Nikkei Long-Term Resident Visa Application Guide｜For 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Generation Nikkei & Family Reunification

1. What Is the Nikkei Long-Term Resident Visa?

1. Definition of Nikkei and Generational Categories (2nd, 3rd, and 4th Generation)

In this guide, “Nikkei” refers to the descendants of a person who currently holds, or previously held, Japanese nationality. In general, this includes people whose parent or grandparent is Japanese, and depending on the blood relationship, they are described as “Nikkei 2nd generation,” “Nikkei 3rd generation,” or “Nikkei 4th generation.”

Nikkei 2nd generation are those who have a Japanese parent, typically in cases where “the father or mother is Japanese (or a former Japanese national).” Nikkei 3rd generation are those whose grandparent is Japanese, in cases where “at least one grandparent is Japanese (or a former Japanese national).” Furthermore, Nikkei 4th generation refers to those whose great-grandparent is Japanese, and in recent years, a specific residence scheme has been created for some Nikkei 4th generation residents.

However, the question of “up to which generation, and under what conditions, residence as a Nikkei Long-Term Resident is allowed” is determined on a case-by-case basis, taking into account factors such as nationality, marital history, age, and financial dependency. For this reason, in order to verify whether you may qualify as a Nikkei for the Long-Term Resident Visa, it is important that a specialist carefully reviews documentary evidence such as family registers and birth certificates that prove the blood relationship.

2. Legal Position of Nikkei under the “Long-Term Resident” Status

“Long-Term Resident” is one of the residence statuses defined by the Immigration Services Agency of Japan. It is a status of residence that is granted on an individual basis to foreign nationals who have special circumstances in terms of their life in Japan or their personal status or position, with the period of stay and activities determined case by case. A key feature is that there are relatively few restrictions on work, allowing employment in a wide range of occupations.

For Nikkei, if their blood relationship with Japan and the degree to which they have established a living base in Japan indicate that “there is reasonable justification for them to live stably in Japan”, the Nikkei Long-Term Resident Visa may be granted. In practice, immigration authorities comprehensively review documentary proof of kinship with Japanese relatives, the applicant’s employment and income sufficient to maintain their livelihood, and their prospects for adapting to life in Japanese society.

In addition, the “Long-Term Resident” framework may also be applied when considering the residence status of family members such as the Nikkei person’s spouse or children. For example, if the Nikkei本人 already holds a Long-Term Resident Visa and is living stably in Japan, it may be possible for their spouse or children to reside with a Long-Term Resident Visa or a Dependent Visa.

3. Differences from Other Long-Term Resident Categories (Divorce, Child Custody, Stepchildren)

Even when the status of residence is the same “Long-Term Resident,” the reason why the Long-Term Resident Visa is granted greatly affects the examination points and required documents. For example, there are Long-Term Resident cases that arise from a change of status after divorce or bereavement from a Spouse of Japanese National visa, cases where a person is raising a Japanese child, and cases where a stepchild of a Japanese national or Permanent Resident is called to Japan. These are categories based mainly on “marital relationship” or “parental authority and custody.”

By contrast, the Nikkei Long-Term Resident Visa is a category that places emphasis on the applicant’s blood relationship (roots) with a Japanese or former Japanese national, as well as their social and economic ties with Japan. In Long-Term Resident cases based on divorce, bereavement, or raising a Japanese child, the primary basis is “marital history as the spouse of a Japanese national” or “the fact of actually caring for and raising a Japanese child.” In Nikkei cases, however, documentary proof such as family registers and birth certificates that show that a parent or grandparent is (or was) Japanese becomes especially important.

In addition, for the Nikkei Long-Term Resident Visa, it is very common to plan your residence with a long-term perspective, including future employment, family reunification, and the possibility of applying for Permanent Residency. Therefore, clarifying which Long-Term Resident category you fall into, and whether there might be any other more suitable status of residence, is a key point for improving the chance of approval and for building a clear roadmap toward stable residence and future permanent residence.

