Planning to extend your visa in Japan? Here’s everything you need to know.
To successfully extend your stay, you’ll need accurate and complete documents. Mistakes are common, but avoidable. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Basic Documents: Application form, passport, residence card, ID photo, and a 4,000 yen revenue stamp.
- Visa-Specific Documents:
- Student Visa: Enrollment certificate, transcript, attendance record, sponsorship evidence.
- Work Visa: Employment letter, tax documents, salary slips, business registry extract.
- Dependent Visa: Proof of relationship, sponsor’s financial documents, sponsor’s residence card.
- Financial Proof: Income must meet visa-specific thresholds (e.g., 3 million yen for work visas). Provide recent bank statements, tax certificates, and salary slips.
- Deadlines: Apply 90 days before your visa expires. A 2-month provisional extension is available if needed.
Tip: Double-check all documents for accuracy and validity (issued within 3 months). Missing or incorrect paperwork causes most rejections.
Follow these steps to ensure a smooth application process and avoid delays. Read on for detailed guidance by visa type and financial requirements.
How to Fill in Visa Extension Application Form in Japan
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Basic Required Documents
To apply, you’ll need to provide these essential documents:
Forms and Passport Requirements
You’ll need to complete the Application for Extension of Period of Stay form, which must:
- Be downloaded from the official Immigration Services Agency website (make sure it’s the latest version).
- Be printed on A4-sized paper.
- Be filled out in either Japanese or English.
- Include your personal signature.
Your passport must be valid at the time of application. While there’s no strict rule about how much validity is required, having at least 6 months of validity remaining beyond your requested extension is a good idea. If you’ve recently renewed your passport, submit both the old and new ones.
ID Photos and Residence Card
Your application needs a recent ID photo that meets these criteria:
| Photo Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Size | 4cm x 3cm |
| Age | Taken within the last 3 months |
| Background | Plain and light-colored |
| Pose | Facing forward with a neutral expression |
| Quality | Clear, sharp, and focused |
| Restrictions | No hats or head coverings unless for religious or medical reasons |
You’ll also need your Residence Card (zairyū kādo), which verifies your current legal status. Be sure that:
- All information on the card is up-to-date.
- Both sides of the card are photocopied clearly.
- Any recent changes, like address updates, are properly registered.
Payment and Revenue Stamps
The application fee is 4,000 yen, payable through a revenue stamp (shūnyū inshi). You can buy these stamps at:
- Post offices
- Certain vending machines at immigration offices
If your application is being processed, a provisional extension period (Tokurei Kikan) allows you to stay in Japan for up to 2 months. You can travel outside Japan during this time, but you must return before the provisional extension expires[7][5].
These documents are the foundation of your application. Once you’ve gathered them, move on to the next section to prepare visa-specific materials.
Documents by Visa Type
Make sure to prepare these documents along with the basic ones:
Student Visa Documents
These confirm eligibility under Article 19-2 of the Immigration Control Act [1].
| Required Document | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Enrollment Certificate & Official Transcript | Must be issued within the last 3 months |
| Attendance Record | Especially important for language school students |
| Sponsorship Evidence | Includes bank statements or a scholarship certificate |
Work Visa Documents
These support the eligibility criteria for ongoing employment mentioned earlier.
| Required Document | Details |
|---|---|
| Employment Verification Letter | Confirms current employment status and position |
| Tax Documents | Certificate of tax payment from local authorities |
| Business Registry Extract | Confirms the company’s legal status |
| Salary Slips | Recent salary slips detailing your position |
For certain professions, extra paperwork may be necessary:
- Researchers/Professors: Include a list of publications and research proposals [1].
- Medical Professionals: Provide a copy of your valid Japanese medical license [1].
- Intra-company Transferees: Submit a detailed transfer letter from the parent company [1].
Dependent Visa Documents
Dependent visa applicants must show proof of their relationship with the sponsor and financial support.
| Required Document | Details |
|---|---|
| Family Status Documents | Original or certified copies of marriage or birth certificates |
| Sponsor Documents | Includes a copy of the sponsor’s residence card and employment certificate |
| Financial Evidence | Tax certificates and bank statements from the sponsor |
| Sponsor’s Commitment Letter | Signed letter confirming financial responsibility |
Refer to the Financial Requirements section for specific income thresholds.
