Guide
How to Renew Your Visa in Japan: Complete Guide (2026)
Last updated: March 2026 · Based on Immigration Services Agency (ISA) official sources
In Japan, your visa (在留資格) has an expiration date. If you want to stay beyond that date, you need to apply for an Extension of Period of Stay (在留期間更新). This guide covers when to apply, what documents you need, and how to avoid delays.
Apply early — don't wait until the last week
You can apply up to 3 months before your visa expires. Processing typically takes 2-4 weeks but can take longer. If your visa expires while the application is pending, you can legally stay for up to 2 months past the expiry date (special provision) — but don't rely on this.
When to Apply
Earliest you can apply. Recommended. Gives maximum buffer for processing.
Still reasonable, but cutting it close if additional documents are requested.
If application was filed before expiry and is still pending, you get a 2-month grace period. If you didn't apply before expiry, you are overstaying — this is a serious immigration violation.
Step-by-Step Process
Gather required documents
Documents vary by visa type (see below). Start collecting them early — some take time to obtain.
Fill out the application form
Download from the ISA website or use the online system. The form is available in multiple languages but must be completed in Japanese or English.
Submit your application
Apply at your regional Immigration Bureau (入国管理局), via online system, or through your employer's registered representative. Bring your passport and Residence Card.
Wait for result (2-4 weeks typical)
You'll receive a postcard (はがき) when the result is ready. Processing time varies — work visas are usually faster, some categories take longer.
Pick up your new Residence Card
Go to the Immigration Bureau with the postcard, passport, current Residence Card, and a ¥4,000 revenue stamp (収入印紙). You'll receive a new Residence Card with updated expiry date.
Online Application (オンライン申請)
Since 2022, many visa renewals can be done online through the ISA's online residence application system. This saves you from going to the Immigration Bureau in person (except to pick up your new card).
Requirements for Online Filing
- A My Number Card with electronic certificate
- A smartphone with NFC or an IC card reader
- An account on the ISA online system
Employer can file for you
If your company is a registered organization with the ISA, their HR department can submit your renewal application online on your behalf. Ask your HR if they handle this — many large companies do.
Required Documents by Visa Type
Below are the common documents for each major visa category. Immigration may request additional documents depending on your situation.
Work Visa (技術・人文知識・国際業務 etc.)
- ☐ Application form (在留期間更新許可申請書)
- ☐ Passport and Residence Card
- ☐ Photo (4cm × 3cm, taken within 3 months)
- ☐ Company's certificate of registered matters (登記事項証明書) or company brochure
- ☐ Employment contract or letter confirming continued employment
- ☐ Tax certificate — Residence Tax Payment Certificate (住民税の課税証明書 & 納税証明書)
- ☐ Company's withholding tax record (給与所得の源泉徴収票)
- ☐ Revenue stamp (¥4,000)
Category 1-4 companies have different document requirements. Category 1 (listed companies, government) requires fewer documents. Ask your employer which category they fall under.
Student Visa (留学)
- ☐ Application form
- ☐ Passport and Residence Card
- ☐ Photo (4cm × 3cm)
- ☐ Certificate of enrollment from your school
- ☐ Academic transcript (成績証明書)
- ☐ Proof of financial support (bank statements or scholarship certificate)
- ☐ Attendance record from school (出席率が重要 — attendance rate matters)
- ☐ Revenue stamp (¥4,000)
Warning: Low attendance (generally below 80%) is a common reason for denial. If your attendance is low, prepare a written explanation.
Spouse Visa (日本人の配偶者等)
- ☐ Application form
- ☐ Passport and Residence Card
- ☐ Photo (4cm × 3cm)
- ☐ Marriage certificate (戸籍謄本 for Japanese spouse)
- ☐ Residence Tax certificates for both spouses
- ☐ Letter of guarantee from Japanese spouse (身元保証書)
- ☐ Proof of cohabitation (住民票 showing same address)
- ☐ Questionnaire about your marriage (質問書) — if first renewal
- ☐ Photos together, communication records — if marriage is recent
- ☐ Revenue stamp (¥4,000)
Immigration is particularly thorough with spouse visa renewals to verify the marriage is genuine. Living apart from your spouse raises flags — prepare an explanation if applicable.
Working Holiday (ワーキングホリデー)
Working holiday visas generally cannot be renewed. They are issued for a fixed period (usually 1 year) and are non-extendable. If you want to stay longer, you must change to a different visa status (e.g., work visa, student visa, spouse visa).
