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Long-Term Resident Visa for Raising a Japanese Child|Legal Custody, Care Responsibilities & Application Guide

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Long-Term Resident Visa for Raising a Japanese Child
Japan Visa Application Service >  Long-Term Resident VisaLong-Term Resident Visa for Raising a Japanese Child
Table of Contents
  1. What Is the “Long-Term Resident (Raising a Japanese Child)” Visa?
    1. Legal Position of the Long-Term Resident Visa
    2. Difference from the “Spouse or Child of Japanese National” Visa
    3. Visa Based on Parental Custody and Actual Childcare
  2. Common Situations That Qualify
    1. Raising a Japanese Child After Divorce or Separation
    2. Unmarried Parents Raising a Japanese Child
    3. Cases Where Custody or Childcare Rights Are Recognized
    4. Confirming the Child’s Japanese Nationality
  3. Main Requirements for Obtaining the Long-Term Resident Visa
  4. Required Documents & Important Notes
  5. Application Procedures by Case Type
    1. Changing from Spouse Visa to Long-Term Resident After Divorce
    2. When One Unmarried Parent Is Raising the Child
    3. After Giving Birth in Japan: Adjusting Status for Parent and Child
    4. When a Parent Abroad Moves to Japan to Raise Their Japanese Child
  6. Approval Cases Handled by ACROSEED Immigration Lawyer's Office
  7. After Obtaining the Visa: Renewals, Stable Residence & Path to PR
  8. FAQ: Long-Term Resident Visa for Raising a Japanese Child
    1. Can I apply even if I do not live with my child?
    2. Is paying child support enough for eligibility?
    3. Can I keep this visa after my child becomes an adult?
    4. Is it possible to apply without legal custody?
    5. How many years until I can apply for Permanent Residency?
  9. Client Testimonials (Long-Term Resident Visa)
  10. Our Visa Support Services
    1. Service Overview
    2. Included Support Details
    3. Benefits of Choosing ACROSEED Immigration Lawyer's Office
    4. Service Fees
  11. Popular Pages Related to Long-Term Resident Visa

1. What Is the “Long-Term Resident Visa for Raising a Japanese Child”?

Long-Term Resident Visa for Raising a Japanese Child

1. Legal Position of the Long-Term Resident Visa

The “Long-Term Resident” status is a residence status granted by the Immigration Services Agency of Japan based on a comprehensive assessment of individual circumstances—including family relationships, living conditions, and the welfare of the child. It generally allows unrestricted work activities, and the period of stay is 1, 3, or 5 years, with the possibility of long-term residence through renewal.

In this guide, the “Long-Term Resident Visa for Raising a Japanese Child” refers to cases where the applicant is actively caring for and supporting a child with Japanese nationality. Permission is examined with strong emphasis on the child’s welfare and stability of life.

  • Key evaluation factors: Japanese nationality of the child / proof of parent–child relationship (family register, birth certificate) / actual childcare, cohabitation, visitation, support / financial stability
  • Work permission: Generally unrestricted (except prohibited activities by law)
  • Renewal: Comprehensive evaluation of continued income, tax payment, social insurance, and ongoing childcare involvement

2. Difference from the “Spouse or Child of Japanese National” Visa

These two residence statuses are often confused, but the basis of eligibility is different. The “Spouse or Child of Japanese National” visa is rooted directly in marriage or being the biological parent of a Japanese child. In contrast, the Long-Term Resident visa covered here is examined based on the applicant’s “actual childcare of a Japanese child.”

Item Spouse or Child of Japanese National Long-Term Resident (Raising a Japanese Child)
Basis of eligibility Marriage to a Japanese national / Biological parent of a Japanese child Actual childcare and support of a Japanese child
Main screening focus Actual marital life, cohabitation, financial stability, good conduct Child’s best interests, childcare record, income, good conduct
When marriage ends Continuation is difficult (status change may be required) Not dependent on marriage; can be maintained if childcare continues
Work restrictions None None
Key approval factors Genuineness of marriage, cohabitation, stable living Actual childcare, visitation, support + financial stability and child’s well-being

3. A Residence Status Based on Custody and Actual Childcare

For this category, the key point is not simply the presence or absence of legal custody, but the “actual circumstances of raising the child.” By carefully documenting the following, the immigration authority evaluates whether the residence is appropriate from the perspective of the child’s welfare.

