Guide for Fourth-Generation Foreign Nationals of
Japanese Descent
(Revised on December 28, 2023)
Table of Contents
1. Background for the Establishment of the "Further Acceptance System for Fourth-
Generation Foreign Nationals of Japanese Descent" ................................................................ 1
2. Purpose and Overview of the System ..................................................................................... 1
3. Activities Fourth-Generation Foreign Nationals of Japanese Descent Can Engage in Under
This System.................................................................................................................................. 2
(1) About Language and Culture Activities ........................................................................... 3
(2) Regarding Work Activities................................................................................................. 3
4. Procedures Fourth-Generation Foreign Nationals of Japanese Descent Need to Complete
Before Entering Japan................................................................................................................. 4
(1) Securing a Supporter ......................................................................................................... 4
(2) Application for Certificate of Eligibility............................................................................ 4
(3) Visa Application.................................................................................................................. 7
5. Procedures Fourth-Generation Foreign Nationals of Japanese Descent Need to Complete
After Entering Japan................................................................................................................... 7
(1) Notification of Place of Residence ..................................................................................... 7
(2) Enrollment in National Health Insurance ....................................................................... 7
(3) Applications for Extension of Period of Stay .................................................................... 8
6. About Supporters for Fourth-Generation Foreign Nationals of Japanese Descent .......... 10
(1) What is a Supporter for Fourth-Generation Foreign Nationals of Japanese Descent?
................................................................................................................................................ 10
(2) The Role of the Supporter................................................................................................ 10
(3) Requirements for Supporters .......................................................................................... 11
(4) Changing Supporters ....................................................................................................... 12
7. After Completing Activities Under This System.................................................................. 12
8. Consultation Services ............................................................................................................ 14
(1) Consultations Regarding Entry and Residency Procedures.......................................... 14
(2) Consultations Related to Daily Life................................................................................ 15
(3) Work-Related Consultations............................................................................................ 15
(4) Human Rights Consultations.......................................................................................... 16
(5) Legal Consultations ......................................................................................................... 16
(6) General Consultations ..................................................................................................... 17
9. If You Need Help .................................................................................................................... 17
Development and Revision History
April 27, 2018 - Established March 29, 2021 - Revised
October 10, 2018 - Revised December 28, 2023 - Revised
December 5, 2018 - Revised
September 23, 2020 - Revised
January 21, 2021 - Revised11. Background for the Establishment of the "Further Acceptance System for Fourth-
Generation Foreign Nationals of Japanese Descent"
Up to this point, amongst people of Japanese descent Japan's policy has generally
permitted only up to Third-Generation Foreign Nationals of Japanese Descent (that
is, the grandchildren of those who have moved abroad) to enter the country.
However, communities of Japanese descent living abroad, which include many
descendants of Japanese emigrants, have requested that Fourth-Generation Foreign
Nationals of Japanese Descent, who have generally not been permitted to enter Japan,
be allowed to visit in the same manner as third-generation individuals.
Among Fourth-Generation Foreign Nationals of Japanese Descent, there are those
who feel a strong connection to Japan, the homeland of their great-grandparents, and
wish to visit.
In response to this situation, the "Further Acceptance System for Fourth-
Generation Foreign Nationals of Japanese Descent" (hereinafter "System") has been
established to allow these individuals to visit Japan more freely than before and learn
about Japanese culture, etc.
2. Purpose and Overview of the System
The purpose of this System is to have Fourth-Generation Foreign Nationals of
Japanese Descent become bridges between Japan and overseas Japanese communities
by providing opportunities for them to engage in activities to learn about Japanese
culture in Japan.
Fourth-Generation Foreign Nationals of Japanese Descent entering Japan under
this System will be allowed to stay in Japan for up to five years. Additionally, they are
also allowed to work as long as they engage in activities to learn about Japanese
culture, etc.
For Fourth-Generation Foreign Nationals of Japanese Descent to enter and stay in
Japan using this System, they must meet certain requirements, and during their
cumulative three years of stay in Japan, support from "Supporters for Fourth-
Generation Foreign Nationals of Japanese Descent" (hereinafter referred to as
"Supporters"), who will provide support free of charge, is required.
There are no nationality restrictions for Fourth-Generation Foreign Nationals of
Japanese Descent who are allowed to enter under this System, but the number1 that
can enter Japan using this System is limited to 4,000 people per year.
Furthermore, those who have stayed in Japan for a total of five years using this
System and meet certain requirements will be considered to have sufficiently
understood Japanese culture, etc., and recognized as having no difficulties in their
daily lives in Japan. Therefore, taking into account their continued residence in Japan
1The annual acceptance quota will be determined considering the entry and residence status of Fourth-Generation
Foreign Nationals of Japanese Descent using this System, as well as its impact on local communities.2and their role as bridges strengthening the ties with overseas Japanese communities,
a change of their residence status to "Long Term Resident" will be allowed.
The flow of entry and residence in Japan for Fourth-Generation Foreign Nationals
of Japanese Descent using this System is illustrated in the following diagram.
