Introduction
For foreign nationals wishing to live in Japan long-term, the Long-Term Resident status is a significant goal. Even without formal academic qualifications or professional credentials, a change of status may be possible if the applicant has maintained a stable life in Japan. This article explains, based on official information from the Ministry of Justice, the life achievements evaluated in Long-Term Resident applications.
What Is the Long-Term Resident Visa?
The Long-Term Resident visa is granted to foreign nationals who have special circumstances justifying long-term residence in Japan. A key feature is that it imposes no work restrictions, allowing holders to engage in any occupation. Since academic background or professional experience is not required, this status is often suitable for individuals who graduated from Japanese high schools and found employment, or those married to Japanese nationals. The period of stay typically ranges from 6 months to 5 years and can be renewed.
Can You Change Status Without Academic or Professional Qualifications?
Yes, it is possible to obtain Long-Term Resident status without academic or professional qualifications. According to guidelines from the Immigration Services Agency, formal education or work history is not a mandatory requirement. Instead, the following factors are emphasized :
- Continuous residence in Japan
- Ability to support oneself financially
- Social and family ties
- Fulfillment of public obligations
For example, individuals who came to Japan during middle school, graduated from high school, and have worked under a work-eligible status for over five years may qualify for a change from “Specified Activities” to “Long-Term Resident.” In such cases, a high school diploma is sufficient, and no specialized qualifications are needed.
Life Achievements That Are Evaluated
When reviewing applications for Long-Term Resident status, immigration authorities conduct a comprehensive assessment of the applicant’s life achievements. Key factors include:
Financial Independence
Applicants must demonstrate stable income through documents such as pay slips, tax certificates, and employment contracts. An annual income of at least 3 million yen is generally considered favorable.
Family Ties
Family relationships with Japanese nationals or permanent residents are highly valued. In particular, applicants who have custody of Japanese children are more likely to be approved. The Ministry of Justice has published cases where applications from foreign nationals raising Japanese children were granted.
Fulfillment of Social Obligations
Proper compliance with public duties—such as tax payments, social insurance enrollment, and municipal registration—is essential. A clean record with no criminal history or traffic violations also supports the “good conduct” requirement.
Continuity of Residence
Long-term continuous residence in Japan is another important factor. For instance, having lived in Japan for over five years with properly renewed residence statuses demonstrates strong integration and stability.
Case Examples Illustrating Review Criteria
The Ministry of Justice has published cases where Long-Term Resident status was granted:
- Resided in Japan for about six years, raising a Japanese child as the custodial parent, and employed as a home care worker.
- Divorced due to domestic violence (DV) by the Japanese spouse, living separately, and employed as a nursing assistant with stable income.
- Married to a Special Permanent Resident for about 13 years, running a metal welding business with steady income.
Conversely, the following cases were denied:
- Convicted of fraud and assault.
- Stayed outside Japan for about 1 year and 9 months.
- Engaged in work at an entertainment establishment.
These examples highlight the importance of law-abiding behavior and active social contribution.
Summary
It is entirely possible to obtain Long-Term Resident status without academic or professional qualifications. What matters most is demonstrating solid “life achievements” in Japan. Success depends on clearly proving financial stability, family relationships, compliance with public duties, and continuous residence through proper documentation. Given the need for tailored preparation and document compilation, consulting with a qualified professional such as an administrative scrivener is strongly recommended.
