If you are looking at how to obtain a visa extension in Japan to continue legally staying in the country, you’ve come to the right place. This complete guide will explain the eligibility for visa extension Japan, the visa extension requirements Japan, and how to submit the application for extension of period of stay Japan if eligible.
Eligibility for Period of Stay Extension
Generally, in Japan, the Immigration Services Agency does not issue extensions of short-term tourist visas. Only under the following circumstances, are you eligible for the application for extension of period of stay Japan:
- If you stay in Japan for up to 90 days for tourism or business with a short-term stay visa, and encounter accidents such as sudden illness or family emergencies;
- If you are an international student with a student visa and wish for further study;
- If you are employed in a Japanese company with a work visa and wish to continue working here;
- If you are the dependent of a Japanese citizen.
When to Apply for a Visa Extension
You may submit a Japan visa extension application up to 90 days before your visa expires. If you exceed your authorized period of stay by even one day, you will be considered an illegal resident. You should apply for a visa extension at the Immigration Office in person.
Where to Submit Application for Extension
You can submit the application for extension of period of stay Japan at an Immigration Office. Find the nearest office on the official website of the Immigration Services Agency.
Requirements for Visa Extension in Japan
To apply for a visa extension Japan, you need to prepare the following documents:
- A completed Visa extension application form Japan.
- One ID color photo (4 x 3cm) taken within the last 3 months (Put your name on the back of the photo).
- Your passport.
- Your residence card.
- Certificate of payment of processing fee of 4000 yen by revenue stamp.
- Proof of you meeting the financial requirements to stay in Japan, such as bank account balance.
If you apply for a student visa, prepare the additional documents:
- Student ID.
- Academic transcript.
- Certificate of enrollment.
- Certificate of scholarship (if applicable).
If you apply for a work visa, prepare the additional documents:
- Proof of continued employment stating your employment details, such as the salary, position, and duration.
- The company’s registration documents.
- Proof of the annual income and tax payment.
If you apply for a spouse or child visa, prepare the additional documents:
- A copy of the family registration.
- A copy of the Residence Card of the Japanese citizen.
- Proof of income and profession of the Japanese citizen.
- Letter of Guarantee from the Japanese citizen.
Application for Extension of Period of Stay
The application for extension of period of stay in Japan can be submitted in person or online. Whether you’re a student, worker, or residing for other reasons, understanding the process is key to ensuring a smooth visa extension without disrupting your life in Japan.
In Person
It’s straightforward to extend your stay in Japan in person, but it requires careful attention to detail. Here is a guide on how to apply for an extension of period of stay in Japan in person.
Step 1. Download the application for extension of period of stay form and complete it. Attach your recently taken 3x4cm ID photograph on it.
Step 2. Prepare the required documents according to your visa category.
Step 3. Submit the application for extension of period of stay Japan with the required documents in person at an Immigration Office that covers the area where you registered on your Residence Card. Locate the nearest office on the official website of the Immigration Services Agency.
Step 4. The applicant review process takes 2 to 4 weeks. The office may request additional documents from you during this time.
Step 5. When the process is completed, you will receive a postcard notifying you to pick up your new residence card. Bring your passport, old residence card, the postcard from the Immigration Office, and the Revenue Stamp with you to collect the new residence card.
Online
If you prefer to apply for a visa extension to Japan online, you need an IC card reader writer that can read a MyNumber card connected to your computer. While the online process can save you much time, you should be prepared for potential challenges during the application. Here is how:
Step 1. Convert all required documents into a single PDF. And get a digital 3x4cm ID photo.
Step 2. Download the JPKI app (Windows version / Mac Version) and install it on your computer. Open the application and fill in the required information.
Step 3. Access the Immigration Service Agency of Japan (ISA) website. Locate “Register a new user” and click “Foreign National (applicant)/Other”.
Step 4. Follow the instructions given with your IC card reader and MyNumber card. And register a username.
Step 5. Return to the ISA website. log in with your username, and use your card reader to proceed with the visa application.
Step 6. Complete the application online. Provide your personal information and upload the required documents and a digital photo. You will receive a confirmation email.
Step 7. The applicant review process takes 2 to 4 weeks. The office may request additional documents from you during this time. When the process is completed, you will receive a postcard notifying you to pick up your new residence card. Bring your passport, old residence card, the postcard from the Immigration Office, and the Revenue Stamp with you to collect the new residence card.
How Long Does it Take for a Visa Extension?
Generally, the application process for a visa extension in Japan takes between two to four weeks. During this time, you will receive notification of the result. If it takes longer than expected, contact the Immigration Office you applied for the extension of stay in. You may find the contact details on the official website of the Immigration Services Agency.
How Much Does a Japan Visa Extension Cost?
The application fee for a visa extension in Japan is 4000 Yen, which should be paid through revenue stamps. Revenue stamps can be acquired at any local post office or immigration office. Additional costs may apply such as the fees for translation of documents.
What Happens if My Visa Extension Application is Rejected?
If your application for extension of period of stay is not approved, you will be notified why your application was denied. Generally, some of the common reasons for rejection of visa extension applications include:
- Your financial status isn’t sufficient to support your stay in Japan;
- You had bad behavior during your time in Japan;
- You failed to pay your taxes;
- Your employer’s financial records are defective;
- Your documents submitted are inaccurate;
- You failed to comply with the required attendance if you hold a student visa;
- You’re not living with your spouse if you hold a spouse visa.
You may reapply for a visa extension or apply for a different visa category depending on the rejection reason for your previous application. Be cautious and prepare well enough for the reapplication given the limited visa validity.
FAQ
How do I write a letter requesting an extension of my stay?
It is recommended to write a letter explaining why you need an extension of your stay. Even if it’s not required, submitting such a letter helps the Immigration Office understand your situation better, and possibly increases your chance of getting a visa extension. The letter should be written in formal tones in Japanese, including your personal information, a valid reason for the extension of stay in detail, the duration of the extension you are seeking, and any effect the extended stay may have on your employment or residency.
How to stay in Japan longer than 90 days?
Generally, a Japan single-entry visa is valid for 90 days. If you want to stay in Japan longer than 90 days, obtain a visa extension for Japan from 3 months before your visa expires. You can either request a visa extension at a local Immigration Office for valid reasons such as sudden illness or family emergencies, or explore options like a working holiday visa, student visa, or work visa, depending on your circumstances.
How long can you stay in Japan before applying for an extension?
You can stay 90 days at the top if you hold a tourist visa before applying for a visa extension Japan, or until your long-term visa expires. It is strongly advised to prepare for the visa extension Japan application three months prior to the expiration date if you intend to do so. That’s because it generally takes about one month for the Immigration Office to review the application. If you exceed your authorized period of stay by even one day, you will be considered an illegal resident.
Conclusion
This article delves into the application for extension of period of stay Japan in 2024. If you are studying or working in Japan and wish to remain in Japan for longer than your current visa authorization, you should apply for the visa extension Japan 3 months before your visa expires, filing the visa extension application form Japan along with the required documents in person at a nearest Immigration Office.
Erin Lo