Process of Entry and Residency (Overview)
ApplicationandIssuanceofCertificateofEligibility1Visa
ApplicationandIssuance
Landing
ApplicationandApproval
"Designated
Activities(6months)"
ApplicationandApprovalforExtensionofPeriodofStay"Designated
Activities(6months)"
ApplicationandApprovalforExtensionofPeriodofStay"Designated
Activities(1year)"2ApplicationandApprovalforExtensionofPeriodofStay"Designated
Activities(1year)"
ApplicationandApprovalforExtensionofPeriodofStay"Designated
Activities(1year)"3,4
ApplicationandApprovalforExtensionofPeriodofStay"Designated
Activities(1year)"
ReturntoHome
Country
ApplicationandApprovalforChangeofResidence
Status
"LongTermResident(1year)"5Residency
Entry Procedures Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4 Year 5 Year 6
1. At the time of issuing the Certificate of Eligibility individuals aged between 18 and 30 must have passed a Japanese language
proficiency test equivalent to N5 or higher or have proven Japanese language ability equivalent to N4 or higher through tests or
other methods. For individuals aged between 31 and 35, passing a Japanese language proficiency test equivalent to N3 or higher is
required.
2. Passing a Japanese language proficiency test equivalent to N4 or higher is required
(except for those who have proven Japanese language ability equivalent to N4 or higher through tests or other methods).
3. Passing a Japanese language proficiency test equivalent to N3 or higher is required.
4. By the time of application, a deep understanding of Japanese culture and typical day-to-day life in Japan is required. For example,
having acquired N2 or higher in the Japanese Language Proficiency Test, obtaining qualifications in Japanese culture (such as tea
ceremony, flower arrangement, judo, etc.), passing exams, participating in community activities or local gatherings in an ongoing
manner, and being recognized as a member of the community.
5. Passing a Japanese language proficiency test equivalent to N2 or higher is required.
3. Activities Fourth-Generation Foreign Nationals of Japanese Descent Can Engage in
Under This System
Individuals entering under this System can engage in the activities outlined below.2
(1) Activities to learn Japanese language and culture ("Language and Culture
Activities")
2These activities are legally defined as "activities aimed at understanding Japanese culture and typical day-to-day
life in Japan (including activities to learn Japanese) and activities to receive compensation within the necessary
scope to supplement the funds required for these activities."
However, "activities to receive compensation" does not include businesses defined by the Act on Control and
Improvement of Amusement Business ("Amusement Business Act"). For more details, please refer to 3(2)B.3(2) Work activities
(1) About Language and Culture Activities
Activities in this scopeinclude for example:
- Attending free Japanese language classes offered by local public
organizations every week to study Japanese.
- Attending classes such as judo or tea ceremony every week to study
Japanese culture.
- Participating in neighborhood associations or volunteer fire brigades and
regularly engaging in activities to deepen interactions with the local
community.
Additionally, these activities must be carried out continuously, at least once a
week.
(2) Regarding Work Activities
Fourth-Generation Foreign Nationals of Japanese Descent who enter Japan
under this System are allowed to work but must keep in mind the following points.
A. Engaging in activities to learn Japanese language and culture
For these individuals to work, they must be engaging in the Language and
Culture Activities mentioned in (1) above.
They may not work without engaging in Language and Culture Activities.
B. Work Content
Engaging in work for businesses defined under the Amusement Business Act
is forbidden.
- Businesses defined in Article 2, Paragraph 1 as amusement businesses.
- Businesses operating store-based sex-related businesses as defined in
Article 2, Paragraph 6, or specified amusement-providing and food and
drink-serving businesses as defined in Article 2, Paragraph 11.
- Non-store based sex-related businesses as defined in Article 2, Paragraph7.- Image distribution based sex-related businesses as defined in Article 2,
Paragraph 8.
- Store based telephone introduction businesses as defined in Article 2,
Paragraph 9.
- Non-store based telephone introduction businesses as defined in Article 2,
Paragraph 10.
C. Other Considerations
Under immigration laws, Fourth-Generation Foreign Nationals of Japanese
Descent do not have restrictions on work other than A and B above. However,
other labor-related laws and regulations apply separately.
If you wish to confirm whether there are any issues with the type of work
Fourth-Generation Foreign Nationals of Japanese Descent will be doing, please
consult the nearest regional immigration bureau or the Telephone Consultation4Service for Foreign Workers (see section 8 (3) below).
4. Procedures Fourth-Generation Foreign Nationals of Japanese Descent Need to
Complete Before Entering Japan
The procedures related to this System that these individuals need to complete before
entering Japan include:
- Securing a Supporter for Fourth-Generation Foreign Nationals of Japanese
Descent ("Supporter")
- Application for Certificate of Eligibility
- Visa application
(1) Securing a Supporter
Supporters are individuals or organizations that provide various forms of support
for free to ensure that Fourth-Generation Foreign Nationals of Japanese Descent
can smoothly carry out Language and Culture Activities.
