When do I renew or change my visa? Application Periods and Procedures to Prevent Overstays

When do I renew or change my visa? Application Periods and Procedures to Prevent Overstays

Status of Residenceupdateand ... andchangeis an indispensable procedure for continuing to stay in Japan, but questions abound as to when one can apply and how long it will take for the examination to be completed. If you make a mistake in the timing of application, the worst case scenario isoverstay(illegal stay), making it extremely difficult for them to stay in Japan in the future. In this column,Visa Renewal/ChangeThis section explains the timing of the procedures related to the project and the process to ensure that you never make a mistake.

Application for permission to extend the period of stay: "When can I apply?

In principle, application can be made from "3 months prior" to the expiration date of the period of stay.

Period of stayupdateHa,From 3 months prior to the expiration date of the current period of stayYou can apply to the Immigration Bureau.

  • Notes: Please apply well in advance of the application period and be sure to keep the "Receipt" issued by the Immigration Bureau.

Status of Residence under Application: What is the "Deemed Period of Stay" for the Special Exception Period?

If the application is filed before the expiration date of the period of stay, as a "special period" even after the expiration of the period of stay, until the result is obtained,Up to 2 monthscan continue to legally stay in Japan. (This is the "deemed period.")

Application for Change of Status of Residence: Flexibility in Application Timing and Points to Note

  • Apply as soon as the reason for the change occurs.
    • Example: If you receive a job offer while studying abroad, you can apply to change your visa status to a work visa as soon as you are expected to graduate.
  • overstayschool (e.g. of ikebana)illegal stayand thendeportationsubject to the following. It must be avoided at all costs.

Checklist to ensure overstay

  1. Always check the expiration date of your residence card.
  2. Renewal applications must be submitted three months prior to the expiration date.
  3. When you apply, you will receive a receipt ofDate of application receipt.and keep them in custody.
  4. Even if the screening process takes a long time, do not leave Japan until the results are available.

Examination period

The Immigration and Naturalization Service.Residency Screening Processing Time (days)The following is a list of the most important Please refer to it for your reference.
https://www.moj.go.jp/isa/applications/resources/nyuukokukanri07_00140.html

special remarks

interpoint (interword separation)Application for Permanent ResidenceSpecial attention should be paid to the renewal of the
interpoint (interword separation)Study Abroad to WorkThe application period is exceptionally early for changes to

For a smooth application: Advantages of hiring an administrative scrivener

Applications to the Immigration Bureau involve many required documents and complicated terminology, so there is a risk that incomplete applications will delay the examination or result in denial of the application. By hiring an administrative scrivener, the procedure can be completed quickly and reliably without any incomplete documents.


If you have concerns about visa renewal or change procedures, please contact us.

When can I apply in time? What documents do I need? to complex cases, our specialized administrative scriveners will support you responsibly.

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