This article is a translation of the Japanese original. Where the two differ, the Japanese version prevails. Read the Japanese original（日本語版を読む）
Even for a relative of a 永住者, it is in principle not possible to bring a stepmother who is not a blood relative to Japan under 在留資格「定住者」 (Long-Term Resident). This is because, as a relative of a 永住者, 「定住者」 is intended for that person's spouse and children. Depending on the individual circumstances, it is conceivable that a status of residence such as 「特定活動」 might be allowed instead, but the requirements tend to be screened strictly.
A 永住者 wants to bring to Japan the stepmother who was the second wife of their late father.
In principle, no. As a relative of a 永住者, 「定住者」 is intended for the spouse and children.
To give the conclusion first: even for a relative of a 永住者, it is in principle not possible to bring a stepmother who is not a blood relative to Japan under 在留資格「定住者」 (Long-Term Resident).
This is because, as a relative of a 永住者, 「定住者」 is understood to be intended for that person's spouse and children.
This applies only to bringing someone over as a relative of a 永住者. The status of residence 「定住者」 itself has several other categories, such as people of Japanese descent, and a parent supporting a biological child of a Japanese national. Please also check whether you or your stepmother might fall into one of those other categories.
It is also conceivable, depending on the individual situation, that another status of residence such as 「特定活動」 might be allowed.
It is sometimes permitted, as an exception, where there are special circumstances calling for humanitarian consideration.
Even for a relative who is not a blood relative, 「特定活動」 is sometimes permitted where humanitarian consideration is needed, or where there are special circumstances. One example would be where the stepmother is elderly, finds it difficult to live on her own, and has a strong need to be supported by the enquirer.
In that case, you need to show the following points in concrete terms.
If the stepmother herself intends to carry out some activity in Japan (医療滞在, a stay for medical treatment, for example), one option is to look at a different status of residence that matches that activity. However, simply wanting to live in the same home would make another status of residence difficult to obtain. Where there are unusual humanitarian circumstances, the possibility of some consideration cannot be ruled out, but such cases are very much the exception.
Mainly material that shows objectively the need for support, the ability to support, and the bond between the two of them.
First, consult the 地方出入国在留管理局 (Regional Immigration Services Bureau) with jurisdiction over your area, and also have a specialist look at your case.
The most important step is to speak directly to the 地方出入国在留管理局 with jurisdiction over your area, explain your specific situation, and check what documents would be needed and whether there is any possibility.
Bringing over a relative who is not a blood relative is difficult within the usual framework of 「家族滞在」, and even where the application is made under 「特定活動」, the requirements tend to be screened strictly. We recommend also consulting a specialist, such as a gyoseishoshi registered to submit applications, and having them look closely at the options open to you.
In principle, no. This is because, as a relative of a 永住者, 「定住者」 is understood to be intended for that person's spouse and children.
No. Bringing over a relative who is not a blood relative is difficult within the usual framework of 「家族滞在」, so you would look at applying under 「特定活動」.
Where humanitarian consideration is needed, or where there are special circumstances. You need to show in concrete terms that the person would find it difficult to live unless she is supported, and that you have sufficient ability to support her.
First, speak directly to the 地方出入国在留管理局 with jurisdiction over your area and check what documents are needed and whether there is any possibility. Please also consult a specialist, such as a gyoseishoshi registered to submit applications.
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This page is a translation of the Japanese original. Where the two differ, the Japanese version prevails.