Guide for Supporters of 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. What is a Supporter for Fourth-Generation Foreign Nationals of Japanese Descent?2
4. Requirements to Become a Supporter............................................................................. 3
(1) Requirements for Individuals to Become Supporters............................................... 3
(2) Requirements for Organizations to Become Supporters .......................................... 4
(3) Shared Requirements for Individuals and Organizations ....................................... 4
(4) Other Considerations.................................................................................................. 5
5. The Role of the Supporter ................................................................................................ 5
(1) Support Before the Entry of the Fourth-Generation Foreign National of Japanese
Descent .............................................................................................................................. 5
(2) Support After the Entry of the Fourth-Generation Foreign National of Japanese
Descent .............................................................................................................................. 6
(3) Contacting the Regional Immigration Bureau, etc................................................... 7
6. Application for Certificate of Eligibility ....................................................................... 7
(1) Fill out the Application Form ..................................................................................... 8
(2) Compile the Documents to be Submitted with the Application............................... 8
(3) Submit the Application Form and Attached Documents to the Regional
Immigration Bureau....................................................................................................... 10
(4) Send the Certificate of Eligibility to the Fourth-Generation Foreign National of
Japanese Descent............................................................................................................ 10
7. Consultation Services ..................................................................................................... 10
(1) Immigration Information Center ............................................................................. 10
(2) Regional Immigration Bureaus.................................................................................11
8. Other................................................................................................................................ 12
9. Q&A for Supporters of Fourth-Generation Foreign Nationals of Japanese Descent. 15
Development and Revision History
April 27, 2018 - Established December 28, 2023 - Revised
October 10, 2018 - Revised
December 5, 2018 - Revised
January 21, 2021 - Revised
March 29, 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 the 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.1
There are no nationality restrictions for Fourth-Generation Foreign Nationals of
Japanese Descent who are allowed to enter under this System, but the number2 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
1For details on the requirements for a Fourth-Generation Foreign National of Japanese Descent to enter and
reside in Japan, please see the Guide for Fourth-Generation Foreign Nationals of Japanese Descent.
2The 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.2daily lives in Japan. Therefore, taking into account their continued residence in Japan
and 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. 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3support 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 that these individuals are supported by a Supporter
for a total of three years.
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).
4. Requirements to Become a Supporter
Individuals who wish to become Supporters for Fourth-Generation Foreign
Nationals of Japanese Descent must meet the following requirements.3
(1) Requirements for Individuals to Become Supporters
- 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 (for more
details, see "6. Application for Certificate of Eligibility.")
3Individuals who wish to become Supporters for Fourth-Generation Foreign Nationals of Japanese Descent newly
attempting to enter Japan must act as representatives for these individuals at the regional immigration bureau,
handling the application for the issuance of Certificate of Eligibility.
If 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.
Those who wish to become Supporters for individuals who have already entered Japan must submit necessary
documents such as a pledge when the Fourth-Generation Foreign National of Japanese Descent applies for the
extension of their period of stay.4(2) 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.
- Corporations aiming to economically profit for their members and distribute
the organization's benefits among members do not meet this requirement.
- If the main activities of the organization are not aimed at international
exchange or community service, it will not qualify as engaging in activities
for the purpose of international exchange or community service.
- Engaging in activities for the purpose of community service means
conducting activities aimed at improving the welfare of the local community,
and activities aimed solely at benefiting the organization's own members are
not included.4
- 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 (for more details, see "6. Application for Certificate
of Eligibility.")
(3) 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.
- Those who have been sentenced for violating immigration-related laws or
labor laws, etc., cannot become Supporters.
- Even if not sentenced, activities such as engaging in illegal employment
activities defined in the Immigration Control Act or using forged documents
in immigration procedures are included as "fraudulent or unjust actions."
- Additionally, Supporters are expected to be capable of providing reliable and
appropriate support.
- The following examples disqualify individuals and organizations from
becoming Supporters.
