Most residence statuses in Japan aren't granted for life — they come with a period of stay (often 1, 3, or 5 years depending on category) that you need to renew before it expires if you want to keep living in Japan on the same basis.
Extension applications are filed at your local regional immigration bureau, generally starting from about three months before your current period of stay expires. You'll need your residence card, a renewal application form, and documents showing your circumstances haven't materially changed in a way that would affect eligibility — for work visas, that typically means a certificate of employment and recent tax/income records; for the student visa, proof of continued enrollment and academic standing.
A few things worth planning around:
- If your application is still pending when your current period of stay expires, you're generally allowed to remain in Japan on the same conditions for up to two months while the bureau finishes processing — but don't rely on this as a buffer; apply early.
- Renewal fees are part of the immigration fee increases taking effect under the 2026 legislation — see 2026 Fee Changes Explained.
- A history of tax payments, health insurance enrollment, and no criminal issues all factor into renewal decisions, so staying current on these during your stay matters more than most people realize until renewal time arrives.
If you need to switch categories rather than renew the same one, see Changing Status of Residence. Back to How to Apply.