Preparing to renew your Japanese work visa

If a foreigner wishes to continue working in Japan, it is necessary to renew their work visa.
Failure to follow the correct procedures can cause problems.
Therefore, it is important to have a good understanding of the renewal procedures and requirements.
 
This article introduces the renewal procedure and required documents, as well as key points to consider when renewing a work visa smoothly.
 
*Introducing “the status of residence to work in Japan” as a " working visa".
*The information is current as of March 2024.

Work Visa Renewal Procedures

Work visas have an expiration date.
So, renewing a work visa is a necessary procedure to continue working legally in Japan.
Failure to renew will result in an illegal stay.

1. Check expiration date

Check the expiration date first.
Those who have been in Japan for more than 6 months can start the procedure 3 months prior to the expiration date.
 
Since the screening process can take some time, we recommend that you start the process as early as possible to allow plenty of time.

2. Prepare necessary documents

Required documents vary depending on the type of status of residence and the situation, so please check carefully in advance.

3. Apply at a regional immigration office.

Renewal procedures can be done at the regional immigration office in your area of residence.
Go to the application with the proper required documents.
A fee of 4,000 yen is also required for the procedure. Be sure to prepare 4,000 yen worth of " Revenue Stamps".

4. Screening and receipt of resident card

The review process takes approximately two weeks to one month.
Once approved, you can pick up your new resident card.

Key Points for Smooth Renewal Procedures

Here are a few pointers to ensure a smooth procedure.

Start preparing early.

To avoid last-minute panic and delays in renewal, start gathering the necessary documents well in advance.

Prepare a checklist

To avoid missing documents, prepare a checklist of required documents and check them off as you prepare them.
A checklist of documents to be submitted can be downloaded from the Immigration and Immigration Agency's website, and should be utilized.

🔗出入国在留管理庁　After selecting your status of residence, you will find a "Checklist of Documents to be Submitted".

Keep copies of the documents.

Keep copies of all documents in case you lose them.

Get the documents together and keep them in order.

Use folders and files to keep documents organized and easily accessible.

Keep up to date on visa renewals.

Information about visas may be updated from time to time.
Check the latest information to avoid making a mistake without knowing it.
 
The Immigration and Immigration Control Agency's website provides up-to-date information on the system and procedures.
You can check updates：出入国在留管理庁　更新情報
 
Other social networking sites share information about foreigners working in Japan, so it will be easy to get the latest information.
However, it is important to check for yourself whether the information you obtain there is correct.
 
It is also recommended that you contact your company's human resources department or the person in charge of work visas.

Common problems foreigners face when renewing their work visas

Language is difficult to understand

Documents related to visas are complex and you may not always be able to understand Japanese.
If this is the case, ask someone from your company or someone who can translate to help you.
 
The Immigration and Immigration Control Agency also has a consultation service. The Immigration and Residency Management Agency also has a consultation service.
Immigration and Residency Management Agency, General Information Center for Foreign Residents 　

Documentation is missing or not filled out correctly.

Another common problem with the work visa renewal process is missing or incorrectly filled out forms.
To avoid this, prepare a checklist of required documents.
Make sure that all documents are complete and correctly filled out. 

🔗出入国在留管理庁　After selecting your status of residence, you will find a "Checklist of Documents to be Submitted".

Conclusion

The procedure for renewing a work visa in Japan may be complicated and difficult.
However, if you prepare properly and early, the renewal process will go smoothly.
 
If you have any problems or concerns about preparing documents, consult with the person in charge at the company you work for or the immigration office.
 
If you wish to continue to work in Japan, please make sure to go through the proper procedures for renewing your work visa.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Can I continue to work while my work visa is being renewed?
A. Yes, you can continue to work in Japan while your work visa is being renewed.
 
Q. What happens if my work visa renewal is not approved?
A. If you are not approved to renew your work visa, you must stop working and leave Japan before your current visa expires.
 
Q. Can I change jobs while my work visa is being renewed?
A. If you change jobs while your work visa is being renewed, the renewal process may be complicated.
Therefore, we recommend that you change jobs after receiving an updated work visa.
However, if you need to change jobs during the renewal process, you should consult with your company or the Immigration Office.
 
Q. Do I need to renew my visa when I change jobs?
A. If you wish to change jobs other than those permitted under your status of residence, you must apply for "permission to change status of residence".
Ask the hiring manager at your new employer or consult with the Immigration and Immigration Office.

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