4. Work Restrictions and Flexibility of Occupations

A major feature of the Long-Term Resident Visa is its high degree of freedom for employment. Unlike statuses such as Technical Intern Training or Specified Skilled Worker, the type of job is not restricted, and in principle you can work in almost any industry. This is a system designed so that Nikkei Long-Term Residents can make full use of their skills and experience in Japanese society.

In practice, employment is permitted in a wide range of fields, including manufacturing, nursing care, service, food and beverage, clerical work, and retail. Moreover, by obtaining permission for “Permission to Engage in an Activity Other Than That Permitted under the Status of Residence,” it is possible to have side jobs or operate a small business (for example, translation or design work).

On the other hand, even if your residence card shows “No restriction on work,” engaging in adult entertainment businesses or work that may be in violation of laws and regulations is not permitted. Building a stable work history and tax payment record will be advantageous later when applying for Permanent Residency, so it is extremely important to maintain continuous and lawful employment.

In this way, the Long-Term Resident Visa is a highly flexible status of residence that can support three important goals at the same time: stabilizing your life base, building your career, and stepping toward Permanent Residency.

2. Main Residence Status Options for Nikkei Living in Japan

1. Residence with a “Long-Term Resident” Visa

When a Nikkei person wishes to live in Japan on a long-term basis, the most common status of residence is the “Long-Term Resident” Visa. This is a status of residence granted by the Immigration Services Agency after considering individual circumstances, with relatively few restrictions on activities, and it allows the holder to work freely in most occupations.

When Nikkei 2nd or 3rd generation residents build a stable life base in Japan, the Long-Term Resident Visa may be granted based on a comprehensive assessment of their “blood relationship with Japan,” “stable financial basis,” and “level of social integration.” Holders of this status can work in any field, and the path toward a future Permanent Residency application is also open.

In many cases, not only the Nikkei本人 but also their spouse and children may reside in Japan with a Long-Term Resident Visa. The fact that the entire family can live under the same status of residence is one of the major advantages of this visa.

2. Change of Status from “Dependent”

Some Nikkei initially enter Japan on a “Dependent” Visa and later change their status to a Long-Term Resident Visa. For example, when the spouse or child of a Nikkei is called to Japan, they may first stay on a Dependent Visa, and after their actual living conditions and income have become stable, they may then be allowed to change to a Long-Term Resident Visa.

In such changes, documents that prove the family’s dependency and actual living conditions (evidence of cohabitation, resident records, income certificates, etc.) are particularly important. Because the Dependent Visa has restrictions on work, changing to a Long-Term Resident Visa is an effective option for those who wish to have greater freedom in employment.

3. Cases of Change from “Technical Intern Training” or “Specified Skilled Worker”

There are also cases where Nikkei who currently reside in Japan under Technical Intern Training or a Specified Skilled Worker Visa change their status to a Long-Term Resident Visa. For example, after completing a period of Technical Intern Training, if it is confirmed that the person or their relatives have Japanese ancestry, a change to a Long-Term Resident Visa may be allowed based on their residence history and the way they have built their life in Japan.

In addition, more and more Nikkei currently working under the Specified Skilled Worker status wish to change to a Long-Term Resident Visa in order to build a more stable life base and bring family members to Japan. Because Technical Intern Training and Specified Skilled Worker statuses limit occupations and have an upper limit on the period of stay, changing to a Long-Term Resident Visa is an effective option for those who want more freedom in their daily life and career planning.

When making such a change, authorities will carefully review factors such as the applicant’s previous residence history, employment contracts, and payment records for taxes and social insurance, to confirm that they have maintained a sincere and compliant stay in Japan.

4. Differences from Permanent Resident and Spouse of Japanese National Visas

The “Long-Term Resident” Visa is often confused with the “Permanent Resident” and “Spouse or Child of Japanese National” Visas. However, these statuses serve different purposes and have significantly different examination criteria. The table below summarizes the main differences.

In other words, the Long-Term Resident Visa is not an unlimited status like “Permanent Resident,” and it is not a status based on a continuing marriage like “Spouse or Child of Japanese National.” Instead, it is positioned as an “intermediate” status of residence that comprehensively considers ancestry, stability of life base, and level of social integration. By choosing the status of residence that best matches your circumstances and goals, you can build a more stable and realistic residence plan in Japan.

