The new residency program introduced last year to give fourth-generation descendants of Japanese overseas opportunities to live and work in Japan has raised hopes the government will ease the conditions to let family members come along — a privilege afforded to third-generation descendants.

To qualify for the program, which started on July 1, fourth-generation descendants must be between 18 and 30 years old and have a certain level of Japanese ability, among other conditions. Applicants who satisfy the requirements can stay for up to five years.

Previously, fourth-generation descendants were allowed to stay in Japan if they were single, under 20 and living with their third-generation parents. Second- and third-generation descendants are granted long-stay visas and can work freely.