  • Proof of parent–child relationship: Family register, birth certificate, acknowledgment documents
  • Record of childcare and cohabitation: Resident record, proof of shared residence, school or nursery communication, medical checkups, vaccination accompaniment
  • Support / childcare expenses: Remittance records, household expense sharing, payment of living, education, and medical costs
  • Visitation continuity: Photos, messages, visitation coordination records (for separated parents)
  • Financial ability: Employment contract, payslips, tax certificates, social insurance enrollment

Even in cases where the applicant does not live with the child, demonstrating regular visitation, payment of child support, and involvement in school or medical matters can establish the presence of actual childcare. Conversely, if the evidence of actual involvement is weak, additional documentation may be required.

In summary, the “Long-Term Resident Visa for Raising a Japanese Child” is a residence status that prioritizes the child’s stability and best interests rather than marital status. Clearly presenting the applicant’s real childcare involvement and stable living foundation greatly influences approval.

2. Typical Situations Covered by the Long-Term Resident Visa for Raising a Japanese Child

1. After Divorce or Separation, Still Raising a Japanese Child

Even if the marriage has ended (divorce or death of spouse) or the parents are separated, the case can still fall under the Long-Term Resident Visa for raising a Japanese child if there is a real situation where the applicant is actually caring for and supporting a Japanese child. In screening, the child’s welfare and stability of life are given more weight than the mere existence of a formal marriage.

  • Key evidence: Actual cohabitation / continued visitation and contact / payment of child support / involvement in school and medical matters
  • Main document examples: Resident record showing the same household / visitation records and photos / remittance statements / school communication records, maternity health record book, medical visit records
  • Note: In cases of separate residence, the regularity and specificity of visitation are important. Occasional or one-off contact is weak; materials that show planning and continuity are helpful.

2. One Unmarried Parent Raising a Japanese Child

When one unmarried parent is raising a Japanese child, the case can also fall under the Long-Term Resident Visa for raising a Japanese child, as long as both the parent–child relationship is legally proven and the actual circumstances of childcare and financial support are clear. It is important to carefully check the consistency of acknowledgment of paternity, birth registration, and the entry on the family register.

  • Key evidence: Whether paternity has been acknowledged (especially important for the father) / record of cohabitation and childcare / continuity of financial support
  • Main document examples: Family register (showing the child’s Japanese nationality and parent–child relationship) / certificate of acknowledgment / resident record with family relationship / records of child support payments
  • Note: If acknowledgment procedures have not been completed, the legal basis for the parent–child relationship will be weak. Early completion is strongly recommended.

3. When Custody or Childcare Rights Have Been Granted

If custody, childcare rights, visitation, and child support have been determined through a family court judgment, mediation, or divorce agreement, this will generally be positively evaluated in the screening for the Long-Term Resident Visa for raising a Japanese child. However, what matters is not only the formal rights, but also whether there is actual performance in line with these agreements.

  • Key evidence: Submission of judgments, mediation records, or notarial deeds / proof of performance (visitation and payment of support)
  • Main document examples: Certified copy of judgment or decision with certificate of finality / copy of notarial deed / visitation schedule and records / remittance history
  • Note: Even if there is a formal agreement, if there is little record of performance, an explanation is required. Prepare materials that demonstrate the continuity of performance.

4. Confirming That the Child Has Japanese Nationality (Family Register)

A prerequisite for this category of Long-Term Resident Visa is confirmation that the child has Japanese nationality (is a Japanese national). The most important point is the consistency of the entry on the family register, including registration, notifications, and whether nationality retention procedures have been completed.

  • How to confirm: Family register (koseki) issued by a Japanese municipality that includes the child. For children born overseas, confirm whether a birth registration was filed and accepted at a Japanese embassy or consulate.
  • Supplementary documents: Multilingual birth certificate plus Japanese translation / certificate of acceptance from the diplomatic mission / record of nationality retention notification, etc.
  • Note: If there are errors or inconsistencies in the child’s name, date of birth, or the parents’ relationship on the family register, screening may be delayed. Submit correction notifications and written explanations as needed to align the records.

[Free Check of Long-Term Resident Visa Approval Possibility]
Tell us about your current residence status, and we will guide you to the shortest route to obtain a Long-Term Resident Visa for raising a Japanese child.
Support available in English and Chinese.
Contact us by email  03-6905-6371

3. Main Requirements for Obtaining the Long-Term Resident Visa for Raising a Japanese Child

Requirements for Changing from Spouse Visa to Long-Term Resident Visa

1. The Child Has Japanese Nationality

The fundamental requirement for the Long-Term Resident Visa for raising a Japanese child is that the child being raised has Japanese nationality. Whether the child has Japanese nationality is confirmed through official documents such as the family register and birth certificate. If the child was born outside Japan, it is necessary to file a birth registration with a Japanese embassy or consulate and prove that the child’s Japanese nationality has been properly registered.