3. Scope of the Nikkei Long-Term Resident Visa and Requirements by Generation

1. Nikkei 2nd Generation: Case Where the Applicant Is a Child of a Japanese National

Nikkei 2nd generation refers to a person whose father or mother is Japanese (or a former Japanese national). Because such applicants are direct descendants of a Japanese national, they are generally regarded as the generation with the strongest connection to Japan, and the Nikkei Long-Term Resident Visa tends to be easier to obtain compared to other generations.

In screening, a family register (koseki) or birth certificate proving that the parent is Japanese is essential. In addition, in order to demonstrate that a stable life in Japan is possible, information such as the applicant’s place of employment, level of income, housing situation, and family composition will also be important factors.

If a Nikkei 2nd generation applicant is married, there is also a possibility that their spouse and children may be allowed to stay in Japan with a “Long-Term Resident Visa” or “Dependent Visa”. By living in Japan for a certain period, paying taxes, and joining social insurance, the applicant can also open the way to a future Permanent Residency application.

2. Nikkei 3rd Generation: Case Where a Grandparent Is Japanese

Nikkei 3rd generation refers to a person whose grandparent is Japanese or a former Japanese national. Because the blood relationship is one generation further removed compared to Nikkei 2nd generation, the rationality of living in Japan and the applicant’s ability to adapt to Japanese society are even more important in the examination of a Nikkei Long-Term Resident Visa.

In general, Nikkei 3rd generation applicants come to Japan primarily for the purpose of working and are then granted a Long-Term Resident Visa. At the time of application, in addition to a family register or birth certificates proving that a grandparent is Japanese, the key screening points include the applicant’s employment plan, Japanese language ability, and stability of their living base in Japan.

In many cases, Nikkei 3rd generation applicants are permitted on the premise that they will be able to support themselves through employment in Japan. Therefore, stable employment contracts and income certificates are required. If they intend to bring family members to Japan, they must also demonstrate that they have a sufficient economic base to support a spouse and children living together.

It should be noted that the Nikkei 3rd generation Long-Term Resident Visa does not impose any work restrictions, so holders can work in a wide variety of fields. Unlike Technical Intern Training or Specified Skilled Worker statuses, changing jobs or having side jobs is also permitted.

3. Nikkei 4th Generation: Differences from the “Designated Activities” Visa (Youth Program)

Nikkei 4th generation refers to the generation whose great-grandparents are Japanese. Because the blood relationship to Japan is even more distant in this generation, the standard scheme is not the usual “Long-Term Resident Visa,” but rather a specific “Designated Activities” Visa (commonly known as the Nikkei 4th Generation Acceptance Program).

This program was created by the Japanese government to promote “exchange between young Nikkei and Japanese society and culture.” In principle, it has an age limit of 18 to 30 years old. The permitted activities and length of stay are predetermined by the program, and the system places greater emphasis on “adaptation to Japanese society” than on ordinary employment activities.

On the other hand, even for Nikkei 4th generation individuals, there are cases where a Long-Term Resident Visa may be granted if family or economic circumstances make it reasonably necessary for them to live in Japan. However, such cases are exceptional, and it is important to proceed carefully with the support of a specialist when applying.

In short, Nikkei 4th generation applicants should understand that, in principle, they use the “Designated Activities” Visa scheme, and that access to the Long-Term Resident Visa is limited to cases with special circumstances.

4. Conditions for Accompanying or Bringing Family Members (Spouse and Children)

When a Nikkei person is residing in Japan with a Long-Term Resident Visa, it is also possible to bring their spouse and children to live in Japan. In such family reunification cases, immigration authorities will review the following conditions:

• Financial capacity: The sponsor’s income and employment status must be stable enough to support the living expenses of the entire family.
• Actual cohabitation: The family must actually live together in Japan, and the dependency relationship must be clear.
• Type of status of residence: Spouses and children will typically reside in Japan under either the “Long-Term Resident” or “Dependent” status.
• Housing and educational environment: There must be a living environment that allows children to attend school and enables the family to live safely and comfortably.

