When, where, and what do I submit to renew my period of stay? If it is your first time, you may feel uneasy. This article provides an administrative scrivener's perspective.Application period (from 3 months prior to expiration to the day of expiration), ,necessary documents, ,special period, ,Online ApplicationandFees after 4/1/2025We will provide detailed explanations so that you can proceed without hesitation from the first step to the last.
Three key points of this article
- When to apply? Expiration Date3 months prior to the day of the eventApplications can be submitted until If the application is accepted within this periodspecial periodLegal residency continues in
- Where? Regional Immigration Office with jurisdictionoronlineThe procedure can be taken at (both the applicant and his/her relatives are acceptable).
- How much? Due to fee revision after 4/1/2025,Different amounts at the counter and onlineTherefore, it is essential to check the latest information.
Difference between renewal of period of stay and renewal of resident card validity period
Renewal of Period of Stay＝This is a procedure to extend the "period" of stay in Japan with the current status of residence.
Renewal of the validity period of the resident card= Renewal of the card itself (a separate procedure from extension of stay), such as for permanent residents and those who have reached the age of 16.
Timing of application (most important)
When can I get it out?
Renewal of the period of stay isFrom 3 months prior to the date of expiration of the period of stay to the day of expirationYou can apply. Apply at the counter first thing in the morning, or apply online to avoid congestion.
What happens after the expiration date? What is a "special exception period"?
If the renewal (or change of status) application is received by the expiration date,Date of Result Notificationup to or2 months from expiration dateThe lawful residence continues until the earlier ofspecial periodwill be applied. In the case of online application, due to the operation without "under application" stamp on the back of the resident card,How to check during the special exception periodAlso check with the
Where and how to apply? (at the counter/online)
over the counter (e.g. counter application)
- List of Regional Immigration OfficesCheck the immigration office that has jurisdiction over your place of residence or place of work from Check the reception hours and required items in advance.
Online application (recommended)
- Available for foreign nationals themselves and their relatives (spouse, children, parents)MYN number card, PC, JPKI. Requires my number card, PC, JPKI.
- Online Residency Application Procedures (General Information)／/operating environment／/Q&AAlso confirmed.
- Online is less affected by reception congestion,(received by) mailIt also guides operations such as
Required documents (common + by qualification)
First, a common set
| documents | point |
|---|---|
| Application for Extension of Period of Stay | The latest version of the form (PDF(see below). Note the incomplete input. |
| Passport/resident card | Bring original documents / Upload a clear image online. |
| Photograph (4cm x 3cm) | Within 3 months, strict adherence to standards. Online confirms data standards. |
| Activity and status-related documents | Employment: proof of employment and pay stubs; School attendance: enrollment, grades, and attendance; Spouse: marriage, cohabitation, livelihood, etc. |
| Proof of taxation and payment of resident tax | Must show tax status and payment status for the most recent fiscal year. Non-payment is disadvantageous. |
Typical examples by qualification
| status of residence (in Japan) | Additional typical materials |
|---|---|
| Technical/Humanities/International Services | Employment contract, job description, company's business profile and financial statements, etc. (in accordance with the requirements on the Qualifications page) |
| studying abroad (usu. at university level) | Evidence of enrollment, grades, attendance, tuition and living expenses (remittance records, etc.) |
| Spouse or Child of Japanese National | Actual marital status (cohabitation, photographs, correspondence history, etc.), basis for maintenance of livelihood |
| dependent (e.g. in a family) | Income, tax payment, and social insurance status of the individual and dependents |
| Designated Activities, Designated Skills, etc. | Affiliation documents, proof of compensation, labor and insurance coverage, check sheets, etc. |
*Please check each qualification page and guidelines for detailed requirements (e.g.:technical country, ,Renewal Permit Guidelines(See Section 2.1.2.).
Fees (revised 4/1/2025)
After April 1, 2025, the fees for residence procedures will be revised,Amounts differ for over-the-counter and online applications.The handling of the application is now handled. Because there is a transitional measure for applications received by March 31, 2025,Latest PublicationBe sure to check the amount and coverage at
Points to be looked at during the review (tips to avoid disapproval)
- Actuality and continuity of activitiesThe following is a list of requirements: conformity of the job description with the status of residence, and appropriateness of the working hours and content.
- livelihood foundation: Stable income/savings, real contract of employment.
- Fulfillment of official obligations: Taxes and social insurance not paid are negative. Organize before renewal.
- Fulfillment of requirements per qualificationE.g.: Highly qualified personnel maintain points, etc.