In addition, if legal proof of the parent–child relationship (family register, acknowledgment, birth certificate, etc.) is incomplete, the examination for the Long-Term Resident Visa will not proceed smoothly. It is crucial to check and correct these points before applying.


2. Actual Cohabitation, Childcare, and Financial Support

It is not enough merely to have a legal parent–child relationship; there must be a real situation where the applicant is actually caring for and supporting the child. This means that you are living together, or you are regularly visiting and communicating with the child and providing financial support.

  • Proof of cohabitation: Resident record showing the same household, lease agreement, utility payment statements
  • Proof of childcare: School or nursery attendance records, health checkups and hospital visits accompanied by the parent, school communication notebooks and event participation records
  • Proof of support: Remittance records for living and education expenses, bank transfer statements, records of household expenditures

Even if living separately, if there is sufficient evidence of frequency and continuity of visitation and ongoing involvement in the child’s life, it may still be evaluated as actual childcare.


3. Stable Payment of Child Support and Living Expenses

Continuous payment of child support and living expenses is one of the most important factors in screenings that focus on the child’s welfare. Examiners look not only at whether the applicant has the financial capacity, but also at “how,” “how often,” and “for how long” the payments have been made.

  • Submit bank transfer statements or remittance records for a certain period
  • If paying in cash, prepare receipts, message history, or other written evidence
  • To prove income stability, submit employment contracts, tax certificates, and payslips

If child support payments are irregular or have been interrupted temporarily, attach a written explanation describing the reasons and clearly state a future payment plan. This can improve the chances of obtaining the Long-Term Resident Visa.


4. Stable Living Base in Japan (Housing and Income)

In the screening for the Long-Term Resident Visa, it is important to show that you have a stable living environment in Japan. This includes secured housing, stable income, and enrollment in social insurance.

  • Housing: Lease contracts, utility bills, resident registration of family members
  • Income: Stable earnings regardless of employment type (as a rough guide, an annual income of around 2 million yen or more)
  • Social credibility: Ongoing payment of taxes, pension contributions, and insurance premiums

For freelancers or self-employed persons, it is necessary to submit final tax returns, business licenses, contracts with clients, and similar documents to show that you have continuous income.


5. Child-Centered Criteria (Relationship with Family Court Decisions)

In screenings for the Long-Term Resident Visa for raising a Japanese child, “the child’s welfare” and “the best interests of the child” are the most important considerations. This is consistent with the criteria used by the family court in custody and guardianship decisions. The focus is not on the formality of the marriage, but on whether the child can live in a stable environment.

If the family court has granted custody or guardianship to the applicant, it will generally be a favorable factor in the screening. On the other hand, even without legal custody, if the actual childcare record, continuity of visitation, and financial support for the child are clearly proven, the rationality of granting residence may still be recognized.

Therefore, when applying, it is important to describe concretely “how you are supporting the child’s life as a parent” and to present in writing a life plan that prioritizes the child’s growth, education, and sense of security.

4. Required Documents and Key Points for the Long-Term Resident Visa Application

Required Documents for Long-Term Resident Visa Application

1. Family Register and Birth Certificate (Proof That the Child Is Japanese)

For a Long-Term Resident Visa application based on raising a Japanese child, official documents proving that the child is Japanese are the most important. The family register (koseki) must clearly show that the child has Japanese nationality and accurately record the parent–child relationship.

  • If the child was born in Japan: Certified copy of the family register issued by a Japanese municipality, showing the parent–child relationship
  • If the child was born outside Japan: Birth certificate and certificate of acceptance of birth registration filed at a Japanese embassy or consulate
  • Documents in foreign languages: A Japanese translation with the translator’s signature must be attached

If there are any errors or inconsistencies in the family register or birth registration, the examination may be delayed. First of all, check carefully to ensure the parent–child relationship and nationality are clearly established.


2. Resident Record and Proof of Living Together with the Child

The Long-Term Resident Visa for raising a Japanese child assumes that the applicant is actually living in Japan. Therefore, the resident record (juminhyo) is an important document that shows whether the parent and child live together.