In addition, proof of the genuineness of the marital relationship and the parent-child relationship is crucial. Official documents such as marriage certificates and birth certificates will be required. The decision on whether family members may be brought to Japan is made based on a comprehensive assessment of the sponsor’s Long-Term Resident Visa situation, including their period of stay, income, and tax payment records.

In particular, when Nikkei 3rd or 4th generation residents wish to bring family members, the stability of their economic base and the extent of their ability to support the family become central points of examination. Therefore, if you plan to live with family in Japan, it is important to prepare a long-term life plan and residence strategy in advance.

4. Requirements for Nikkei Applicants to Obtain a Long-Term Resident Visa

1. Financial Capacity (Employment and Income Requirements)

One of the most important factors in screening for a Long-Term Resident Visa is the applicant’s financial capacity. This refers to whether the person has sufficient income and employment stability to live in Japan without difficulty. In the case of a Nikkei Long-Term Resident Visa, immigration authorities place particular emphasis on the applicant’s ability to support their own life independently.

During the examination, documents such as employment contracts, payslips, tax certificates, and bank balance certificates will be reviewed. The form of employment does not necessarily have to be a permanent position; contract employees, dispatched workers, and part-time workers may also be accepted, as long as there is stable income above a certain level. As a rough guide, for a single person an annual income of around 2 million yen is often expected, and higher income levels are required when supporting a family, depending on the number of dependents.

Even if the applicant is temporarily unemployed or has not yet secured a new job, the application may still be approved if it can be shown that their living expenses can be covered, for example through a high likelihood of re-employment or financial support from family. Therefore, it is important to clearly present a realistic future life plan.

2. Conduct, Tax Payment, and Social Insurance Status

For a Long-Term Resident Visa, it is not enough simply to have income. The authorities will also examine whether the applicant is living appropriately as a member of Japanese society. In particular, past legal violations or traffic offenses, as well as the payment status of taxes, pension, and health insurance, will be checked in detail.

Tax and social insurance status are confirmed using the following documents:

• Taxation and tax payment certificates for resident tax (usually for the most recent 1–2 years)
• Payment records for social insurance and national pension
• Copy of the health insurance card (through employer or National Health Insurance)

If there are unpaid taxes or long-term non-enrollment in social insurance, there is a real risk that the Long-Term Resident Visa application will be denied. It is desirable to rectify these issues and submit payment certificates to show that the situation has been corrected.

Frequent traffic violations or repeated minor legal infractions may also be deemed poor conduct. It is therefore recommended that applicants review their own records in advance of filing an application.

3. Submission of Identification and Family Relationship Documents

When a Nikkei applicant applies for a Long-Term Resident Visa, it is necessary to submit documents proving the blood relationship with a Japanese national. These usually consist of a combination of documents issued in Japan and abroad, and ensuring consistency among these documents is extremely important.

Typical examples of required documents include:

• Japanese family register (koseki): Showing the Japanese (or former Japanese) parent or grandparent.
• Birth certificate: An official document proving the blood relationship between the applicant and the Japanese relative (with translation).
• Marriage certificate: Required when bringing a spouse or if there are dependents.
• Copies of passport and residence card: For the applicant and any family members living together.

For documents issued overseas, it is necessary to attach a Japanese translation in addition to the original. The translation should include the translator’s signature and contact details, and reliability is further enhanced if the documents are notarized or certified by a Japanese embassy or consulate.

In verifying blood relationships, it is often necessary to link documents from multiple countries, so it is essential to carefully check all details to avoid errors or inconsistencies.

4. Points to Note in Screening (Forgery, Authenticity, and Confirmation of Biological Children)

In the screening of Nikkei Long-Term Resident Visas, there have been past problems involving forged documents and false applications. For this reason, immigration authorities strictly verify the authenticity of documents and the reality of family relationships. If a birth certificate or marriage certificate has an unusual format, or if there are inconsistencies in dates or names, the applicant may be asked to submit additional documents or attend an interview.

Confirmation of whether the child is a biological child is also an important point. In cases of remarriage or adoption, supplementary materials such as photographs, remittance records, and communication history may be required to demonstrate the actual parent-child relationship.