Timeline and flow (common to all contact/online)
D-90 to D-60: Design phase
- Identify required documents by qualification
- Coordinated timing of issuance of taxation/tax certificates. （Verify consistency of (employment/study/family).
D-45 to D-30: Documentation firming
- Prepare draft application, photo, and scans/PDFs (online, be careful of size and extension).
D-30 to D-15: Application
- Application.Receipt receipt/receipt number must be kept in strict confidence.The following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.
When the results are not available by the expiration date
If the application is received within the time framespecial periodLawful residence continues at Working and studying are permitted as usual. If you plan to enter or leave Japan, please consult with us well in advance.
Permit notification → Payment → Receipt of resident card
- Pay the fee (revenue stamps, etc.) after the permit is granted. For online operation, check the information on receipt by mail, etc.
Start] → Confirm requested documents → Prepare basic documents → (optional) prepare online environment → Apply (at counter/online) → [Confirm application of special period] → Notification of result → Payment of fee → Receive resident card → [Complete].
Advice for "Common Concerns"
- Salaries were temporarily lowered.: Explain the actual activity and livelihood potential (savings, support, etc.) with reinforcing documents.
- Initial renewal after switching from study abroad to work: Clearly present the job description as compatible with the qualifications and organized tax and company insurance status.
- Anxious to be onlineAvailable to: the individual and relatives.Usage EnvironmentandQ&Aread first, then test transmission, then production.
Final checklist before application
Check the expiration date,Application within D-30The plan is capable of The latest application form (PDF) using the (No tax liability) Already obtained proof of taxation and tax payment (no outstanding tax liability) Currently employed/attending school/family relationship, etc.Consistent factsIn the case of an online application,My number card + PC + JPKIPrepared by Immigration Jurisdiction ((a) lookand check the hours of reception!
Official Links
- Application for permission to extend the period of stay (general information):https://www.moj.go.jp/isa/applications/procedures/16-3.html
- What is the special period? :https://www.moj.go.jp/isa/applications/procedures/tokureikikan_00001.html
- Online Residency Application Procedures (Comprehensive):https://www.moj.go.jp/isa/applications/online/onlineshinsei.html
- Online application for foreign nationals themselves and their relatives:https://www.moj.go.jp/isa/applications/online/10_00112.html
- Application for permission to extend the period of stay (form):PDF Download
- Regional immigration office (jurisdiction/point of contact):https://www.moj.go.jp/isa/about/region/index.html
- Fees for residence procedures revised (from 4/1/2025):https://www.moj.go.jp/isa/01_00518.html
- Online application "application in progress" indication (confirmation of special exception period):https://www.moj.go.jp/isa/applications/online/11_00035.html
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q. When can I apply?
A. The date of expiration of the period of stay3 months prior to the day of the eventPossible. We recommend that you submit your application 2-4 weeks in advance in case of congestion or amendment requests.
Q. If the expiration date expires before the results are received, will I be in the country illegally?
A. If the application is received within the time frame,special periodThe legal residence continues (until the earlier of two months from the date of notification of results or expiration date) at
Q. What are the requirements for online application?
A. A personal number card, a personal computer, and an environment that supports public personal authentication are required. Foreign residents and their relatives (spouse, children, parents) can also use this service.
Q. How long is the screening period?
A. It varies depending on the content and time of year, but several weeks is typical. It is important to respond promptly to correction requests.
Q. What if I have unpaid taxes or social insurance?
A. Failure to pay will be detrimental. Organize, pay and prepare vouchers before renewal.
summary
What is the renewal of the period of stay?Time (from 3 months prior to expiration to the day of expiration)andConsistency of required documentationis key. It is a good idea to understand the special exception period as a safety net while reducing waiting time by utilizing online. Finish up with the checklist above, and if in doubt, consult with a specialist as soon as possible.
Inquiry / Access
Horiuchi Gyoseishoshi Lawyer Office (Shinjuku, Tokyo)
Attn: Gyoseishoshi Scrivener Yukiko Horiuchi
Affiliation: Tokyo Gyoseishoshi Lawyers Association, Shinjuku Branch
Tokyo Immigration and Residency Management Bureau, Application Agency Gyoseishoshi Scrivener
Member of Foreign Employment Support Organization (FESO)
Access:
5-minute walk from Higashi Shinjuku Station on the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line
8-minute walk from Shin-Okubo Station on the JR Yamanote Line
12-minute walk from Okubo Station on the JR Chuo and Sobu Lines
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