  • If living together: Submit a resident record that lists the parent and child in the same household with family relationship indicated
  • If living separately: Even with different addresses, submit supplementary documents proving actual visitation and financial support
  • Examples of supplementary documents: Utility payment statements, certificates of school attendance, visitation schedules, photo records, etc.

If the household is split on the resident record or if there are errors in the entry, it becomes difficult for the immigration office to understand the actual situation. Check the details at the city office before filing the application.


3. Records of Child Support and Remittance Evidence

Payment of child support is treated as concrete evidence that the parent is supporting the child’s life and is given great weight. Clearly showing a continuous record of payments will increase the credibility of your application.

  • How to prove: Bank transfer statements, remittance receipts, copies of passbooks, receipts for cash payments
  • Recommended period: At least the past 6 months to 1 year (longer and more consistent records leave a better impression)
  • Supplement: For cash payments, receipts and screenshots of LINE, email, or other message logs confirming payment are effective

Even if your income is unstable, attaching a future payment plan can demonstrate sincerity and may still be positively evaluated.


4. Divorce Judgment and Documents Designating Custody

To explain the background leading to divorce or separation, you may be required to submit divorce-related judgments and documents that specify custody and guardianship.

  • Relevant documents: Certified copies of family court judgments, decisions, or mediation records; divorce agreements; notarial deeds
  • Important items to check: Who has legal custody or guardianship, and whether visitation and child support are stipulated
  • Note: Any document in a foreign language must be submitted together with a Japanese translation bearing the translator’s signature.

Even if you are not the legal custodian, you may still obtain the Long-Term Resident Visa if you can show a strong record of actual childcare and support. In such cases, prepare ample evidence demonstrating your actual involvement.

5. Consistency of Documents and Tips for Writing the Explanatory Statement

In screenings for the Long-Term Resident Visa for raising a Japanese child, if there are inconsistencies in the documents, the “reliability of the facts” may be questioned, and the examination may become prolonged or even result in refusal. It is therefore recommended to cross-check all documents and attach a written explanation (statement of reasons) summarizing your residence history and living situation.

  • Example structure for a statement of reasons:
    • ① Relationship with the child (birth, start of childcare, involvement in daily life)
    • ② Background of divorce or separation (honest explanation)
    • ③ Current living situation (housing, income, stability of support)
    • ④ Consideration for the child’s education and welfare
  • Consistency check points: Make sure dates, addresses, and names match across the family register, resident record, remittance records, visitation records, etc.
  • Supplement: If any inconsistencies exist, explain the reasons honestly and show your intention to avoid misunderstandings.

[Free Check of Long-Term Resident Visa Approval Possibility]
Tell us about your current residence status, and we will guide you to the shortest route to obtain a Long-Term Resident Visa for raising a Japanese child.
Support available in English and Chinese.
Contact us by email  03-6905-6371

5. Application Procedures by Case Type

1. Changing from Spouse Visa to Long-Term Resident Visa After Divorce

If, after divorce from a Japanese spouse, you continue to care for and support your Japanese child, you may apply to change your residence status from “Spouse or Child of Japanese National” to “Long-Term Resident”. Whether you live together with the child after divorce, or maintain regular visitation and childcare while living separately, will be a crucial factor in the screening.

  • Required documents: Certificate of acceptance of divorce notification, family register (showing the child’s Japanese nationality), resident record (proof of cohabitation), records of child support payments
  • Key point: It is advisable to apply within about six months after divorce. If too much time passes, it may be considered that the actual childcare has been interrupted.
  • Main approval factor: Whether your relationship with the child has been continuously maintained (concrete records of cohabitation, visitation, and financial support)

It is important to begin preparing for this status change promptly when the marriage ends, and to gather legal documents such as divorce agreements and judgments before filing the application.


2. When One Unmarried Parent Raises the Child

Even without a history of marriage, if there is a real situation where you are raising a Japanese child, you can apply for a Long-Term Resident Visa for raising a Japanese child. Especially when the father is the Japanese parent, if paternity has been legally acknowledged, that will serve as a strong basis for the application.

  • Required documents: Family register showing the child’s Japanese nationality and parent–child relationship, certificate of acknowledgment, resident record, records of child support, documents showing actual childcare
  • Key point: If acknowledgment has not yet been completed, it is first necessary to proceed with acknowledgment procedures at the family court.
  • Supplement: Even when the mother is a foreign national and gives birth out of wedlock, if the child has Japanese nationality, the case may fall under this Long-Term Resident Visa category.