If false declarations or document tampering are discovered, the application will not only be refused but may also have a serious negative impact on all future residence screenings. It is therefore essential to submit accurate documents that can be properly substantiated.

In many Nikkei cases, the applicant may have connections to multiple countries and places of birth, and it is common for documents to span several languages. Therefore, working with an immigration specialist or gyoseishoshi to check translations and consistency of all documents is the most reliable shortcut to a smooth approval.

5. Main Application Routes for Nikkei Long-Term Resident Visa Applicants

1. Bringing Family from Overseas (Certificate of Eligibility Application)

When inviting a Nikkei person or their family members who are living overseas to Japan, the first step on the Japan side is to apply for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE). This procedure functions as a “pre-screening to obtain a status of residence in Japan.” Once approved, the COE is issued, and the applicant uses it to apply for a visa at the Japanese embassy or consulate in their country of residence.

The examination period is usually about 1–3 months. After the Certificate of Eligibility has been issued, the applicant applies for a visa at the Japanese embassy or consulate, and upon entering Japan, they begin their stay under the Long-Term Resident Visa.

2. Changing Status Inside Japan

There are also many cases where Nikkei who are already staying in Japan under another status of residence apply to change to a Long-Term Resident Visa according to their circumstances. Typical patterns include the following:

• Nikkei who have been working under a Technical Intern Training or Specified Skilled Worker Visa and now wish to build a long-term life base and obtain a more stable status of residence.
• Spouses or children of Nikkei who are staying on a Dependent Visa and now wish to start working independently and support themselves.
• Cases where the status is changed from a Short-Term Stay or Student Visa to a status based on personal status, such as Long-Term Resident.

In principle, change of status applications are submitted at the Immigration Services Agency of Japan. Immigration will conduct a comprehensive examination of the applicant’s residence history, work record, income, and overall living situation. In particular, the “proven track record of living continuously and stably in Japan” is a key factor, and the applicant’s renewal history, resident registration, tax payment, and social insurance enrollment status are all important points of consideration.

By changing from a status that restricts activities, such as Technical Intern Training or Dependent, to a Long-Term Resident Visa, the freedom to choose occupations increases, and it becomes easier to change jobs, start a business, and eventually apply for Permanent Residency. This is a major advantage for many Nikkei residents.

Because the Long-Term Resident Visa is often decided based on individual family composition and living circumstances, the optimal application strategy will differ from one Nikkei applicant to another.
At ACROSEED Immigration Lawyer's Office, we draw on our extensive track record of approvals to provide comprehensive support, from change of status and simultaneous family applications to long-term planning that looks ahead to a future Permanent Residency application.

3. Moving Forward to Renewal and Permanent Residency

The Long-Term Resident Visa is granted with a fixed period of stay, such as 1, 3, or 5 years. When the expiry date approaches, you must submit an application for renewal. At renewal, immigration will once again examine how you have been living in Japan since your last approval.

The following points are particularly important:

• Continuity of stable income and employment
• Tax and social insurance payment status
• Good conduct (no serious violations or criminal records)

If you repeatedly renew your Long-Term Resident Visa and build a strong track record of stable life in Japan—while maintaining tax payment, social insurance enrollment, and social trust—you may eventually apply for a Permanent Resident Visa. In general, permanent residency requires 10 or more years of residence in Japan (in some cases, 5 or more years with Long-Term Resident status may be sufficient), a stable income, and strong social credibility.

For Nikkei residents, immigration will often evaluate the residence history and living base of the entire family unit, so it is important to prepare a long-term plan for permanent residency for the family as a whole.

For more details on applying for Permanent Residency from a Long-Term Resident Visa, please see the page below.

Guide to Applying for Permanent Residency from a Long-Term Resident Visa

A guide for those who wish to obtain Permanent Residency from a Long-Term Resident (teijusha) Visa. Detailed explanations by immigration lawyers on requirements such as length of stay, income level, independent livelihood, tax payment, and social insurance, as well as key points to avoid refusal. Includes a free self-check tool.

4. Immigration Examination Processing Time

The average processing time for immigration examinations is announced and updated monthly. You can check the latest average processing days at the link below.