- Being under 18 years old
- If, as a Supporter, there have been instances where reports to the
authorities were not appropriately made, indicating that the
activities as a Supporter were not properly conducted
- If it is discovered that they are affiliated with an organized crime
4For example, public interest incorporated foundations primarily engaged in international exchange, chambers of
commerce and industry defined by law as aiming "to comprehensively improve and develop commerce and
industry within their district and thereby contribute to the general welfare of society," can become Supporters as
organizations.
However, agricultural cooperatives, fisheries cooperatives, and business cooperatives defined by law as aiming
"to serve their members or associates to the utmost through their operations" cannot become Supporters.
If you wish to confirm whether other forms of organizations can become Supporters, please inquire at the
nearest regional immigration bureau.5group5
(4) Other Considerations
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.
Therefore, for example, if you are an employer of a Fourth-Generation Foreign
National of Japanese Descent or if you have paid an intermediary for the
introduction of a Fourth-Generation Foreign National of Japanese Descent, you
cannot become their Supporter.
5. The Role of the Supporter
Individuals who wish to become Supporters for Fourth-Generation Foreign
Nationals of Japanese Descent are required to provide all the support listed from (1)
to (3) below for free.
The role of the Supporter will continue until the Fourth-Generation Foreign
National of Japanese Descent returns to their home country or until the Supporter
contacts the regional immigration bureau stating that it is difficult to continue
providing support.
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).
(1) Support Before the Entry of the Fourth-Generation Foreign National of Japanese
Descent
Act as a proxy6 for the Fourth-Generation Foreign National of Japanese Descent,
conducting pre-entry procedures at the regional immigration bureau.
5Affiliation 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.
6If 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 Application for Certificate of Eligibility.6- Specifically, this includes applying for the issuance of Certificate of Eligibility
which is necessary for the Fourth-Generation Foreign National of Japanese
Descent to process their visa overseas, at the regional immigration bureau. -
For details, see "6. Application for Certificate of Eligibility".
(2) Support After the Entry of the Fourth-Generation Foreign National of Japanese
Descent
A. Regularly contact (at least once every two months) the individual you are
supporting to assess their living conditions (focusing on the acquisition of
Japanese culture, employment status, etc.).
- Regularly check whether the individual is able to smoothly engage in the
acquisition of Japanese culture, etc.
- It is desirable that these regular checks be conducted through direct
meetings or conversations over the phone to accurately assess any living
issues the individual might face.
B. For the application for the extension of the period of stay for 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.
- The Fourth-Generation Foreign National of Japanese Descent will apply for
the extension of their period of stay at the regional immigration bureau once
every six months or once a year.
- For this application for the extension of the period of stay, documents created
by the Supporter for Fourth-Generation Foreign Nationals of Japanese
Descent about their living conditions are required.
- Specifically, you will need to fill in the necessary information in Japanese on
the form in Attachment 1 and provide it to the Fourth-Generation Foreign
National of Japanese Descent.
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.
- For example, you are expected to provide advice as needed, like in the
following cases:
Example 1: If a Fourth-Generation Foreign National of Japanese Descent
seems to be looking for a place to learn Japanese, guide them
to free Japanese language classes offered by local governments.
Example 2: If you learn that a Fourth-Generation Foreign National of
Japanese Descent has been a victim of burglary, advise them to
contact the police, and if necessary, accompany them to the
police station.
Example 3: If there is a consultation about not feeling well, tell them where7the nearest clinic is and, if necessary, accompany them there.
(3) Contacting the Regional Immigration Bureau, etc.
A. If it becomes difficult to provide support, promptly contact your regional
immigration bureau.
- If a Supporter can no longer provide support to a Fourth-Generation
Foreign National of Japanese Descent, it is necessary to inform the
Fourth-Generation Foreign National of Japanese Descent (excepting
those who have resided for a total of more than three years) that they need
to find a new Supporter, so promptly contact the nearest regional
immigration bureau if you can no longer provide support.