Since the screening places the greatest emphasis on both the “reality of the parent–child relationship” and the “continuity of childcare,” you must illustrate not only with documents, but also with concrete evidence of daily life and financial support.


3. After Giving Birth in Japan: Arranging Residence Status for the Child and the Parent

When a foreign mother gives birth in Japan and the father is Japanese, the child can obtain Japanese nationality. In such cases, for the mother to continue living in Japan, it is necessary to change to a Long-Term Resident Visa for raising a Japanese child.

  • Required documents: Certificate of acceptance of birth registration, family register of the child, proof of marriage or acknowledgment with the Japanese father, copy of the maternal and child health handbook, resident record
  • Key point: Shortly after childbirth, priority is given to the mother’s health and stabilization of living conditions. Therefore, it is advisable to file the application to change residence status promptly after submitting the birth registration.
  • Supplement: If the father is Japanese and the parent–child relationship is clear, the mother’s residence as a “Long-Term Resident Visa for raising a Japanese child” is more likely to be approved.

Even if the child is born out of wedlock, it is still possible to apply, as long as the father has acknowledged the child. If acknowledgment has not yet been completed, it is recommended to proceed with the procedure at the family court in parallel with or immediately after birth registration.


4. When a Parent Living Abroad Comes to Japan to Raise a Child

If a Japanese child lives in Japan and a foreign parent abroad wishes to come to Japan to raise that child, they must apply for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE). This application is submitted to the Immigration Services Agency in Japan by a relative or supporter residing in Japan on behalf of the parent abroad.

  • Required documents: Application for Certificate of Eligibility, family register of the child, letter of guarantee, documents proving financial support and living expenses (tax certificates, payslips, etc.)
  • Key point: Examiners will pay close attention to whether the sponsor in Japan is economically stable and whether suitable housing is secured.
  • Supplement: If the parent being called to Japan has previously lived long-term in Japan, or has had a child with a Japanese spouse in the past, these may be evaluated favorably in screening.

The standard processing time is about 1–3 months. Once permission is granted, the Certificate of Eligibility is issued. The parent then applies for a visa at the Japanese embassy or consulate overseas, and after entering Japan, a residence card as a “Long-Term Resident” is issued.

6. Case Examples of Long-Term Resident Visas Approved by ACROSEED

At ACROSEED Immigration Lawyer's Office, we have supported many clients with complex family situations in obtaining a Long-Term Resident Visa for raising a Japanese child. Below are three actual cases that were approved. These examples may help you assess whether your own situation could also qualify.

[Case 1] Married Japanese Man and Pregnant Filipino Partner


Consultation summary:
The client (a Japanese man) was legally married, and his Filipino partner was pregnant.
The child had already been acknowledged by the father, but marriage to the mother was not possible. The client asked whether it would be possible for both the mother and child to live together in Japan in the future.

Main challenges

  • Because the client was already married, he could not marry the Filipino partner, so a spouse visa was not available
  • The mother’s entry to Japan alone required clear proof of the necessity of her childcare and support
  • From before the child’s birth, it was necessary to present a concrete childcare plan and financial support plan

Our support

  • Clarified the father–child relationship using acknowledgment documents and notarial deeds
  • Prepared a housing and support plan for the mother and child to live in Japan
  • Organized the client’s income and family situation and explained in detail the support framework for the mother and child
  • Outlined the procedures for birth registration and acquisition of Japanese nationality after the child’s birth to ensure a smooth visa application

Result

After the child’s birth, the immigration office recognized a strong “need for the mother to raise a Japanese child in Japan”, and the mother was granted a Long-Term Resident Visa.


[Case 2] De Facto Relationship with French Partner, No Marriage, Child with Japanese Nationality


Consultation summary:
The client was in a de facto relationship with a French woman. They had no plan to register their marriage, but their child had Japanese nationality.
They wanted to live in Japan as a family of three, but could not use a spouse visa, and asked which residence status might be possible.

Main challenges

  • No legal marriage, so a spouse visa was not available
  • Insufficient documentation to prove the relationship, such as cohabitation and childcare arrangements
  • Need to present a realistic financial support plan and overall living plan for the family of three

Our support

  • Collected documents showing the de facto partnership (joint-name contracts, proof of cohabitation, utility bills, etc.)
  • Explained that the child has Japanese nationality and that both parents’ involvement in childcare is necessary
  • Prepared a family life plan covering financial support, housing, nursery/school plans, and daily childcare
  • For the mother, documented in detail the necessity of her residence in Japan as the child’s primary caregiver

Result

The immigration office determined that there was a strong need for the mother to reside in Japan to raise a Japanese child, and her Long-Term Resident Visa was approved.