Exception: Some bilateral agreements allow limited extensions. Check with the embassy of your country.
Specified Skilled Worker (特定技能)
- ☐ Application form
- ☐ Passport and Residence Card
- ☐ Photo (4cm × 3cm)
- ☐ Employment contract
- ☐ Support plan (1号特定技能外国人支援計画)
- ☐ Company documents (登記事項証明書, financial statements)
- ☐ Tax certificates (company and individual)
- ☐ Health insurance and pension payment records
- ☐ Revenue stamp (¥4,000)
SSW Type 1 is limited to a total of 5 years. SSW Type 2 can be renewed indefinitely and leads to permanent residence eligibility.
Highly Skilled Professional (高度専門職)
- ☐ Application form
- ☐ Passport and Residence Card
- ☐ Photo (4cm × 3cm)
- ☐ Points calculation sheet (ポイント計算表) with supporting documents
- ☐ Employment contract
- ☐ Company documents
- ☐ Tax certificates
- ☐ Degree certificates, qualification certificates (for points)
- ☐ Revenue stamp (¥4,000)
HSP Type 2 holders receive an indefinite period of stay — no renewal needed. HSP Type 1 can transition to Type 2 after 3 years (or 1 year with 80+ points).
Cost
How Long Will My New Visa Be?
The granted period depends on your visa category, your history, and immigration's assessment. There is no guarantee you'll get the maximum period.
| Visa Type | Possible Periods | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Work Visa | 1 year, 3 years, or 5 years | 5 years usually after multiple successful renewals |
| Student | 3 months to 4 years 3 months | Usually aligned with academic program length |
| Spouse | 6 months, 1 year, 3 years, or 5 years | New marriages typically get 1 year initially |
| SSW Type 1 | 1 year, 6 months, or 4 months | Total stay cannot exceed 5 years |
| SSW Type 2 | 1 year, 3 years | No total stay limit; PR eligible |
| HSP Type 1 | 5 years | Always 5 years |
| HSP Type 2 | Indefinite | No renewal needed |
Changing Visa Type (在留資格変更)
If your situation changes — e.g., you finish school and get a job, or you get married — you need to change your visa status, not renew it. This is a separate application (在留資格変更許可申請) filed at the same Immigration Bureau.
Common Transitions
| From | To | Key Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Student | Work Visa | Job offer with qualifying company |
| Working Holiday | Work Visa | Employer sponsorship + degree or 10 years experience |
| Work Visa | Spouse Visa | Marriage to Japanese national registered at city hall |
| Work Visa | HSP | 70+ points on the HSP point system |
| Any | Permanent Residence | 10 years in Japan (or shorter with HSP/spouse), good tax/pension record |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Waiting until the last day to apply
If any document is missing, you won't have time to get it. Apply 2-3 months before expiry.
Not updating your address
If you moved and didn't report it to your ward office within 14 days, this is technically a violation. Update before applying.
Working outside your visa scope
If you changed jobs to a different field without updating your visa, this can cause problems. E.g., an "Engineer" visa holder working as a restaurant manager.
Traveling abroad while application is pending
If you leave Japan while your renewal is processing, the application may be voided. If you must travel, get a re-entry permit first.
Where to Apply
Apply at the Regional Immigration Bureau (地方出入国在留管理局) that has jurisdiction over your place of residence. Major offices:
- Tokyo: Shinagawa Immigration Bureau (品川) — the busiest office in Japan. Expect long waits.
- Osaka: Osaka Regional Immigration Bureau (大阪出入国在留管理局)
- Nagoya: Nagoya Regional Immigration Bureau
- Fukuoka: Fukuoka Regional Immigration Bureau
Pro tip: Go early or use online
At Shinagawa, arriving before the doors open (9:00 AM) can save hours of waiting. Better yet, use the online system if eligible — no queues at all.
Useful Resources
- ISA — Extension of Period of Stay — Official application forms and instructions
- ISA — Change of Status of Residence — For changing your visa type
- ISA — Online Application System — Apply for renewal online
Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about visa renewal procedures in Japan. Immigration rules change and individual situations vary. For complex cases (previous violations, changes in employment, divorce), consulting an immigration lawyer (行政書士 or 弁護士) is recommended. This is not legal advice.
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