When Fourth-Generation Foreign Nationals of Japanese Descent enter and
reside in Japan under this System, they are, in principle, required to have secured
a Supporter. Therefore, it is necessary to first find someone who will become a
Supporter. Support from a Supporter is mandatory for three years.
Thus, if a Fourth-Generation Foreign National of Japanese Descent who has
already resided in Japan for a total of three years under this System re-enters and
resides in Japan using the System, they are not required to have a Supporter.
For details about the roles of Supporter and the requirements to become one,
please see "6. About Supporters for Fourth-Generation Foreign Nationals of
Japanese Descent" and the "Guide for Supporters of Fourth-Generation Foreign
Nationals of Japanese Descent" published on the website of the Immigration Services
Agency.
(2) Application for Certificate of Eligibility
The Application for Certificate of Eligibility, which is the first step in the entry
procedures, must, in principle, be performed at a regional immigration bureau in
Japan by a Supporter acting as a proxy3 for the Fourth-Generation Foreign National
of Japanese Descent.
Specifically, the Fourth-Generation Foreign National of Japanese Descent who
intends to enter Japan must prove that they meet the entry requirements listed in
A below with the documents listed in B. Therefore, they must send the required
documents to their Supporter in advance.
A Certificate of Eligibility is a document required for the visa application. Once
3If an individual who has previously resided in Japan for a total of three years under this System re-enters and
resides in Japan using the System, support from a Supporter is not mandatory. However, if the individual wishes
to receive support from a Supporter and the Supporter pledges to provide support for free, the Supporter can act as
a proxy to apply for the Certificate of Eligibility.5it is issued, the Fourth-Generation Foreign National of Japanese Descent must
receive the certificate from their Supporter via post, email, etc.
Although the support from a Supporter must be provided for free, it is permissible
for Fourth-Generation Foreign Nationals of Japanese Descent to bear the actual
costs4 incurred during the application.
Furthermore, as mentioned in section 2 above, since the number of individuals
who can enter Japan using this System is limited to 4,000 per year, depending on
the timing, a Certificate of Eligibility may not be issued.
A. Entry Requirements
Individuals using this System must meet all the following requirements:
- Be a Fourth-Generation Foreign National of Japanese Descent.
- Be between 18 and 35 years old at the time of entering Japan.
- Possess a return ticket or sufficient funds to purchase one.
- Be likely to maintain an independent livelihood during their stay in Japan at
the time of application.
- Be in good health.
- Have good conduct.
- Be insured against death, injury, or illness during their stay in Japan.
- If between 18 and 30 years old, have a proven ability to understand basic
Japanese through testing or other methods, or have a proven ability to
understand basic Japanese to a certain extent through testing.5
- Those aged 31 to 35 must have a proven ability to understand everyday
Japanese to a certain extent through testing.
- Have secured a Supporter (except for those who have previously stayed in
Japan for a total of three years under this System).
- Not having already used this System to stay in Japan for a total of five years.6
B. Documents to Attach to the Application
(1) Documents proving the individual is a Fourth-Generation Foreign National of
Japanese Descent
- Koseki Tohon (official copy of family register) or Joseki Tohon (complete
family register) of great-grandparents (Japanese citizens)
- Marriage certificates of great-grandparents, grandparents, and parents
issued by institutions in the home country (foreign country)
4Actual costs refer to expenses such as transportation costs when the Supporter visits the regional immigration
bureau for the application, and the cost of return envelopes and stamps related to the application, provided that
the purpose and amount can be clearly stated in a bill, etc.
5Fourth-Generation Foreign Nationals of Japanese Descent who have used this System before and seek to re-enter
may need to demonstrate their examined ability to understand basic Japanese (approximately N4 level of the
Japanese Language Proficiency Test) or their ability to understand everyday Japanese to a certain extent
(approximately N3 level of the Japanese Language Proficiency Test). For more details, please contact a regional
immigration bureau.
6This period includes any time spent outside Japan with re-entry permission (including special re-entry
permission ).6- Birth certificates of grandparents, parents, and the Fourth-Generation
Foreign National of Japanese Descent issued by institutions in the home
country (foreign country)
- Certificate of recognition for the Fourth-Generation Foreign National of
Japanese Descent issued by institutions in the home country (if available)
- Certificate of acceptance of birth notification or recognition notification
for the Fourth-Generation Foreign National of Japanese Descent (only if
reported to Japanese authorities)
Note: The above documents are required to prove being a Fourth-Generation
Foreign National of Japanese Descent, but please be aware that
additional documents may be required during the review process.
If either the grandparents or parents are residing in Japan as
Japanese descendants (Second or Third Generation), in principle, not
all of the above documents but only those proving the relationship
between the Japanese descendant/s and the Fourth-Generation Foreign
National of Japanese Descent may be required.
(2) Documents proving age (between 18 and 35)
- Proof of identity (passport, ID card, driver's license, voter's card, etc.)
