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Japan Life Guide
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Visa & Residence Status

Renewal, change, and permanent residency applications

Complete guide to managing your visa status in Japan, from renewal to applying for permanent residency.

⏱️Time Required: 2–4 weeks
💴Cost: ¥4,000 (most visa types)
📍Location: Regional Immigration Services Bureau
🔗Official Website

⚠️Warning

  • •If your visa expires while your application is pending, you may work for up to 2 months past expiry.
  • •Overstaying your visa (beyond the grace period) is a serious offense — deportation risk.

📋Step-by-Step Guide

1

Check your current visa expiration date

Your residence card (在留カード) shows your status expiration. Renewal must be filed at least 3 months before expiry for work visas.

💡 Tip: Download the Immigration Services Agency app to track your status.
2

Prepare required documents

Gather your passport, residence card, photos (4×3cm), application form, and employer/school documents depending on your visa type.

⚠️ Warning: Documents in foreign languages must include certified Japanese translations.
3

Submit at the Regional Immigration Services Bureau

Visit your nearest Immigration Bureau or submit online via the Immigration Portal. Processing takes 2–4 weeks on average.

💡 Tip: Book an appointment online to avoid long queues.
4

Receive your new Residence Card

After approval, a notification postcard is sent. Bring it and your passport to the bureau to receive your new residence card.

5

Update your residence card at city hall

If your address has changed, update it at your local city hall within 14 days.

💡 Tip: The new residence card is valid for 1 or 3 years depending on your status.

💡Helpful Tips

  • ✓The online renewal system (Immigration Portal) is available in English.
  • ✓You can check your application status online using the application number.
  • ✓Some visa types require a skills examination or Japanese language test.

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📄Required Documents

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Valid passport
Required
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Current residence card (在留カード)
Required
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Application form (申請書)
Required
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2 photos (4×3cm, white background)
Required
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Certificate of Employment (在職証明書)

For work visa

Required
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Company tax return (納税証明書)

Employer document

Required
○
Personal income tax certificate
Optional
○
Residence certificate (住民票)

Some bureaus require

Optional
📥 Download Checklist PDF

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