[Case 3] Mother Coming from the U.S. to Support Her Son Studying at a Japanese University


Consultation summary:
The client was an American woman.
She had a son with her Japanese husband, and the son enrolled in a university in Japan.
The Japanese father could not accompany them due to work in the United States, so the mother wanted to come to Japan alone to support her son’s life and studies.

Main challenges

  • The mother did not have Japanese nationality, so a clear reason was needed for her to reside in Japan alone
  • Whether the presence of the mother would be recognized as “necessary” support for an 18-year-old university student
  • Need to prove the father’s financial capacity and the concrete living plan for the mother and son in Japan

Our support

  • Obtained a letter of financial guarantee and income certificates from the father to show a stable financial base
  • Prepared a housing contract, living expense plan, and a detailed domestic living plan for the mother and son in Japan
  • Explained the need for the mother’s presence to provide emotional and practical support for the son’s daily life

Result

The immigration office judged that even for a university student, ongoing support and supervision from a parent were necessary, and the mother’s Long-Term Resident Visa was approved.

As these cases show, even when the family situation is complex, careful organization of the facts, proof of family relationships, and explanation of financial support can make it possible to obtain a Long-Term Resident Visa for raising a Japanese child. Consultations are free, so please feel free to contact ACROSEED Immigration Lawyer's Office.

[Free Check of Long-Term Resident Visa Approval Possibility]
Tell us about your current residence status, and we will guide you to the shortest route to obtain a Long-Term Resident Visa.
Support available in English and Chinese.
Contact us by email  03-6905-6371

7. After Obtaining the Long-Term Resident Visa: Renewal and Pathway to Permanent Residence

1. Initial Period of Stay (1 Year) and Renewal Trends

The initial period of stay for a Long-Term Resident Visa for raising a Japanese child is often 1 year. At the first renewal, immigration authorities focus on “how you lived during that first year”. After that, depending on your record, the period of stay may be extended to 3 years or 5 years.

  • Key points at renewal: Stable income (employment contracts, tax certificates, payslips) / continued childcare or visitation with the Japanese child / proper payment of taxes and social insurance / good conduct
  • Preparation schedule: Start gathering documents about 3 months before the expiry date (organize resident records, school-related documents, and remittance records in chronological order)
  • Note: If you have recently left a job or changed jobs, explain concretely in your statement of reasons your prospects for re-employment and your future living plan.

Key point: At renewal, immigration evaluates your “record since the last approval”. The continuity of income, childcare, tax payment, and insurance enrollment is crucial.


2. Continuing Residence After the Child Grows Up

When the child graduates from high school or becomes an adult and the actual need for childcare decreases, immigration will re-examine the current basis for residence at the next renewal. It is important to plan ahead with one of the following directions in mind:

  • If you wish to continue as a Long-Term Resident: Present a comprehensive picture of your long-term employment and tax record, ties with family and the local community, and your economic independence
  • If you consider another status: When employment is the main basis, consider changing to a work visa; if you remarry a Japanese national, you may switch to “Spouse or Child of Japanese National”
  • Supporting documents after the child’s independence: Summary of past childcare history, explanation of your current independent livelihood, records of community involvement (e.g., PTA, neighborhood associations)

Ideally, you should start planning for the next renewal or future status change before the childcare relationship effectively ends, and accumulate evidence systematically.


3. Conditions for Moving Toward Permanent Residence

If you maintain a stable stay as a Long-Term Resident for raising a Japanese child, you may eventually consider applying for permanent residence. The specific requirements vary case by case, but generally the following points are emphasized:

  • Residence history: A sufficiently long and stable period of stay (as a rough guide, 5 years or more under a status based on family ties)
  • Stable livelihood: Household income sufficient to maintain a stable life (employment contracts, tax returns, tax certificates)
  • Taxes and social insurance: No arrears of resident tax, income tax, pension contributions, or health insurance premiums (prove with bank records or receipts)
  • Good conduct: No serious violations of law, including traffic violations, and good adaptation to life in Japan
  • Consistency at family level: Immigration will also evaluate the residence, tax payment, and insurance status of your spouse and children

Permanent residence is granted based on a comprehensive evaluation. In particular, the four elements of income, taxes, insurance, and conduct should be managed consistently starting from each earlier renewal, not just at the time of the PR application.