(3) Documents proving possession of a return ticket or sufficient funds to
purchase one and being expected to maintain an independent livelihood during
stay in Japan at the time of application
- Bank balance certificate and employment offer letter (if available), etc.
(4) Documents proving good health
- Health examination report
(5) Documents proving good conduct
- Criminal record certificate or certificate of no criminal record (issued by
the competent authority in the country of nationality or the country of
residence before entering Japan)
(6) Documents proving being insured against death, injury, or illness during stay
in Japan
- Declaration form (Attachment 1)
(7) Documents proving the ability of individuals aged 18 to 30 to understand basic
Japanese through methods other than testing 7 or to understand basic
Japanese to a certain extent through testing8
7Methods other than testing currently include having received education for at least one year at schools defined in
Article 1 of the School Education Act (excluding kindergartens), etc. (In this case, documents such as a copy of a
graduation certificate or grade transcript proving at least one year of education, or a declaration of the period of
attendance, are required as evidence of Japanese language proficiency). For more details, please contact a
regional immigration bureau.
8Results from the following tests can be used:
- Japanese Language Proficiency Test N5 or higher
- J.TEST Test of Practical Japanese level F-G (conducted by the Specified Nonprofit Corporation Nihongo
Kentei Kyokai) with a score of 250 points or higher
- Japanese Language NAT-TEST level 5 or higher (conducted by Senmon Kyoiku Publishing Co., Ltd.)7- Documents proving Japanese language proficiency
(8) Documents proving the ability of individuals aged 31 to 35 to understand
everyday Japanese to a certain extent through testing9
- Documents proving Japanese language proficiency
(9) Documents clarifying the purpose of entry and planned activities after entering
Japan
- Declaration form (Attachment 1)
(3) Visa Application
Present the Certificate of Eligibility sent by the Supporter (a copy received via
email, or other methods is acceptable) and apply for a visa at the Japanese embassy
or consulate in your country/region. For detailed procedures, please contact the
Japanese embassy or consulate.
Once the visa is issued, the pre-entry procedures related to this System are
complete.
5. Procedures Fourth-Generation Foreign Nationals of Japanese Descent Need to
Complete After Entering Japan
Procedures related to this System that Fourth-Generation Foreign Nationals of
Japanese Descent need to complete after entering Japan include:
- Notification of place of residence
- Enrollment in National Health Insurance
- Applications for extension of period of stay
Please note that after entering Japan, Fourth-Generation Foreign Nationals of
Japanese Descent are required to maintain support from their Supporter for at least a
total of three years, so please contact your Supporter upon arrival in Japan.
(1) Notification of Place of Residence
Once you have decided where to live, you must notify the local municipal office
within 14 days. Bring your residence card10, issued at the airport upon entry, for this
procedure.
(2) Enrollment in National Health Insurance
Medium to long-term residents (those with whose period of stay will exceed three
months) are required to enroll in National Health Insurance. Enrollment procedures
are conducted at the municipal office where you registered your residence, so please
bring your residence card and the designated documents defined in Article 7,
Paragraph 2 of the Ordinance for Enforcement of the Immigration Control and
Refugee Recognition Act (Ordinance of the Ministry of Justice No. 54 of 1981).
9Results from the following tests can be used:
- Japanese Language Proficiency Test N3 or higher
- J.TEST Test of Practical Japanese level D-E with a score of 500 points or higher
- Japanese Language NAT-TEST level 3 or higher
10Residence cards are issued at certain airports only. If you enter Japan through an airport that does not issue
them, your residence card will be mailed to your notified place of residence after entry.8Note that if you are enrolled in another form public health insurance, you may not
need to enroll in the National Health Insurance.
(3) Applications for Extension of Period of Stay
If you wish to continue staying beyond the period of stay granted upon entry, you
need to apply for an extension approximately three months before the expiry date at
a regional immigration bureau.
Specifically, you need to:
- Fill out an application form
- Prepare documents to attach to the application (attached documents)
- Submit the application form and attached documents to the regional
immigration bureau
- Receive your residence card
Please see sections A to D below for more details.
A. Filling out the Application Form
You need to fill out the application form for "Designated Activities U (Other)"
(Attachment 2).
B. Preparing Documents to Attach to the Application
For the application, extra documents are required to be attached to the
application form (hereinafter "Attached Documents"). The required Attached
Documents are as follows:
(A) Documents required for all applications
- Report on Status of Acquisition of Japanese Culture, etc. (Attachment 3)11
- Bank balance certificate, certificate of employment, or employment contract
- Certificate of municipal tax payment (or exemption) and tax payment
certificate (indicating total income and the amount of tax paid over one year)
- Copy of health insurance card
Note: Please submit so that the insurer number, insured person's
symbol/number cannot be seen, such as by blacking them out.
- Report on Living Conditions (Attachment 4. Please submit the document filled
out by the Supporter. Not required for Fourth-Generation Foreign Nationals
of Japanese Descent who have resided for more than a total of three years.)