6. Required Documents for a Nikkei Long-Term Resident Visa Application

Please note that the list of required documents is frequently updated due to changes in laws and regulations. Always check the latest information on the website of the Immigration Services Agency of Japan.

If you engage ACROSEED Immigration Lawyer's Office, we will start from the list of required documents published on the immigration website, and then tailor and prepare the set of documents that we judge to give the highest chance of approval based on your specific circumstances.

When the Foreign Applicant Is a Nikkei 3rd Generation

When the Foreign Applicant Is the Spouse (Husband or Wife) of a Nikkei 2nd Generation

3. When the Foreign Applicant Is the Spouse (Husband or Wife) of a Nikkei 3rd Generation

7. Q&A on the Nikkei Long-Term Resident Visa

If the Nikkei 3rd generation principal applicant is already living stably in Japan with a Long-Term Resident Visa, there is a possibility that their spouse may also be granted a Long-Term Resident Visa. However, the same status of residence is not granted automatically. Immigration authorities will make a comprehensive judgment based on the reality of the marriage, the couple’s financial capacity (household income), and their actual cohabitation.

In some cases, the spouse may first reside in Japan with a “Dependent” Visa and, after building up a track record of stable life, later apply to change to a Long-Term Resident Visa. The most appropriate status of residence depends on the couple’s nationality, age, occupation, and income, so we recommend that you seek individualized advice.

The Nikkei 4th Generation Program (Designated Activities Visa) is a system with a fixed period and pre-defined activity contents, designed for young Nikkei whose great-grandparents are Japanese. In principle, it is limited to those between 18 and 30 years of age, and its purpose is to promote the applicant’s adaptation to Japanese society through work and daily life in Japan.

By contrast, the Long-Term Resident Visa is a status of residence in which the period of stay and permitted activities are set on a case-by-case basis, regardless of age or participation in a specific program. It has few work restrictions, allows employment in a wide range of occupations, and is well suited as a step toward a future permanent residency application.

In other words, the Nikkei 4th Generation Program is a “Designated Activities status with fixed conditions as a program,” while the Long-Term Resident Visa is best understood as a “flexible status based on individual circumstances” within the category of personal-status-based residence.

No. A child will not automatically be granted a Long-Term Resident Visa just because they were born in Japan. As a general rule, a child’s status of residence is determined in connection with the parents’ status. For example, if the parent has a Long-Term Resident Visa, the child will often reside as “Long-Term Resident” or “Dependent.” If the parent has a “Spouse or Child of Japanese National,” “Permanent Resident,” or “Work Visa,” then the child will be granted an appropriate status of residence corresponding to that parent.

Similarly, being born in Japan does not mean that Japanese nationality is automatically granted. Both nationality and status of residence are determined individually based on the parents’ nationality, residence status, and marital relationship. Therefore, it is important to complete the application procedures to obtain an appropriate status of residence for the child as soon as possible after birth.

Although the Long-Term Resident Visa has very few restrictions on work, whether you maintain a stable income and living base is always an important point in the examination. If you change or leave your job, you should pay attention to the following:

• Avoid remaining unemployed for a long period, and try to secure a new job as early as possible.
• Be careful about leaving your job immediately before your period of stay expires, as doing so can be disadvantageous when applying for renewal. It is wise to plan your job change with your renewal timing in mind.
• After changing jobs, keep your employment contract and payslips safely on file so that you can submit them at the time of your next renewal or permanent residency application.

A short period of job change itself is not necessarily a problem, but immigration will evaluate “whether your life is stable overall” and “whether you have continuous income”. If you have any concerns, we recommend consulting a specialist before you change jobs.

The requirements for a Permanent Residency application vary depending on individual circumstances, but in many cases, where a Long-Term Resident wishes to apply for permanent residency, a commonly used guideline is to have stayed continuously in Japan for at least 5 years after obtaining Long-Term Resident status.

