Guide to Residence Card Renewal & Status of Residence Extension | Documents & Tips

What is a Status of Residence (Visa) Extension?

The status of residence extension (在留期間更新許可申請) allows you to continue living in Japan after your current residence period expires. Overstaying without renewal can result in deportation and future entry bans.

When to Apply

You can apply from 3 months before your expiry date. We strongly recommend applying at least 1 month before to allow time for processing.

Where to Apply

• The Regional Immigration Services Bureau covering your registered address
• If using a registered immigration representative (gyōsei shoshi), you do not need to appear in person

Common Required Documents

• Extension application form
• Photo (4cm × 3cm)
• Passport (original)
• Residence Card (original)
• Municipal tax certificate (taxation/non-taxation)
• Municipal tax payment certificate

Additional Documents by Visa Type

Work Visa (Engineer/Humanities/International Services, etc.)

• Certificate of employment or employment contract
• Recent pay slips (several months)
• Withholding tax slip (previous year)
• Company registration certificate

Spouse Visa (Spouse of Japanese National)

• Japanese spouse’s family register (koseki)
• Japanese spouse’s residence certificate & tax certificate
• Evidence of relationship (photos, communications)

Living in Japan During the Application

If you apply before your expiry date, you may remain in Japan until either 2 months after the application date or your expiry date, whichever is later. Your residence card will be stamped to indicate the pending application.

Common Reasons for Renewal Rejection

• No longer engaged in the permitted activity (e.g., long-term unemployment on a work visa)
• Unpaid taxes, pension, or health insurance
• Job change without updating your status
• Failure to report address changes on your residence card
• Criminal conviction

Residence Card Procedures

Address change: Report within 14 days of moving at your local municipal office.
Lost/stolen card: Apply for reissuance within 14 days at the immigration bureau, with a police report.
Name change: Report within 14 days at the immigration bureau if your name changes (e.g., after marriage).

Our office offers free initial consultations in English, Japanese, Chinese, Korean, and Vietnamese. Contact us for assistance with your renewal application.