(B) Documents required when intending to reside for more than one year
In addition to (A) above, a certificate from an examination of Japanese
proficiency (equivalent to JLPT N412) is required (except for those who have
already passed a test equivalent to N4 or higher at the time of entry and have
submitted the certificate, and those who have proven their ability to
11This report requires the Fourth-Generation Foreign National of Japanese Descent to describe their learning
experiences under this System and sign it.
12Results from the following tests can be used:
- Japanese Language Proficiency Test N4 or higher
- J.TEST Test of Practical Japanese Level D-E with a score of 350 points or higher
- Japanese Language NAT-TEST level 4 or higher9understand basic Japanese through testing or other methods). Please pass the
test before applying and submit the certificate as an attachment to the
application for extension of the period of stay.
(C) Documents required when intending to reside for more than three years
In addition to (A) above, a certificate from an examination of Japanese
proficiency (equivalent to JLPT N313) is required (except for those who have
already passed a test equivalent to N3 or higher at the time of entry).
Additionally, in the Report on Status of Acquisition of Japanese Culture, etc.
(Attachment 3) you must show that you are properly deepening your
understanding of Japanese culture and typical day-to-day life through your
activities in Japan.
(D) Documents required if there has been a change in the Supporter since the last
permission for extension of period of stay (not necessary for those who have
resided for more than a total of three years and do not receive support from a
Supporter, but required if they do continue to receive support)
- Pledge by the Supporter for Fourth-Generation Foreign Nationals of Japanese
Descent (Attachment 5 or 6)
- Resident certificate of the Supporter for Fourth-Generation Foreign Nationals
of Japanese Descent (in case of an individual)
- Certified copy of the organization’s registration (in case of an organization)
- Documents proving that the Supporter is an employee of the organization
- List of officers and support personnel related to the organization (Attachment7)- Reason for the change of the Supporter for Fourth-Generation Foreign
Nationals of Japanese Descent
C. Submission of the application form and Attached Documents to the regional
immigration bureau
Submit the application form and Attached Documents prepared in sections A
and B to the nearest regional immigration bureau. Please check the Immigration
Services Agency's website to find the nearest regional immigration bureau.
D. Receive your residence card
You will be contacted by the regional immigration bureau once the review is
complete, so please visit the bureau where you submitted your application. If the
extension of your period of stay is approved as a result of the review, you will
receive a new residence card.
Please prepare 4,000 yen to pay for the revenue stamp at the time of approval.
13Results from the following tests can be used:
- Japanese Language Proficiency Test N3 or higher
- J.TEST Test of Practical Japanese Level D-E with a score of 500 points or higher
- Japanese Language NAT-TEST level 3 or higher106. About Supporters for Fourth-Generation Foreign Nationals of Japanese Descent
(1) What is a Supporter for Fourth-Generation Foreign Nationals of Japanese Descent?
The period during which Fourth-Generation Foreign Nationals of Japanese
Descent can reside in Japan under the "Designated Activities" residence status
through this System is capped at a maximum of five years.
Within this limited time, these individuals are expected to engage in activities to
learn about Japanese culture, etc., to become bridges between Japan and overseas
Japanese communities. Therefore, it is necessary for them to receive appropriate
support to ensure these activities are carried out smoothly. Furthermore, since
Fourth-Generation Foreign Nationals of Japanese Descent will be living in an
environment different from their home country after entering Japan, it is desirable
for them to have someone nearby to consult with should any problems arise.
Considering these factors, this System includes "Supporters for Fourth-
Generation Foreign Nationals of Japanese Descent" who provide their support for
free to assist these individuals in entering and residing in Japan. When using this
System to enter and reside in Japan, it is required to have a Supporter that meets
the requirements.
However, if a Fourth-Generation Foreign National of Japanese Descent has
resided in Japan for a total of more than three years using this System, support
from a Supporter is no longer mandatory, taking into account their residency history
(if they wish to continue receiving support from a Supporter, it is still possible to
continue, but it must be provided for free).
(2) The Role of the Supporter
The roles expected to be fulfilled by Supporters for Fourth-Generation Foreign
Nationals of Japanese Descent after their entry are as follows:
A. Regularly contact (at least once every two months) the individual they are
supporting to assess their living conditions (focusing on the acquisition of
Japanese culture, employment status, etc.).
B. For the application for the extension of the period of stay of the Fourth-
Generation Foreign National of Japanese Descent they are supporting (except
for those who have resided for more than a total of three years), compile a
document on the living conditions assessed in A and report to the regional
immigration bureau.
C. If it is discovered during the regular contact in A that the individual is facing
problems or is involved in trouble, or if they have questions about living
conditions, provide appropriate advice as deemed necessary.
Supporters will contact you at least once every two months to check if there are
any issues with your living conditions in Japan, so please consult them if you
encounter any difficulties in your daily life.
Additionally, Fourth-Generation Foreign Nationals of Japanese Descent can
consult their Supporters at any time if they encounter difficulties during their stay11in Japan.
