Japan visa extension guide: Process and conditions

While living and working in Japan, you may need to extend your visa to continue studying, working or traveling. Renewing a Japanese visa is an important process and requires you to have a thorough understanding of the process as well as the necessary conditions.

Jun 11, 2023 - 19:17
Japan visa extension guide: Process and conditions

Through this article, Injavi will provide you with a detailed guide on how to extend your Japan visa.

1. Determine the type of visa to extend

Before starting the visa extension process, you need to clearly identify the type of visa you are holding. There are many types of visas in Japan such as student visa, work visa, high-tech engineer visa, business visa, tourist visa, and many more. Each type of visa has its own renewal process and conditions, so you need to clearly identify your visa type before proceeding to the next steps.

2. Check current visa duration

Before you start the visa extension process, check your current visa duration. Normally, the regulations on visa extension will require you to apply for an extension before the current expiry date. Therefore, master the duration of your current visa so as not to miss the extension period.

3. Gather required documents

The Japan visa extension process requires you to collect and prepare the necessary documents. Typically, the list of documents includes the following:

  • Visa extension application form (original and copy).
  • Passport and copy of pages with current visa and personal information.
  • Portrait.
  • Degree, certificate or proof of need for extension (depending on visa type).
  • Financial proof such as passbook, employment contract or other document to prove financial ability.
  • Other documents related to the reason for your visa extension.

4. Fill out the visa extension application

After collecting all the documents, you need to fill out the visa extension application. Visa extension applications are available at the immigration office or the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan. Be sure to fill out the information correctly and completely to avoid delayed processing or refusal of visa extension.

5. Apply for visa extension

After you have filled out the visa extension application and prepared all the documents, you need to submit the visa extension application at the local immigration office or immigration department. Be sure to double-check that agency's list of specific documents and guidelines to make sure you've met the requirements.

6. Conditions and processing time

Processing time for visa extension applications may vary depending on each case as well as the processing agency. Usually, the processing will take 1 to 3 months. You need to wait patiently during this time and always stay in touch with the processing agency to monitor progress.

7. Visa extension result

After the processing is complete, you will receive the visa extension result. If your renewal application is accepted, you will receive your passport back with a renewed visa stamp. In case the renewal application is denied, you need to contact the processing agency for reasons and detailed instructions.

Hopefully the above guide has given you an overview of the Japan visa extension process and conditions. However, to ensure that your information is accurate and up-to-date, contact your local Japanese immigration agency or embassy for the most detailed and official instructions. Good luck in your visa extension process!

Injavi 編集部 "InJavi" is a website that provides information for foreigners to enjoy life and visit in Japan more smoothly. This website is easy to use even for first-timers to Japan and those who are not very good at Japanese, and supports multiple languages. 「InJavi」は、外国人が日本の生活や観光をよりスムーズに楽しむための情報を提供するウェブサイトです。 初めて日本を訪れる方や日本語が苦手な方でも使いやすい、多言語対応サイトです。