For foreign nationals living in Japan, understanding your residence status is essential. Your residence status defines what activities you are permitted to engage in while staying in Japan, and it is managed by the Immigration Services Agency. This article explains the basics of residence status, including types, renewal, and change procedures.
Main Types of Residence Status
- Work-related: Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services, Business Manager, Specified Skilled Worker, Technical Intern Training, etc.
- Status-based: Permanent Resident, Spouse or Child of Japanese National, Long-Term Resident, etc.
- Non-work: Student, Dependent, Cultural Activities, etc.
Renewing Your Residence Status
You must apply for a “Permission to Extend Period of Stay” before your current period expires. Applications can be submitted up to 3 months before expiry. Required documents typically include your passport, residence card, application form, photo, and tax certificates. Incomplete applications risk rejection, so early preparation is key.
Changing Your Residence Status
If your activities in Japan change — for example, a student graduating and starting work — you must apply for a “Permission to Change Status of Residence.” During the change application period, you must continue acting within the scope of your current status.
Consult Inui Administrative Law Firm
Errors or missing documents in residence status applications can lead to rejection. As a licensed immigration representative, our firm handles submissions to the immigration office on your behalf. The first consultation is free. Please feel free to reach out.
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