(3) Requirements for Supporters
Individuals who wish to become Supporters for Fourth-Generation Foreign
Nationals of Japanese Descent must meet the following requirements. For more
details, please refer to the "Guide for Supporters of Fourth-Generation Foreign
Nationals of Japanese Descent" published on the website of the Immigration
Services Agency.
A. Requirements for Individuals to become a Supporter
- Any individual living in Japan, regardless of whether they are Japanese or
foreign, can become a Supporter. However, if not a Japanese national, the
individual must be a permanent resident, special permanent resident, or
someone who has a residency status of "Spouse or Child of Japanese
National," "Spouse or Child of Permanent Resident," or "Long-Term
Resident" with a decided period of stay of more than three years and has a
residency history of more than three years.
- A Supporter can support up to three Fourth-Generation Foreign Nationals of
Japanese Descent. However, this number does not include supporting those
who have resided in Japan for more than a total of three years under this
System.
- When becoming a Supporter, you must submit a pledge and other documents
stating that you will provide support to the Fourth-Generation Foreign
National of Japanese Descent for free during their immigration procedures.
B. Requirements for organizations to become Supporters
- The organization must be a non-profit legal entity engaged in international
exchange or community service in the area where the Fourth-Generation
Foreign National of Japanese Descent resides.
- When becoming a Supporter, the organization must submit a pledge and
documents related to the organization stating that they will provide support
to the Fourth-Generation Foreign National of Japanese Descent for free
during their immigration procedures.
C. Shared requirements for individuals and organizations
- Those with convictions due to a violation of immigration laws or being
engaged in fraudulent or unjust actions related to these laws may not become
Supporters.
- Additionally, Supporters are expected to be capable of providing reliable and
appropriate support.
- The following examples disqualify individuals and organizations from
becoming Supporters:
- If it is discovered that they are affiliated with an organized crime12group14
D. Other
- If there is an intermediary between the Fourth-Generation Foreign National
of Japanese Descent and the Supporter, such mediation must be conducted
for free (including situations involving job placements being introduced).
- Furthermore, if the intermediary is involved in a job placement business, they
must be legally operating this business by obtaining suitable
permission/providing the required notifications in accordance with the
Employment Security Act.
(4) Changing Supporters
After entering Japan, the Fourth-Generation Foreign National of Japanese
Descent must receive support from a Supporter for three years. If support becomes
unavailable, you must promptly find a new Supporter, so please contact the nearest
regional immigration bureau immediately.
A list of organizations wishing to become Supporters for Fourth-Generation
Foreign Nationals of Japanese Descent is published on the Immigration Services
Agency website for reference:
http://www.moj.go.jp/isa/publications/materials/nyuukokukanri07_00166.html
Please be aware that if you fail to make an effort to find a new Supporter and
remain without support for three months, your residency status may be revoked,
and you may no longer be able to stay in Japan.
Also, if a Fourth-Generation Foreign National of Japanese Descent applies for an
extension of their period of stay at the regional immigration bureau without having
found a Supporter, their application will be denied, and they will not be able to
continue residing in Japan
7. After Completing Activities Under This System
(1) Returning Home
It is hoped that individuals who have completed a total of five years of activities
using this System will return to their home country and engage in activities to
strengthen the ties between overseas Japanese communities and Japan.
(2) Application for Change of Status of Residence
Those who have completed a total of five years of activities using this System can
14Affiliation with an organized crime group refers to individuals/organizations who meet any of the following
criteria:
1. Is a member of an organized crime group or someone who has not been a member for less than five years
as defined in Article 2, Paragraph 6 of the Act on Prevention of Unjust Acts by Organized Crime Group
Members (Act No. 77 of 1991) (hereinafter "Organized Crime Group Member").
2. A minor who does not possess the same legal capacity as an adult in business matters and whose legal
guardian falls under category 1 or 3.
3. A corporation that has among its officers anyone who falls under category 1 or 2 above.
4. Entities whose business activities are controlled by organized crime group members, etc.,
5. Entities that are at risk of employing organized crime group members, etc., in their business operations
or as assistants in their work.13continue residing in Japan by changing their residence status to "Long Term
Resident," provided they meet all the following requirements.
- Have appropriately carried out activities to learn about Japanese culture, etc.,
for a total of five years using the System.
- Have proven through testing that they understand not only everyday
Japanese but also to have a certain level of understanding of Japanese used
in a broader range of situations
- Have good conduct.
- Possess sufficient assets or skills to maintain an independent livelihood.
- Properly fulfill public obligations (tax payments and the duty to submit
notifications as defined by the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition
Act).
Those wishing to receive permission for a change of residence status to "Long
Term Resident" must apply for the change of residence status permission
approximately three months before the expiration of their current residence term
at a regional immigration bureau.
Specifically, you need to:
- Fill out an application form
- Prepare documents to attach to the application
- Submit the application form and attached documents to the regional
immigration bureau
- Receive your residence card
Please see sections A to D below for more details.
A. Filling out the Application Form
Fill out the "Long Term Resident T" application form (Attachment 8).
