For many foreigners, Japan is simply one option among many countries. In many cases, people decide to live in Japan because they happen to find a job here or meet a Japanese partner.

On the other hand, for those who have Japanese roots—such as having a Japanese parent or grandparent—Japan often feels much closer and more familiar. Aside from their country of nationality, Japan may be the country they feel most connected to.

In this article, we introduce the Status of Residence “Long-Term Resident” for second- and third-generation Japanese descendants, which is available to people with Japanese ancestry.

What Is the “Long-Term Resident” Status of Residence?

Position of the “Long-Term Resident(Teijusha)” Status

“Long-Term Resident” is one of the statuses of residence defined under Japan’s Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act.
It is granted when the Minister of Justice recognizes special circumstances and allows a foreign national to reside in Japan for a designated period.

This status is categorized as a status based on personal status or family relationship, rather than on employment. Examples include:

• Third-country resettled refugees
• Japanese nationals left behind in China
• Foreign nationals who are permitted to remain in Japan after divorce from or the death of a Japanese spouse

For second- and third-generation Japanese descendants, the status is granted on the basis that they have a connection to Japanese society as descendants of Japanese nationals.

A Key Feature of “Long-Term Resident”: No Work Restrictions

The “Long-Term Resident” status has characteristics similar to statuses based on personal status or family relationships. One major advantage is that there are no restrictions on employment.

Many other statuses of residence limit the type of work, industry, or activities a person can engage in. In contrast, Long-Term Residents may work freely in Japan, just like Japanese nationals. No additional permission for activities outside the status (such as a work permit) is required.

This means holders can work in occupations not covered by typical work-based statuses, such as childcare workers, hairdressers, or chefs—occupations that normally require strict experience requirements under the “Skilled Labor” status. (Of course, any professional licenses required for these jobs must still be obtained.)
Part-time work, including convenience store jobs, is also allowed without hourly limitations.

From an employer’s perspective, this status is also attractive because there is no need to worry about immigration-related work restrictions. Overall, the Long-Term Resident status offers a very broad range of employment and lifestyle options in Japan.

Eligibility for Long-Term Resident (Second- and Third-Generation Descendants; Nikkei Nisei, Sansei)

Who Can Apply for Long-Term Resident (Second- and Third-Generation Descendants; Nikkei Nisei, Sansei)?

When applying as a second- or third-generation Japanese descendant, it may be possible to apply not only for the applicant but also for their spouse and children (unmarried minors who are financially dependent on the applicant).

In other words, families may be able to move to Japan together. However, the family members’ applications are dependent on the main applicant. Spouses or children cannot apply independently without the descendant applicant.

Requirements and Documents for Second-Generation Descendants

To qualify as a second-generation Japanese descendant, at least one parent must be (or have been) a Japanese national.

Even if the applicant was born overseas and never acquired Japanese nationality, or if the parent later naturalized in another country, the requirement is still considered met as long as one parent was Japanese at some point.

Key documents include:

• Family register (koseki) of the Japanese parent
• Marriage certificate of the parents
• Applicant’s birth certificate

In addition, to demonstrate the ability to live stably in Japan, the following are usually required:

• Proof of income or financial resources (or evidence of a job offer or financial supporter in Japan)
• Information about housing in Japan
• A letter of guarantee

Requirements and Documents for Third-Generation Descendants

For third-generation descendants, at least one grandparent must be (or have been) a Japanese national.

As with second-generation cases, it does not matter if the grandparent has already lost Japanese nationality or has passed away, as long as their Japanese nationality can be proven.

However, applicants must clearly demonstrate the family relationship across three generations (grandparent → parent → applicant). This often requires obtaining older records, and immigration authorities also examine the applicant’s personal and social ties to Japan. As a result, applications for third-generation descendants tend to be more complex than those for second-generation descendants.

Typical documents include:

• Family register (koseki) of the Japanese grandparent
• Marriage certificates of the grandparent and parent
• Applicant’s birth certificate

As with second-generation cases, documents proving financial stability, housing, and a guarantor in Japan are also required.

Key Points for a Successful Application

Clearly Proving the Family Relationship

The most important aspect of the application is proving the family relationship with the Japanese parent or grandparent. If this cannot be objectively demonstrated through official documents, the application may be rejected at an early stage.
Careful coordination between Japanese family registers and foreign-issued birth and marriage certificates is essential.

Balancing Motivation and a Realistic Life Plan in Japan

Because Long-Term Residents face no work restrictions, many applicants do not yet have a fixed employer. As a result, immigration authorities carefully examine whether the applicant can maintain a stable life in Japan.

A sincere desire to live in Japan based on family history alone is usually not sufficient. Applicants should present realistic plans regarding housing, income, and support networks in Japan to demonstrate long-term stability.

Benefits of Consulting an Immigration Specialist

Smooth Collection of Japanese Documents

Applications for second- and third-generation descendants require many Japanese documents, such as family registers. These documents are unique to Japan and difficult to obtain without understanding the system, especially for applicants living overseas.
Certified immigration specialists (Gyoseishoshi) can collect documents on the applicant’s behalf and coordinate with family members in Japan.

Reviewing Both Legal Requirements and Approval Factors

Meeting the formal requirements is essential, but additional explanations and supporting documents are often needed to increase the likelihood of approval.
Professionals can advise on how much explanation is necessary and what documents best support a balanced and persuasive application.

Summary

The Long-Term Resident status for second- and third-generation Japanese descendants offers significant opportunities for people with Japanese roots.
However, applications require careful preparation of documents from both Japan and overseas, as well as a concrete plan for life in Japan.
If you have concerns or uncertainties, consulting an immigration professional at an early stage can help ensure a smoother and more successful application.