Period of Stay and Renewal Procedures

Detailed explanation of Period of Stay and Renewal Procedures based on official information from 出入国在留管理庁. Japan

Published: January 12, 2026

Period of Stay and Renewal Procedures for Foreign Residents in Japan

1. Overview

The period of stay (在留期間, zairyū kikan) is a critical component of a foreign national's residence status in Japan. It defines the length of time an individual is legally permitted to reside in the country under a specific status of residence (在留資格, zairyū shikaku). Renewal procedures (在留期間更新許可申請, zairyū kikan kōshin kyoka shinsei) are the official processes to extend this period before its expiration, allowing for continued legal residence. Proper management of one's period of stay is fundamental to maintaining legal status, avoiding penalties such as deportation, and ensuring uninterrupted work, study, or family life in Japan.

2. Applicable Objects & Scenarios

This topic applies to all foreign nationals residing in Japan under a mid-to-long-term residence status (excluding those with "Temporary Visitor" status or certain diplomatic statuses). Key scenarios include:

  • All mid-to-long-term residents (e.g., Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services, Instructor, Student, Dependent, Spouse or Child of Japanese National, Permanent Resident, etc.) whose current period of stay is nearing expiration.
  • Individuals who wish to continue the activities permitted by their current status of residence.
  • Individuals who need to extend their stay due to ongoing projects, studies, or family circumstances.
  • It is not applicable for changing your status of residence (which requires a "Change of Status of Residence" application) or for those seeking permanent residency.

3. Core Conclusions

  • Apply Early: Submit your renewal application well before your current period of stay expires.
  • Continuous Validity: Your status remains valid while the renewal application is under review, even if the expiry date passes.
  • Eligibility is Key: Approval depends on continuing to meet the requirements for your specific status of residence.
  • Outcome Varies: The new period of stay granted is at the discretion of immigration authorities and may differ from your previous period.
  • Mandatory Procedure: Failure to renew results in illegal overstay, leading to penalties, deportation, and future immigration bans.

4. Procedures & Steps

Step 1: Preparation (Approximately 1-2 Months Before Expiry)

  1. Check Expiry Date: Confirm the expiration date (在留期間満了日) on your Residence Card (在留カード).
  2. Gather Required Documents:
    • Application Form: "Application for Extension of Period of Stay" (在留期間更新許可申請書). Download from the Immigration Services Agency (ISA) website.
    • Photo: One portrait photo (4cm x 3cm) taken within the last 3 months.
    • Passport & Residence Card: Originals and copies.
    • Documents Proving Eligibility: These vary significantly by status. Examples include:
      • For Work Statuses: Employment contract, tax certificates (納税証明書), salary statements, company brochures.
      • For Student Status: Certificate of enrollment, academic transcripts, proof of tuition payment, proof of financial capability.
      • For Dependent Status: Proof of relationship, sponsor's tax certificates, employment proof, and letter of support.
    • Revenue Stamp: An application fee revenue stamp (収入印紙) of the required amount must be purchased and affixed to the application form. Please verify the exact fee with official sources as it may change.

Step 2: Application & Submission

  1. Submit Application: File the complete application package at the regional Immigration Services Bureau (出入国在留管理局) that has jurisdiction over your place of residence. You can apply by mail in certain cases, but in-person submission is standard.
  2. Receive Application Receipt: Upon submission, you will receive a receipt (受付票). Keep this safe, as it serves as proof that your application is being processed and your status remains valid.

Step 3: Review & Confirmation

  1. Processing Time: Standard processing takes approximately 2 weeks to 2 months. You may be contacted for additional documents or an interview.
  2. Notification: You will receive a postcard (はがき) notifying you that the result is ready.
  3. Collect Result: Bring your passport, Residence Card, and the notification postcard to the immigration bureau.
  4. New Period of Stay: If approved, your Residence Card will be updated with a new period of stay on the spot. If denied, you will be given a period to depart Japan.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How early can I apply for a renewal? A: You can apply up to 3 months before your current period of stay expires. It is highly recommended to apply at least 1 month in advance.

Q2: What happens if my period of stay expires while my application is being processed? A: As long as you submitted the application before the expiry date, your residence status remains valid under the "Application for Permission" provision (在留特別許可). You can legally stay in Japan until a decision is made.

Q3: Can I travel abroad while my renewal is being processed? A: It is strongly discouraged. If you leave Japan, your renewal application will be considered withdrawn. If you must travel, consult with immigration authorities beforehand about a special re-entry permit related to the pending application.

Q4: What is the typical duration granted for a renewal? A: The duration is discretionary. Common periods are 1 year, 3 years, or 5 years, depending on factors like the stability of your employment/studies, tax payment history, and compliance with Japanese laws.

Q5: My passport is expiring soon. Can I still renew my period of stay? A: Yes, but you should also renew your passport at your country's embassy/consulate. Your period of stay is tied to your status, not your passport validity, but a valid passport is required for the application.

Q6: What should I do if my renewal is denied? A: You will be given a designated period (typically 2 weeks to 1 month) to depart Japan voluntarily. You may consult with an immigration lawyer to explore other potential statuses or appeal options, but you must not overstay the departure period.

6. Risks & Compliance

  • Overstay is a Crime: Remaining in Japan beyond your authorized period of stay is a violation of the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act, resulting in detention, deportation, and a ban on re-entry for 1, 5, or 10 years.
  • Accuracy is Crucial: Providing false documents or information in your application can lead to immediate denial, revocation of status, and deportation.
  • Maintain Eligibility: You must continue to engage in the activities permitted by your status (e.g., working for your sponsor company, attending school) throughout the renewal process.
  • Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Immigration laws and procedures are subject to change. Always confirm the latest requirements directly with the official Immigration Services Agency or a licensed immigration lawyer before proceeding.

7. References & Sources

8. Related Topics

  • Status of Residence (在留資格)
  • Change of Status of Residence (在留資格変更)
  • Certificate of Eligibility (在留資格認定証明書)
  • Re-entry Permit (再入国許可)
  • Residence Card (在留カード) Procedures
  • Permanent Residency (永住許可) Application
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