- Contacting the immigration bureau to resign as a Supporter because you
can no longer provide support will not result in any penalty for the
Supporter (however, depending on the circumstances leading to the
resignation, it may be that you cannot become a Supporter in the future).
- Even if the regional immigration bureau is informed that a Supporter can
no longer provide support, it does not mean that the Fourth-Generation
Foreign National of Japanese Descent will immediately have to leave
Japan.7
- If a Supporter can no longer provide support and decides to resign, they
must promptly submit a resignation notification form (Attachment 2) to
the nearest regional immigration bureau.
B. If the regional immigration bureau inquires about the living conditions of the
Fourth-Generation Foreign National of Japanese Descent being supported,
respond to the inquiry.
6. Application for Certificate of Eligibility
The application for the Certificate of Eligibility must be conducted by a Supporter,
acting as a proxy for the Fourth-Generation Foreign National of Japanese Descent
attempting to enter Japan using this System, at the nearest regional immigration
bureau.
Specifically, the following actions must be taken for the application for the
Certificate of Eligibility:
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 costs8
incurred during the application.
- Fill out the application form
- Compile the documents (hereinafter "Attached Documents") to be submitted
7However, if the individual applies for an extension of their period of stay at the regional immigration bureau
without having found a Supporter, their application will be denied.
8Actual 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.8with the application
- Submit the application form and Attached Documents to the regional
immigration bureau
- Send the Certificate of Eligibility to the Fourth-Generation Foreign National of
Japanese Descent
Please see sections (1) to (4) below for more details.
(1) Fill out the Application Form
You need to fill out the application form for "Designated Activities U (Other)"
(Attachment 3).
(2) Compile the Documents to be Submitted with the Application
Gather the Attached Documents to be submitted with the application, received
from the Fourth-Generation Foreign National of Japanese Descent, or prepare them
yourself.
In principle, the documents to be received from the Fourth-Generation Foreign
National of Japanese Descent and the documents to be prepared by the Supporter
are as outlined below.
Please note that if you submit documents created in a foreign language,
translations must also be submitted.
A. Documents to be received from the Fourth-Generation Foreign National of
Japanese Descent
The documents required from the Fourth-Generation Foreign National of
Japanese Descent for the Application for Certificate of Eligibility are as follows:
(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)
- 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9all 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 4)
(7) Documents proving the ability of individuals aged 18 to 30 to understand basic
Japanese through methods other than testing 9 or to understand basic
Japanese to a certain extent through testing10Documents proving Japanese
language proficiency
(8) Documents proving the ability of individuals aged 31 to 35 to understand
everyday Japanese to a certain extent through testing11
- Documents proving Japanese language proficiency
(9) Documents clarifying the purpose of entry and planned activities after entering
Japan
- Declaration form (Attachment 4)
B. Documents to be prepared by the person becoming the Supporter for Fourth-
Generation Foreign Nationals of Japanese Descent
- Pledge by the Supporter for Fourth-Generation Foreign Nationals of
9Methods 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.
10Results 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.)
11Results from the following tests can be used:
- Japanese Language Proficiency Test N3
- 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10Japanese 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
(for organizations)
- List of officers and support personnel related to the organization
(Attachment 7)
- Documents proving that the main activities of the organization are aimed
at international exchange or community service (in case of an organization)
(3) Submit the Application Form and Attached Documents to the Regional Immigration
Bureau
Submit the application form and Attached Documents prepared in sections (1) and
(2) to the nearest regional immigration bureau.
Please check the Immigration Services Agency's website to find the nearest
regional immigration bureau.
Please be aware that envelopes and postage necessary for sending the Certificate
of Eligibility from the regional immigration bureau must be prepared.
(4) Send the Certificate of Eligibility to the Fourth-Generation Foreign National of
Japanese Descent
Once the application for is approved, the regional immigration bureau will issue
the Certificate of Eligibility.
