Refugee Recognition / Complementary Protection
People in Japan seeking protection because they face persecution or serious harm if returned home.
The Refugee Recognition / Complementary Protection is a Japanese humanitarian & refugee visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (No application fee) and processing time (~several months to a few years), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Refugee Recognition / Complementary Protection is for
People in Japan seeking protection because they face persecution or serious harm if returned home.
Recognised refugees usually receive Long-Term Resident status and can later apply for PR.
Refugee Recognition / Complementary Protection - eligibility criteria
- Well-founded fear of persecution on a Convention ground, or
- Risk of serious harm qualifying for complementary protection
- Present in Japan and apply to the immigration authorities
- Provide credible evidence of the risk faced
Refugee Recognition / Complementary Protection cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Refugee Recognition / Complementary Protection (Japan) is No application fee, with an indicative processing time of ~several months to a few years. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at Immigration Services Agency of Japan.
| Type | Protection |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Application to the Immigration Services Agency inside Japan |
| Length of stay | Status of residence granted on recognition (typically Long-Term Resident) |
| Work rights | Permitted once recognised (or with work permission during processing in some cases) |
| Study rights | Study allowed once recognised |
| Government fee | No application fee |
| Processing time | ~several months to a few years |
| Route to PR | Recognised refugees usually receive Long-Term Resident status and can later apply for PR. |
Pathway & next steps
Recognised refugees usually receive Long-Term Resident status and can later apply for PR.
Many applicants also compare Long-Term Resident · Long-Term Resident. Run a free VisaChief check to see which Japanese route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Refugee Recognition / Complementary Protection pitfalls we fix
Refugee Recognition / Complementary Protection - frequently asked questions
How much does the Refugee Recognition / Complementary Protection cost?
The Refugee Recognition / Complementary Protection government fee is No application fee. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at Immigration Services Agency of Japan before applying.
How long does the Refugee Recognition / Complementary Protection take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~several months to a few years. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Refugee Recognition / Complementary Protection lead to permanent residence?
Recognised refugees usually receive Long-Term Resident status and can later apply for PR.
Can I work on the Refugee Recognition / Complementary Protection?
Work rights: Permitted once recognised (or with work permission during processing in some cases).
Who can apply for the Refugee Recognition / Complementary Protection?
People in Japan seeking protection because they face persecution or serious harm if returned home.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Japan government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- Immigration Services Agency of Japan - official Japan immigration authority