B. Prepare documents to attach to the application
Extra documents are required to be attached to the application form. The
required attached documents are as follows:
- Report on Status of Acquisition of Japanese Culture, etc. (Attachment 3)
- Certificate from an examination of Japanese proficiency (JLPT N2 or
equivalent15)
- Bank balance certificate, certificate of employment, or employment contract
- Certificate of municipal tax payment (or exemption) and tax payment
certificate (indicating total income and the amount of tax paid over one year)
- Copy of health insurance card
Note: Please submit so that the insurer number, insured person's
symbol/number cannot be seen, such as by blacking them out.
C. Submission of the application form and attached documents to the regional
15Results from the following tests can be used:
- Japanese Language Proficiency Test N2 or higher
- BJT Business Japanese Proficiency Test score of 400 points or higher14immigration bureau
Submit the application form and attached documents prepared in sections A
and B to the nearest regional immigration bureau. Please check the Immigration
Services Agency's website to find the nearest regional immigration bureau.
D. Receive your residence card
You will be contacted by the regional immigration bureau once the review is
complete, so please visit the bureau where you submitted your application. If the
change in status of residence approved as a result of the review, you will receive
a new residence card.
Please prepare 4,000 yen to pay for the revenue stamp at the time of approval.
8. Consultation Services
If you encounter any issues, please contact the service below that is best suited to
answer your problem.
The Immigration Services Agency has established consultation services (such as the
Immigration Information Center) at regional immigration bureaus and branch offices
nationwide to respond to various inquiries related to entry procedures and residency
procedures. Support is available in multiple languages through phone, in-person visits,
and email.
(1) Consultations Regarding Entry and Residency Procedures
For inquiries related to Supporters for Fourth-Generation Foreign Nationals of
Japanese Descent, entry, and residency procedures, please contact one of the
following:
<Phone Inquiries>
- Supported Languages:
English, Korean, Chinese, Spanish, Portuguese, Vietnamese, Filipino, Nepali,
Indonesian, Thai, Khmer (Cambodian), Burmese, Mongolian, French, Sinhala,Urdu- Phone Numbers:
Navi Dial: 0570-013904
For IP phone users: 03-5796-7112
- Reception Hours:
Monday to Friday: 8:30 to 17:15
Closed on Saturdays, Sundays, national holidays, and the New Year holiday
period
<Email Inquiries>
- Supported Languages:
Japanese, English
- Email Address:
info-tokyo@i.moj.go.jp
<In-person Inquiries>15For a list of counters, please check the following page on the Immigration
Services Agency's website.
https://www.moj.go.jp/isa/consultation/center/index.html
(2) Consultations Related to Daily Life
Prefectural and municipal governments have established consultation services for
foreigners for consultations related to daily life, so please contact them directly.
A list of these services is available on the Daily Life Support Portal for Foreign
Nationals website.
https://www.moj.go.jp/isa/content/930004512.pdf
(3) Work-Related Consultations
A. Hello Work (for finding work)
Hello Work is a nationwide service providing consultations and job placements.
For more details, please contact your nearest Hello Work.
Hello Work offers consultations in 13 languages via telephone interpretation,
including Portuguese and Spanish. Some Hello Work offices have interpreters on-
site, and others can provide consultations in foreign languages over the phone
[List of Hello Work Offices Nationwide]
Please check the following page (within the Ministry of Health, Labour and
Welfare website).
(Japanese and English) https://www.mhlw.go.jp/content/000637894.pdf
[Hello Work Offices with Interpreters]
Please check the following page (within the Ministry of Health, Labour and
Welfare website).
(Japanese) https://www.mhlw.go.jp/content/000592865.pdf
(Portuguese) https://www.mhlw.go.jp/content/11600000/000563379.pdf
[Hello Work Offices with Foreign Language Phone Consultations]
Please check one of the following pages (within the Ministry of Health, Labour
and Welfare website) for more details.
(Japanese) https://www.mhlw.go.jp/content/000673000.pdf
(Portuguese) https://www.mhlw.go.jp/content/000673009.pdf
(Spanish) https://www.mhlw.go.jp/content/000673010.pdf
B. Consultation Services for Labor Conditions (for issues related to wages, dismissal,
resignation, working hours, holidays, etc.)
Prefectural Labor Bureaus and Labor Standards Inspection Offices nationwide
assist with consultations regarding labor conditions. For more details, please
contact your nearest Labor Bureau or ask your Supporter.
Additionally, the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare has established a
Telephone Consultation Service for Foreign Workers, offering consultations in16languages such as English, Chinese, Portuguese, Spanish, Tagalog, etc. The
service provides explanations of laws and introductions to relevant organizations
for issues related to labor conditions.