The Certificate of Eligibility is necessary for the individual to apply for a visa at
the Japanese embassy or consulate in their country of residence.
Once you receive the Certificate of Eligibility, please send it to the Fourth-
Generation Foreign National of Japanese Descent.
7. Consultation Services
If you have any questions about this System, please inquire at the services listed
in (1) or (2).
(1) Immigration Information Center
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.
<Phone Inquiries>
- Supported Languages:
Japanese, English, Korean, Chinese, Spanish, Portuguese, Vietnamese, Filipino,
Nepali, Indonesian, Thai, Khmer (Cambodian), Burmese, Mongolian, French,11Sinhala, Urdu
- Phone Number
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>
For 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) Regional Immigration Bureaus
- Sapporo Regional Immigration Bureau Inspection Department
Jurisdiction: Hokkaido
Phone number: 0570-003259 (Department number: 1103#)
- Sendai Regional Immigration Bureau Inspection Department
Jurisdiction: Aomori, Iwate, Miyagi, Akita, Yamagata, Fukushima
Phone number: 022-256-6073
- Tokyo Regional Immigration Bureau Permanent Residence Inspection
Department
Jurisdiction: Ibaraki, Tochigi, Gunma, Saitama, Chiba, Tokyo, Kanagawa,
Niigata, Yamanashi, Nagano
Phone number: 0570-034259 (Department number: 610)
- Tokyo Regional Immigration Bureau Yokohama Branch Office Business and
Employment /Permanent Residence Inspection Department
Jurisdiction: Kanagawa
Phone number: 0570-045259 (Department number: 20)
- Nagoya Regional Immigration Bureau Permanent Residence Inspection
Department
Jurisdiction: Toyama, Ishikawa, Fukui, Gifu, Shizuoka, Aichi, Mie12Phone number: 0570-052259 (Department number: 610#)
- Osaka Regional Immigration Bureau Permanent Residence Inspection
Department
Jurisdiction: Shiga, Kyoto, Osaka, Hyogo, Nara, Wakayama
Phone number: 0570-064259 (Department number: 220)
- Osaka Regional Immigration Bureau Kobe Branch Office Inspection
Department
Jurisdiction: Hyogo
Phone number: 078-391-6378
- Hiroshima Regional Immigration Bureau Business and Employment
/Permanent Residence Inspection Department
Jurisdiction: Tottori, Shimane, Okayama, Hiroshima, Yamaguchi
Phone number: 082-221-4412 (Department number: 2)
- Takamatsu Regional Immigration Bureau Inspection Department
Jurisdiction: Tokushima, Kagawa, Ehime, Kochi
Phone number: 087-822-5851
- Fukuoka Regional Immigration Bureau Business and Employment /Permanent
Residence Inspection Department
Jurisdiction: Fukuoka, Saga, Nagasaki, Kumamoto, Oita, Miyazaki, Kagoshima
Phone number: 092-831-4139
- Fukuoka Regional Immigration Bureau Naha Branch Office Inspection
Department
Jurisdiction: Okinawa
Phone number: 098-832-4186
8. Other
In supporting Fourth-Generation Foreign Nationals of Japanese Descent, it's
conceivable that you may receive questions across various areas such as day-to-day
life, labor, human rights, and law.
To respond to these questions, look over the following consultation services in
advance and be prepared to show them to the individual as needed.
[Consultations Related to Daily Life]
- List of Consultation Services in the Community
A list of services for consultations related to daily life for foreigners, set up
and operated by each municipality is available.13For details, please check the Daily Life Support Portal for Foreign Nationals
website.
https://www.moj.go.jp/isa/content/930004512.pdf
[Consultations Related to Finding Work]
- Hello Work
Please check the following page (within the Ministry of Health, Labor and
Welfare website).
