Introduction
In recent years, there has been an increase in cases where technical interns or specified skilled workers in Japan wish to change their residency status to “Long-Term Resident.” However, if the application is not well-prepared or the requirements are not met, many are denied permission. This article explains common reasons for denial and ways to avoid them, citing official Ministry of Justice and Immigration Services Agency sources.
Main Reasons for Denial When Changing to “Long-Term Resident”
1. Insufficient Living Circumstances or Reason for Application
A change to “Long-Term Resident” is only permitted in cases recognized by the Minister of Justice as requiring special consideration, such as humanitarian or social circumstances. Simply wishing to have more freedom or because your period of stay is ending is not sufficient — such applications are mostly denied.
2. History of Violations or Fraud During Stay
If the applicant has a history of unauthorized resignation, disappearance, illegal work, or violation of authorized activities during technical intern or specified skilled worker status, the application will be rigorously examined and is likely to be denied.
3. Missing Requirements or Insufficient Proof
- Lack of proof of good completion of Technical Intern (ii) or Specified Skilled Worker
- Insufficient documentation about family or circumstances
- Unclear reasons for a job change or inability to prove financial stability
These situations can lower the credibility of the application and often result in denial.
4. Violations of Reporting Duties or Registration Issues
Failure to submit relocation notifications, residence registration, or employer notifications can also be grounds for denial, as these omissions are easily discovered by authorities.
How to Avoid Denial
1. Give Clear and Detailed Reasons
Applicants should refer to the Immigration Services Agency’s definition of “special circumstances” and provide concrete, detailed explanations, such as:
- Needing to support a family in Japan
- Divorce, bereavement, or other unavoidable situations
- Proof of long-term establishment in Japan
Supplementary documents (such as family registry certificates or proofs of marriage dissolution) are essential.
2. Review Your Stay History and Confirm No Violations
If there have been violations, applicants should provide honest explanations and emphasize sincere efforts to rehabilitate and integrate into society.
3. Prepare All Required Documents Thoroughly
- Attach proof of good completion or exam certificates
- Ensure residence registration and all required notifications are completed
- Follow up-to-date guidelines from the Ministry of Justice and Immigration Services Agency
Missing or incorrect documents are a major cause of denial.
4. Avoid Reckless Applications
If requirements cannot be satisfied, consider other residency statuses (such as Specified Skilled Worker or Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services) first.
Conclusion
Applications for change of status from technical intern or specified skilled worker to “Long-Term Resident” are not easily approved and require careful explanation with supporting documents. The best approach is to consult the official guidelines, prepare thoroughly, and verify all information via the official website of the Ministry of Justice and Immigration Services Agency.