[Telephone Consultation Service for Foreign Workers]
Languages Opening Days Opening Hours Phone Number
English
Mon-Fri
10:00-15:00
(Closed 12:00-
13:00)
0570-001-701
Chinese 0570-001-702
Portuguese 0570-001-703
Spanish 0570-001-704
Tagalog 0570-001-705
Vietnamese 0570-001-706
Burmese Mon 0570-001-707
Nepali Tue, Wed, Thu 0570-001-708
Korean Thu, Fri 0570-001-709ThaiWed
0570-001-712
Indonesian 0570-001-715
Cambodian 0570-001-716
Mongolian Fri 0570-001-718
(4) Human Rights Consultations
For consultations related to discrimination, abuse, power harassment, and other
human rights issues, please contact one of the following services.
A. Foreign Language Human Rights Hotline
- Supported Languages:
English, Chinese, Korean, Filipino, Portuguese, Vietnamese, Nepali, Spanish,
Indonesian, Thai
- Phone Numbers:
0570-090911
- Reception Hours:
Monday to Friday: 9:00-17:00
Closed on Saturdays, Sundays, national holidays, and the New Year holiday
period
B. Consultation Services
Human Rights Protection Divisions at Prefectural Legal Affairs Bureaus and
District Legal Affairs Bureaus can address to human rights consultations in
foreign languages (covering approximately 80 languages).
(5) Legal Consultations
For consultations regarding debts, labor, accidents, etc., please contact the
following service.17Houterasu (Japan Legal Support Center) Multilingual Information Service
- Supported Languages:
English, Chinese, Korean, Spanish, Portuguese, Vietnamese, Tagalog, Nepali,
Thai, and Indonesian
- Phone Number:
0570-078377
- Reception Hours:
Monday to Friday: 9:00-17:00
Closed on Saturdays, Sundays, national holidays, and the New Year holiday
period
(6) General Consultations
Foreign Residents Support Center (FRESC)
Located in Shinjuku, Tokyo, the center exists to further promote the creation of a
society with multicultural coexistence by improving societal conditions. Related
ministries and agencies from four ministries and eight organizations work together
on one floor to provide consultations on residency status, labor, human rights, legal
issues, and support for employment.
- Phone Number: Navi Dial 0570-011000
For IP phone users: 03-5363-3013
- Reception Hours: Monday to Friday 9:00-17:00
Closed on Saturdays, Sundays, national holidays, and the New
Year holiday period
For more details, please see:
https://www.moj.go.jp/isa/support/fresc/fresc01.html
9. If You Need Help
Q1. I want to change jobs, but my employer, who is also my Supporter, won't allow it.
What should I do?
A. Fourth-Generation Foreign Nationals of Japanese Descent have the right to
change jobs. Prohibiting job changes is a violation of human rights, so please
consult the nearest regional immigration bureau or the Immigration Information
Center.
Q2. My Supporter has asked me to hand over my passport and residence card. Do I
have to?
A. You should keep your passport and residence card in your possession. Do not
hand them over, even if requested by your Supporter. You are also required to
carry your residence card with you at all times. Failure to do so may result in a
fine.18Q3. My employer is not paying me my wages as per our employment contract. Where
can I seek advice?
A. Please consult the Consultation Services for Labor Conditions section on pages
15 to 16 of this guide, section 8(3)B.
Q4. Is it possible to change my Supporter after entering Japan?
A. Yes, it is possible. You will need to submit the relevant documents related to the
Supporter for Fourth-Generation Foreign Nationals of Japanese Descent at your
next application for an extension of the period of stay (refer to section 5(3)B(D)
above).
To find a new Supporter, please refer to the list of organizations wishing to
become Supporters for Fourth-Generation Foreign Nationals of Japanese Descent
on the Immigration Services Agency website.
(Further Acceptance System for Fourth-Generation Foreign Nationals of
Japanese Descent on the Immigration Services Agency's website)
http://www.moj.go.jp/isa/publications/materials/nyuukokukanri07_00166.html
Q5. I was asked to pay a fee by my Supporter. Do I have to comply?
A. Support provided by Supporters for Fourth-Generation Foreign Nationals of
Japanese Descent is supposed to be free of charge, so you do not need to pay any
fees.
If you are asked to make any payments related to the support, please consult
your nearest regional immigration bureau or the Immigration Information Center.
Note that actual costs incurred in the Application for Certificate of Eligibility
are not included in the free support.
Q6. I am currently living in Japan with a "Student" residency status. Can I change to
the "Designated Activities" residency status for Fourth-Generation Foreign
Nationals of Japanese Descent while in Japan?
A. You can apply for a change of residency status if you wish. However, you must
meet certain requirements, such as Japanese language proficiency and finding a
Supporter.
Q7. I want to live in Japan for more than five years. Is there any way to do this?
A. If you reside in Japan for a total of five years using this System and meet certain
criteria, such as achieving N2 level Japanese language proficiency, you may be
eligible to change your residency status to "Long Term Resident" and continue to
reside in Japan.
Furthermore, if you find employment in Japan, meet certain conditions such as
graduating from a university in your home country, or marry a Japanese national19while residing under this System, you may be able to change your residency status
and continue residing in Japan. For more details, please consult your nearest
regional immigration bureau or similar authority.