Please see the following page for a detailed guide on permanent residence applications for Long-Term Residents:


8. Q&A on the Long-Term Resident Visa for Raising a Japanese Child

Q1. Can I apply even if I do not live with my child?

Yes, it is possible to apply even if you live separately. The key is to prove the actual childcare relationship. Show, in chronological order, your record of regular visitation, involvement in school and medical matters, and payment of living and education expenses.

  • Records of visitation (calendar entries, photos, receipts for transportation, communication logs)
  • School or nursery communication, records of attending parents’ meetings and school events
  • Remittance statements or receipts for living expenses, tuition, and medical costs

What matters is not one-time contact but continuity. Explain the actual situation of your involvement in a detailed statement of reasons.

Q2. Is it enough if I just pay child support without living with my child?

Continuous payment of child support is a very important factor, but by itself it is not sufficient. You should also show substantive childcare and involvement such as visitation, school contact, and participation in medical matters, which will increase the likelihood of approval.

  • Regularity of payments (monthly, each school term, etc.) and duration (6–12 months or longer)
  • Evidence of payment method (bank transfer slips, passbook copies, receipts)
  • Records of visitation, school communication, and accompanying the child to medical appointments

Q3. Can I keep my Long-Term Resident Visa after my child becomes an adult?

Once the child becomes an adult and lives independently, the basis of “raising a Japanese child” becomes weaker. For subsequent renewals, you will need to supplement the justification for your stay with other factors.

  • Long-term, stable record of employment, tax payment, and social insurance
  • Ties to family and the local community (cohabiting family members, community activities, etc.)
  • Consider switching to another status, such as a work visa or, if you remarry a Japanese national, “Spouse or Child of Japanese National”

If you meet the requirements for permanent residence, it is generally recommended to consider transitioning to permanent residence.

Q4. Is there any chance of approval if I do not have legal custody?

Even without legal custody, if you can show a continuing record of substantive childcare (visitation, supervision, and financial support), there is still a possibility of approval. Support your case with family court decisions on visitation, notarial deeds, and remittance records.

  • Copies of agreements, mediation records, or decisions regarding visitation
  • Records of actual visitation (photos, communication logs, schedules)
  • Evidence of child support payments (bank transfer slips, receipts)

In screening, actual practice matters more than formality. Explain the situation concretely in your statement of reasons.

Q5. How many years do I need before I can apply for permanent residence?

It varies depending on the individual situation, but generally you must have a long and stable record of residence in Japan (as a rough guide, 5 years or more under a status based on family ties). Immigration will then assess the following points comprehensively:

  • Stable income: Prove that the household can maintain its livelihood with employment contracts, tax returns, and tax certificates
  • Taxes and social insurance: No arrears of resident tax, income tax, pension, or health insurance premiums
  • Good conduct: Few or no legal violations, including traffic violations
  • Family-level consistency: Residence, tax, and insurance status of your spouse and children

Once you start thinking about permanent residence, it is important to accumulate evidence from the time of each renewal and organize it chronologically for a smoother application.

For more details on permanent residence applications from a Long-Term Resident Visa, please see the page below:


[Free Check of Long-Term Resident Visa Approval Possibility]
Tell us about your current residence status, and we will guide you to the shortest route to obtain a Long-Term Resident Visa.
Support available in English and Chinese.
Contact us by email  03-6905-6371

9.Google Customer Reviews

10. Long-Term Resident Visa Application Service for Raising a Japanese Child

1. Service Overview

This service is designed to support foreign parents who are raising a child with Japanese nationality and wish to obtain or renew a Long-Term Resident Visa for raising a Japanese child in Japan so they can continue their life here in a stable way.

At ACROSEED Immigration Lawyer's Office, we carefully organize multiple elements such as parent–child relationship, childcare history, and生活基盤 (living foundation), and prepare evidential documents in a format that is easy for immigration officers to understand. We provide specialized support to maximize your chance of approval for the Long-Term Resident Visa as a parent raising a Japanese child.

