Types of Residence Status 2026 (Work, Study & Permanent Visa Guide)
- Residence status (visa) types differ depending on your purpose of stay, and the scope of work allowed varies greatly between them.
- This article outlines the main categories of residence status - work-based, status-based, student/dependent, and permanent residence - and their features.
- It also touches on the general conditions for obtaining permanent residence (in principle, 10 years or more of residence, among other requirements).
- The types and requirements of residence status can change, and individual cases require individual judgment. For the latest information, check official sources from the Immigration Services Agency or consult a specialist.
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Open the Residence Reminder →To stay in Japan you need a residence status (visa) that matches your purpose. The scope of work allowed differs greatly by type. For detailed requirements of each work-based status, see the Japan work visa types guide.
① Work-based Statuses (job-type restricted)
| Status | Who it's for | Work scope |
|---|---|---|
| Engineer / Humanities / Int'l Services | IT, accounting, translation and other professionals | Professional work only |
| Specified Skilled Worker (i) | 14 fields incl. caregiving, manufacturing | Designated field, up to 5 years |
| Specified Skilled Worker (ii) | Transition from SSW (i) | Designated field, renewable indefinitely |
| Highly Skilled Professional (i)/(ii) | 70+ points | Almost unrestricted, many privileges |
| Business Manager | Company owners and executives | Management work only |
If you want to set up and run a company in Japan to obtain the "Business Manager" status, see our guide to starting a company and obtaining a Business Manager visa.
② Status-based (no work restriction)
- Permanent Resident: Granted after 10+ years; no restrictions
- Spouse of Japanese National: Married to a Japanese national; no restrictions
- Long-term Resident: Nikkei, refugees, etc.; no restrictions
③ Student & Dependent
- Student: University, vocational school, etc. Part-time work up to 28 hours/week with a work permit
- Dependent: Family of a worker. Part-time work up to 28 hours/week with a work permit (see dependent visa for details)
④ Requirements for Permanent Residency
- 10+ years of continuous residence (5+ years working)
- Good conduct
- Ability to support yourself financially
- No unpaid taxes or social insurance premiums
FAQ
🏢 For employers hiring foreign workers Our service
Estimate the cost of hiring "Specified Skilled Worker" talent for free — just pick industry, headcount, and region (no sign-up). Operated by MRI Co., Ltd.
Estimate hiring costs (free) →※Site and consultation are in Japanese. For questions about your residence status, please use the public window below.
📌 Where to get help with your residence status
For questions about changing or renewing your residence status or period of stay, please contact the Immigration Services Agency (Foreign Residents Information Center) or your local municipal office.
Immigration Services Agency (official) →Ask our AI Concierge
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