In addition to the length of stay, the following points are also important:

• Stable income (a level that allows the household to maintain its livelihood on a continuous basis)
• No arrears in payment of resident tax, income tax, and social insurance premiums
• Good conduct, with few or no legal violations including traffic violations
• That the family as a whole has established its main life base in Japan

For many Nikkei Long-Term Residents, if their employment, tax payment status, and family living situation are well established, there are many cases in which the entire family can consider applying for Permanent Residency together. Because the specific timing and conditions depend greatly on individual circumstances, it is advisable to consult a specialist in detail once you seriously start to consider permanent residency.

For more detailed information on Permanent Residency applications by Nikkei Long-Term Residents, please see the page below.

Guide to Applying for Permanent Residency from a Long-Term Resident Visa

A guide for those who wish to obtain Permanent Residency from a Long-Term Resident (teijusha) Visa. Detailed explanations by immigration lawyers on requirements such as length of stay, income level, independent livelihood, tax payment, and social insurance, as well as key points to avoid refusal. Includes a free self-check tool.

9. Our Nikkei Long-Term Resident Visa Application Services

1. Service Overview

This service is designed to support Nikkei 2nd, 3rd, and 4th generation descendants of Japanese nationals in obtaining and renewing a Long-Term Resident Visa so that they can build a stable life in Japan.

At ACROSEED Immigration Lawyer's Office, we provide specialized support to maximize the approval rate, from preparing documentation to prove blood relationships, to designing the most suitable application plan that takes into account your employment, income, and family structure.

We handle cases such as the following:

2. What Our Service Includes

1. Proposals and preparation support for the most suitable set of supporting documents that substantiate blood relationships and your living base in Japan
2. Representation in filing applications with the Immigration Services Agency and handling endorsement procedures upon approval
3. Support for both Certificate of Eligibility applications (bringing family from overseas) and Change of Status applications (for those already in Japan)
4. Monitoring the progress of the examination and responding to any requests for additional documents
5. Free re-application support and analysis of reasons in the event of a refusal
6. Strategic advice aimed at obtaining longer periods of stay (3-year or 5-year Long-Term Resident status)

Because the Nikkei Long-Term Resident Visa is granted based on a comprehensive assessment of multiple factors—including blood ties, employment, and financial situation—professional document preparation and accurate organization of information are essential. Drawing on our extensive record of successful approvals, ACROSEED Immigration Lawyer's Office provides comprehensive support so that you and your family can live 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

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

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

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

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. Fees for Long-Term Resident Visa Application Support (Excluding Tax)

・There are no additional charges based on your personal conditions.

・ACROSEED Immigration Lawyer's Office serves clients throughout Japan. Even if you live far from Tokyo, you can use our services at the same fee.

・Payment by Visa and MasterCard is also accepted.

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

Guide to Applying for Permanent Residency from Long-Term Resident Status

A guide for Long-Term Resident Visa holders who wish to obtain Permanent Residency. Explains requirements such as years of stay, income criteria, financial independence, tax payment, and social insurance, as well as key points to avoid denial. Includes a free self-check tool.

Application Guide for the Status of Residence “Long-Term Resident”

A systematic explanation by specialists of the “Long-Term Resident” status: system overview, differences from Permanent Resident, four major categories of eligibility, required documents, and key screening points.

How to Obtain a Long-Term Resident Visa after Divorce from a Japanese Spouse

Explains the requirements for a Long-Term Resident Visa after divorce (financial stability, settlement in Japan, raising a biological child, etc.) and important points to note. Also covers official approval/denial cases and the latest screening periods.

Long-Term Resident Visa for Raising a Japanese Child

Specialists explain Long-Term Resident Visas for those raising a Japanese child: eligibility requirements, required documents, change/extension procedures, key screening points, and the path from Long-Term Resident to Permanent Residency.

Long-Term Resident Visa for Bringing a Minor, Unmarried Biological Child from Overseas

A detailed explanation by specialists of the Long-Term Resident Visa procedures when a minor, unmarried biological child is to be supported in Japan by a Permanent Resident, Long-Term Resident, or Spouse of Japanese National.

Complete Guide to Long-Term Resident Visas for Nikkei Applicants

An administrative scrivener explains the conditions, procedures, and required documents for Nikkei 2nd, 3rd, and 4th generation applicants to obtain a Long-Term Resident Visa in Japan.