留学Visa（Residence Status「留学」）

Detailed explanation of 留学Visa（Residence Status「留学」） based on official information from 出入国在留管理庁. Japan

Published: January 12, 2026

Japan Residence Status: Overview and Application Guide

1. Overview

Residence status (在留資格, zairyū shikaku) is the legal permission granted by the Japanese government that defines a foreign national's purpose of stay, permitted activities, and length of residence in Japan. It is a fundamental component of Japan's immigration control system, governed primarily by the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act. Every foreign national residing in Japan for more than 90 days must possess a valid residence status that corresponds to their activities. This status is distinct from a visa, which is an endorsement for entry, while residence status governs your stay after entry. Proper management of your residence status is critical for legal residence, employment, access to public services, and eventual pathways to permanent residency.

2. Applicable Objects & Scenarios

This information applies to foreign nationals who:

  • Plan to enter Japan for a medium to long-term stay (exceeding 90 days) for purposes such as work, study, family reunion, or designated activities.
  • Are currently residing in Japan and need to change their status (e.g., from "Student" to "Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services").
  • Need to renew their current status before its period of stay expires.
  • Are applying for a Certificate of Eligibility (在留資格認定証明書, zairyū shikaku nintei shōmeisho), which is a preliminary approval for a residence status, often applied for from overseas.
  • Have experienced a change in circumstances (e.g., change of employer, institution, or marital status) that requires notification or permission.

3. Core Conclusions

  • Activity-Bound: Your residence status strictly defines the activities you are allowed to engage in (e.g., work, study). Working outside the scope of your status is prohibited.
  • Status Management is Personal Responsibility: It is the holder's responsibility to ensure their status remains valid, to apply for renewals or changes in a timely manner, and to comply with all reporting obligations.
  • Certificate of Eligibility is Key for Initial Entry: For most long-term statuses, obtaining a Certificate of Eligibility from the Regional Immigration Services Bureau in Japan is the recommended first step before applying for a visa at an overseas embassy/consulate.
  • Residence Card is Central: Upon entry or being granted status, you will receive a Residence Card (在留カード, zairyū kādo). This is your primary ID in Japan and must be carried at all times.
  • Procedures are Handled In-Country: Applications for renewal, change, or permission for activities outside your status are submitted to the Regional Immigration Services Bureau in Japan.

4. Procedures & Steps

Step 1: Preparation

  1. Identify the Correct Status: Determine the residence status that matches your primary purpose in Japan (e.g., "Highly Skilled Professional," "Instructor," "Spouse or Child of Japanese National").
  2. Gather Required Documents: Prepare the standard application form and all necessary supporting documents. This typically includes:
    • Valid passport and residence card (if already in Japan).
    • Application form (specific to the type of request: change, renewal, etc.).
    • Photo meeting specifications.
    • Documents proving eligibility for the desired status (e.g., employment contract, marriage certificate, letter of acceptance from a school, company registration documents).
    • Note: Document lists vary significantly by status. Always check the official checklist.
  3. For First-Time Applicants Outside Japan: A sponsor (employer, school, relative) in Japan usually applies for a Certificate of Eligibility on your behalf at the local Regional Immigration Services Bureau.

Step 2: Application & Submission

  1. Where to Apply:
    • From outside Japan: After receiving the Certificate of Eligibility, apply for the corresponding visa at the Japanese embassy or consulate in your country/region.
    • From inside Japan: Submit the application for a change/extension of status directly to the nearest Regional Immigration Services Bureau. You cannot apply at a city hall or municipal office for these matters.
  2. Submission: Submit the complete application packet in person or by mail (if permitted for your application type). Be prepared to pay the application fee, if applicable. Fee amounts vary; please verify with official sources.

Step 3: Review & Confirmation

  1. Processing Time: Standard processing can take from 2 weeks to 3 months, depending on the status type, complexity, and bureau workload. Some statuses like "Highly Skilled Professional" may have prioritized processing.
  2. Notification: You will receive a postcard or notification when the result is ready. For in-country applications, you must return to the Immigration Bureau to collect the result.
  3. Outcome:
    • Approval: Your passport will be stamped, and your Residence Card will be updated (or issued upon entry) with your new status and period of stay.
    • Denial: You will receive a written notice. You may be able to reapply or file an objection depending on the grounds.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the difference between a visa and a residence status? A: A visa is a sticker or endorsement placed in your passport by a Japanese embassy/consulate, granting you permission to enter Japan and apply for landing permission. The residence status is granted by an immigration officer at the port of entry (or via an in-country application) and defines your legal status, permitted activities, and length of stay within Japan.

Q2: Can I work part-time with a "Student" residence status? A: Yes, but with strict limitations. Students must obtain Permission to Engage in Activity Other Than That Permitted by the Status of Residence from Immigration before starting any work. This permission typically allows up to 28 hours per week during school terms and up to 8 hours per day during designated school breaks. Working in certain industries (e.g., adult entertainment) is prohibited.

Q3: What happens if I overstay my period of stay? A: Overstaying is a serious violation of immigration law. You become an illegal resident, subject to detention, deportation, and a ban on re-entering Japan for a period of 1, 5, or 10 years depending on the length of overstay. It can also severely impact future visa applications to other countries.

Q4: How early can I apply to renew my residence status? A: You can submit an application for extension of your period of stay starting from three months before your current status expires. It is highly recommended to apply well in advance to avoid lapse.

Q5: Do I need to notify Immigration if I change my address? A: Yes. You are legally required to report a change of address to your local municipal office (市役所 shiyakusho or 区役所 kuyakusho) within 14 days of moving. The municipal office will update your Residence Card. Note that changing your employer or school under certain statuses requires a separate "Notification of Contracting Organization" to Immigration.

Q6: Can I apply for permanent residency (永住権) with any status? A: No. You must meet specific residency, conduct, and financial stability requirements. Generally, you need to have resided in Japan continuously for a required number of years (often 10, but reduced for some statuses like "Highly Skilled Professional" or spouses of Japanese nationals) while holding a long-term residence status.

6. Risks & Compliance

  • Engaging in unauthorized activities (e.g., working on a "Temporary Visitor" status) is illegal and will result in revocation of status, deportation, and re-entry bans.
  • Failure to renew your status on time leads to illegal overstay. Do not wait until the last minute.
  • Always carry your Residence Card. Failure to present it to an immigration officer or police officer upon request can result in fines.
  • Information in this article is for guidance only. Immigration laws and procedures are subject to change. Always confirm the latest requirements directly with the official sources or a licensed immigration lawyer/scrivenor before proceeding.
  • Processing times are estimates. Plan your travel and commitments conservatively, as delays can occur.

7. References & Sources

8. Related Topics

  • Certificate of Eligibility (在留資格認定証明書)
  • Residence Card (在留カード)
  • Re-entry Permit (再入国許可)
  • Permanent Residency (永住許可)
  • Change of Residence Status (在留資格変更)
  • Extension of Period of Stay (在留期間更新許可)
  • Notification of Contracting Organization (所属機関等の届出)
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