-Term Resident Visa is granted to individuals whom the Japanese government recognizes as having strong reasons to live in Japan on a long-term basis. Unlike work visas, this status is not tied to a specific job or industry, giving holders significant freedom in employment and daily life.

2. Who Is Eligible?

Eligibility is determined on a case-by-case basis, but common categories include:

  • Descendants of Japanese nationals (e.g., second- or third-generation Japanese emigrants, often called Nikkei)

  • Spouses or children of Japanese nationals or permanent residents in certain circumstances
    (for example, after divorce or the death of the Japanese spouse)

  • Children raised in Japan under special humanitarian considerations

  • Refugees or individuals under special protection

  • Other cases recognized by the Minister of Justice for humanitarian or social reasons

Because eligibility is discretionary, immigration authorities carefully review personal history, family background, and ties to Japan.

3. Length of Stay

The Long-Term Resident Visa is typically granted for one of the following periods:

  • 6 months

  • 1 year

  • 3 years

  • 5 years

Renewals are possible as long as the holder continues to meet the conditions and maintains stable residence in Japan.

4. Work and Activities

One of the biggest advantages of the Long-Term Resident Visa is that it allows unrestricted employment:

  • You may work in any industry or occupation

  • Full-time, part-time, and self-employed work are all permitted

  • No additional work permission is required

This makes the visa especially attractive compared to standard work visas, which limit activities to specific fields.

5. Daily Life and Benefits

Holders of the Long-Term Resident Visa can:

  • Enroll in Japan’s national health insurance

  • Open bank accounts and sign housing contracts more easily

  • Live in Japan with fewer administrative restrictions

  • Change jobs freely without notifying immigration (in most cases)

These benefits make it easier to build a stable and independent life in Japan.

6. Pathway to Permanent Residency

Time spent in Japan under a Long-Term Resident Visa can count toward permanent residency (PR). Many holders become eligible for PR after living in Japan for 5 years, provided they demonstrate:

  • Stable income or financial support

  • Good conduct and tax compliance

  • Long-term commitment to living in Japan

7. Important Considerations

  • Approval is not automatic and depends heavily on individual circumstances

  • Documentation requirements can be extensive

  • Immigration officers have broad discretion in decision-making

For this reason, professional consultation or careful preparation is strongly recommended.

８. FAQ  of Japan Long-Term Resident Visa (Teijūsha Visa)

 

Q1: What is the Long-Term Resident (Teijūsha) Visa?

The Long-Term Resident Visa is a Japanese residence status granted to foreign nationals who have special personal, family, or humanitarian ties to Japan. It allows flexible living and working conditions and is not limited to a specific job or industry.

Q2: Who can apply for a Long-Term Resident Visa?

Applicants are assessed on a case-by-case basis. Common examples include descendants of Japanese nationals, former spouses or children of Japanese citizens or permanent residents under certain conditions, refugees, and individuals approved for humanitarian reasons by the Minister of Justice.

Q3: Can I work with a Long-Term Resident Visa?

Yes. Holders of a Long-Term Resident Visa may work in any occupation or industry without restrictions. No additional work permit is required.

Q4: Is there a limit on working hours?

No. There are no restrictions on working hours. You may work full-time, part-time, or be self-employed.

Q5: How long is the visa valid?

The visa is usually granted for 6 months, 1 year, 3 years, or 5 years, depending on your situation. It can be renewed as long as you continue to meet the requirements.

Q6: Can I renew my Long-Term Resident Visa?

Yes. Renewal is possible if you maintain stable residence, follow Japanese laws, pay taxes properly, and continue to meet the conditions under which the visa was granted.

Q7: Can family members be included?

In many cases, yes. Depending on your status and circumstances, certain family members may be able to live in Japan with you, though separate applications may be required.

Q8: Can I change jobs freely?

Yes. Since the visa is not tied to employment type, you can change jobs freely without needing immigration permission, as long as your overall lifestyle remains stable.

Q9: Can I apply for Permanent Residency (PR)?

Yes. Time spent in Japan under a Long-Term Resident Visa generally counts toward eligibility for Permanent Residency, provided you meet the required residency period(5years), income stability, and good conduct standards.

Q10: What documents are required for application?

Required documents vary by case but often include identification documents, proof of family relationships, financial records, a written explanation of your circumstances, and supporting evidence showing strong ties to Japan.

Q11: Is Japanese language ability required?

There is no formal Japanese language requirement. However, basic Japanese ability can be helpful during the application process and daily life in Japan.

Q12: Is approval guaranteed?

No. Approval is discretionary and depends on individual circumstances. Immigration authorities carefully review each application.

Q13: Can this visa be revoked?

Yes. If you violate Japanese laws, provide false information, or fail to maintain the conditions of stay, your visa may be revoked or not renewed.

Q14: Should I consult a professional?

While not mandatory, consulting an immigration lawyer or certified administrative scrivener (gyōsei shoshi) is often recommended, especially for complex cases.

Q15: Why is the Long-Term Resident Visa considered attractive?

Because it offers work freedom, long-term stability, and a pathway to Permanent Residency, making it one of the most flexible and practical residence statuses in Japan.

９. Conclusion

Japan’s Long-Term Resident Visa offers exceptional flexibility and stability for those with strong personal or humanitarian ties to the country. With freedom to work, renewability, and a clear path toward permanent residency, it is one of the most valuable residence statuses available in Japan.

Our office has been handling applications for long-term resident visas for many years, so if you are having trouble applying for a long-term resident visa, please feel free to contact us.