Japan has 29 residence statuses. They are categorized into Resident, Work-permitted, and Non-work-permitted
Resident Status
These statuses are granted based on personal status or family relationships, not on a specific activity. Permission is based on who you are or your relationship, not on a particular job.
Permanent Resident
Long-term residence without restrictions on activities.
Spouse or Child of Japanese National
Residence status for spouse or child of a Japanese citizen.
Spouse or Child of Permanent Resident
Residence status for spouse or child of a Permanent Resident.
Long-term Resident
Permission granted for long-term settlement for specific reasons.
Activity-based Status of Residence
These statuses are tied to specific activities you are allowed to engage in while staying in Japan. Permision is based on what you do in Japan.
Work-permitting Statuses
Engineer / Specialist in Humanities / International Services
Professional work in engineering, humanities or international business.
Intra-company Transferee
Employees transferred to a Japanese branch of their company.
Care Worker
Work as a certified care worker.
Skilled Labor
Work in designated skilled occupations.
Highly Skilled Professional
Points-based system for advanced professionals.
Specified Skilled Worker
Work in sectors facing labor shortages.
Technical Intern Training
Acquire skills through on-the-job training.
Entertainer
Performances and entertainment activities.
Medical Services
Work as a licensed medical professional.
Researcher
Conduct research at public or private institutions.
Instructor
Teach at elementary, junior high, or high schools.
Legal/Accounting Services
Legal or accounting work requiring Japanese license.
Business Manager
Start or manage a business in Japan.
Diplomat
Diplomatic activities on behalf of foreign governments.
Official
Public duties for foreign governments.
Professor
Teach or research at universities or equivalent.
Artist
Cultural or artistic activities generating income.
Religious Activities
Missionary or religious work.
Journalist
News coverage and reporting activities.
Non-working Statuses
These statuses do not allow employment in principle. Limited part-time can be allowed with extra permission.
Cultural Activities
Engage in academic or artistic cultural activities without income.
Short-term Stay
Stay for tourism, business meetings or visiting relatives up to 90 days.
Student
Study at a Japanese educational institution (limited part-time work possible).
Trainee
Receive training without employment.
Dependent
Spouse or child of a foreign resident in Japan (limited part-time work possible).
Designated Activities
This category includes a wide range of individually approved cases such as working holidays, internships, and other activities designated by the Immigration Services Agency of Japan.