We handle cases such as the following:

・Continuing to raise a Japanese child after divorce or separation
・Raising a Japanese child as an unmarried mother or father
・Having given birth in Japan, and now wishing to obtain a Long-Term Resident Visa because the child has acquired Japanese nationality
・Continuing to support the child in practice through childcare, visitation, and financial support, even without legal custody

2. Scope of Our Services

  1. Preparing optimal supporting documents to prove the parent–child relationship and the actual childcare situation
  2. Filing applications with the Immigration Services Agency and handling the endorsement procedures upon approval
  3. Monitoring application progress during the examination period and responding to requests for additional documents
  4. Providing free re-application support and analysis of reasons if the application is not approved
  5. Providing strategic advice with a view toward a future permanent residence application

Because the Long-Term Resident Visa for raising a Japanese child is assessed comprehensively based on parent–child relationship, financial support, and stability of生活, the accuracy of documents and the persuasiveness of the statement of reasons are extremely important. Based on many past approvals, ACROSEED Immigration Lawyer's Office offers continuous support from the first application through renewals and on to permanent residence, so that you and your Japanese child can continue living in Japan with peace of mind.

3. Why choose ACROSEED


    Why clients choose ACROSEED

  • Founded in 1986; industry-leading 40,000+ visa filings
  • 99.9% approval rate; trusted by many clients
  • No travel expenses; flat fees nationwide
  • Extensive track record in complex/re-application after refusal cases
  • No add-on fees; transparent pricing
  • Free re-application until approval if refused
  • Support available in Japanese, English, and Chinese

Founded in 1986, with 40,000+ visa applications

Consulting for obtaining a Business Manager visa

ACROSEED was founded in 1986. Since 1990—the first year administrative scriveners were allowed to handle immigration under the law—we have specialized in immigration work. Our total filings exceed 40,000 (as of March 2025).

We currently handle 3,000–4,000 visa filings annually, visiting immigration twice a week to stay current on examinations and legal changes.

By choosing ACROSEED, you get services based on the latest examination trends and the industry’s deepest practical experience.


99.9% approval rate—peace of mind backed by clients’ trust

Since opening in 1986, ACROSEED has always prioritized trustworthy services. At the free consultation stage, if approval seems unlikely, we explain this and decline the engagement.

As a result, we have maintained an approval rate of 99%+ (including re-applications) since opening.

However, for cases with a viable chance where clients wish to proceed, we will make a maximum effort together.

Our attentive, tailored service has earned broad support from clients.


No travel fees—flat rates nationwide

Nationwide coverage

Our office is in Nagatacho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, but we handle immigration cases nationwide at flat rates with no travel expenses.

For distant clients, we offer online consultations via Skype or Zoom so you can speak face-to-face with your consultant just like an in-person visit.


Strong results in difficult and re-application cases

We have many approvals for cases repeatedly refused by clients on their own or by other law firms.

ACROSEED’s track record is unparalleled, and we are often referred the most difficult cases from around the country—operating like a “general hospital” for the industry.

Don’t give up—consult us even for seemingly difficult cases.


No add-on fees—transparent pricing

Pricing system for the Business Manager visa

Our service fees are only those listed on our website.

We do not add fees due to client circumstances such as frequent travel or prior refusals.

We provide a transparent pricing system for your peace of mind.


Free re-application until approval if refused

Free re-application if refused

If a case filed by ACROSEED is unfortunately refused, we will re-apply free of charge as long as there remains a possibility of approval.

While some competitors offer “full refunds if refused,” we believe refunds do not solve the client’s problem.

Accepting a case casually and leaving a refusal record in your filing history can make approval much harder later.

Clients who choose ACROSEED from among many firms deserve our stance of “getting the fastest approval possible—and if refused, supporting relentlessly until approval.”


4. Service Fee for Long-Term Resident Visa Application (Tax Excluded)

・There are absolutely no additional fees based on your individual conditions.

・The services of ACROSEED Immigration Lawyer's Office are available nationwide. Even if you live far from Tokyo, you can request our support at the same fee.

・Payment by Visa and MasterCard is also accepted.

Credit cards accepted

Obtaining a Long-Term Resident Visa 150,000 yen

11. Related Pages Often Read Together with Long-Term Resident Applications







Q&A Supervisor
Q&A監修者

ACROSEED Immigration Lawyer's Office
Representative Administrative Scrivener
Makoto Sano

1998 Graduated from Aoyamagakuin University
2001 Registered as an administrative scrivener

He has Over 20 years of experience as an international administrative scrivener, specializing in foreign employment consulting and residence procedures for foreign residents in Japan.

Click here to see information about his business achievements
Click here to see books he has authored

Free consultation/inquiry for visa application

Since opening our practice in 1986, we have been involved in consulting on visa applications for foreigners for nearly 40 years as an immigration lawyer.
Telephone consultation, email consultation, online consultation, and consultation at our office are available.

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