(Japanese and English) https://www.mhlw.go.jp/content/000637894.pdf
Note: 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
[Hello Work Offices with Interpreters]
Please check the following page (within the Ministry of Health, Labor 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,
Labor 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
[Work-Related Consultations]
- Prefectural Labor Bureaus / Labor Standards Inspection Offices
Location: TEL:
Note: The Prefectural Labor Bureaus and Labor Standards Inspection
Offices nationwide provide consultations on labor conditions. For more
details, please contact your nearest Labor Bureau.
Additionally, the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare has established
a Telephone Consultation Service for Foreign Workers, offering
consultations in six languages including English, Chinese, Portuguese,
Spanish, Tagalog, and Vietnamese. The service provides explanations of14laws 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
[Human Rights Consultations]
- Foreign Language Human Rights Hotline
TEL: 0570-090911
(Monday to Friday: 9:00 to 17:00, closed on Saturdays, Sundays, holidays, and
New Year holidays)
[Legal Consultations]
- Houterasu (Japan Legal Support Center) Multilingual Information Service
TEL: 0570-078377
(Monday to Friday: 9:00 to 17:00, closed on Saturdays, Sundays, holidays, and
New Year holidays)
[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15Closed 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. Q&A for Supporters of Fourth-Generation Foreign Nationals of Japanese Descent
Q1. I am considering becoming a Supporter for a Fourth-Generation Foreign National
of Japanese Descent, but I have no particular acquaintance with them. Can I still
become a Supporter?
A. Yes, it's possible to become a Supporter. However, it's advisable to establish
sufficient communication with them beforehand.
Q2. I am considering becoming a Supporter for a Fourth-Generation Foreign National
of Japanese Descent. To what extent do I need to be responsible for their actions?
A. The role expected of Supporters is limited to the scope outlined in 5 (1) to (3).
Responsibilities beyond that scope, such as providing housing, covering food or
medical expenses, or paying compensation for any trouble caused by them, are
not required.
Q3. I am considering becoming a Supporter for four siblings who are Fourth-
Generation Foreign Nationals of Japanese Descent. Does the limit of supporting
up to three individuals apply in this case?
A. An individual can support up to three Fourth-Generation Foreign Nationals of
Japanese Descent.
Therefore, you will need to find at least one more Supporter, but those who have
resided for a total of more than three years do not count towards this limit.
There is no limit on the number of Fourth-Generation Foreign Nationals of
Japanese Descent that an organization can support.
Q4. I am willing to become a Supporter, but if I fail to fulfill my role due to being busy
with work, can I be dismissed as a Supporter?
A. You will not be dismissed, but your performance as a Supporter may be reviewed
during applications for the extension of the period of stay.
If a Supporter can no longer provide support (excepting those who have resided
for a total of more than three years), it's necessary to inform the Fourth-
Generation Foreign National of Japanese Descent that they need to find a new
Supporter, so please fill out the resignation notification form (Attachment 2) and
promptly contact the nearest regional immigration bureau if you can no longer
provide support.
Q5. I encourage the Fourth-Generation Foreign National of Japanese Descent to16participate in Japanese language classes and learn about Japanese culture, but
they refuse due to being busy with work. What should I do?
A. First, explain the purpose of this System to the individual. If the issue is not
resolved, please consult the nearest regional immigration bureau.
Q6. Can I keep their passport and residence card to prevent them from changing jobs?
A. Keeping their passport and residence card against their will constitutes a
violation of human rights, so please allow them to keep these documents. They
also have the right to change jobs and prohibiting them from doing so is also a
violation of human rights.
Q7. What should I do if I lose contact with the Fourth-Generation Foreign National of
Japanese Descent?
A. Please contact the nearest regional immigration bureau.
Q8. What should I do if I have a falling out with the individual and want to quit being
a Supporter?
A. Please consult the nearest regional immigration bureau before deciding to quit.
If you decide to quit, you must promptly contact the nearest regional immigration
bureau, and the individual (except for those who have resided for a total of more
than three years) will need to promptly find a new Supporter, so please also
advise them to consult the nearest regional immigration bureau.