Financial Requirements
To complete your application, you’ll need to provide specific financial documentation. Here’s what you’ll need to know:
Income Requirements
The Japanese Immigration Bureau has set minimum income levels that vary depending on the type of visa you’re applying for:
| Visa Type | Annual Income Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Work Visa | 3 million yen | Higher thresholds may apply for certain roles [1][5] |
| Student Visa | 1.5 million yen | Should cover both tuition and living costs [2] |
| Dependent Visa | 3 million yen (sponsor) | Add 500,000 yen for each additional dependent [3] |
| Highly Skilled Professional | Minimum 4 million yen | Income also counts toward eligibility points [4] |
If you’re self-employed or a freelancer, you’ll need to prove stable income using:
- Tax returns from the last 1-2 years
- Profit and loss statements
- Active contracts with clients
- Business registration documents [6]
These income levels also apply if you’re sponsoring dependents (see Dependent Visa Documents for more details).
Proof of Financial Status
In addition to visa-specific income requirements, you’ll need to provide the following financial documents:
| Document Type | Issue Date | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Bank Statements | Last 6 months | Must reflect a consistent balance |
| Tax Payment Certificates | Current fiscal year | Only original copies are accepted |
| Salary Statements | Last 6 months | Must include the company seal |
| Employment Contract | Current | Should cover the visa extension period |
Make sure all documents are issued within three months of your application date. If they’re not in Japanese, you’ll also need to provide translations that meet the guidelines outlined in the Document Accuracy Requirements.
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Common Application Errors
Even with detailed instructions, certain mistakes can still lead to delays or rejections. Here’s what to watch out for:
Document Validity Issues
The Immigration Bureau has strict rules about document validity. Make sure your materials meet these standards.
| Document Type | Validity Requirement |
|---|---|
| Tax Certificates | Must be issued within 3 months |
| Employment Certificates | Must be issued within 3 months |
When preparing your documents, keep these tips in mind:
- Ensure translations include the translator’s credentials.
- Double-check that your residence card details match all other documents.
- Always submit original documents or certified copies.
Financial Documentation Gaps
Financial mistakes are responsible for 40% of initial rejections [7]. To avoid issues, provide clear and complete financial proof.
| Error Type | How to Avoid It |
|---|---|
| Insufficient Funds | Maintain the required visa minimums. |
| Unclear Income | Clearly document all income sources. |
For example, in 2023, outdated tax documents led to immediate rejections until applicants submitted updated versions [7]. Make sure your financial records align with the income thresholds and proof requirements discussed earlier.
Application Timing and Process
Application Deadlines
Submitting your visa extension application on time is crucial in Japan. You can apply up to 90 days before your current visa expires[1]. For instance, if your visa expires on July 15, you can start applying from April 16.
Japan’s Immigration Services Agency offers a safeguard called “Tokurei Kikan” (特例期間), which grants a 2-month provisional extension starting from your visa’s expiration date[7]. This ensures you’re covered while your application is being reviewed.
Missing deadlines can lead to status gaps, which may complicate future applications.
| Application Timeline | Details |
|---|---|
| Earliest Submission | 3 months before expiration |
| Latest Submission | 1 day before expiration (risky) |
| Provisional Extension | 2 months from visa expiration |
Processing Time
The processing period usually ranges from 2 to 4 weeks[2], though several factors can influence this timeline:
| Factor | Impact on Processing |
|---|---|
| Peak Seasons | Delays are common during April (student visas) |
| Application Type | Online submissions may be faster[7] |
You can track your application status using:
- The Immigration Services Agency’s online portal
- Phone inquiries to your local immigration office
- In-person visits (recommended after 2 weeks)
For urgent cases, include a formal explanation letter, though expedited approvals are not guaranteed.
Conclusion: Steps for Success
Avoiding common documentation mistakes can significantly improve your chances of success [8]. Here’s a practical action plan to help you complete your application smoothly:
1. Get Your Documents Ready Early
- Gather key items like your passport, residence card, and required application forms.
- Include financial records such as bank statements and tax documents.
- Collect any additional materials specific to your visa category.
2. Submit Your Application
Double-check everything against the Common Application Errors section to ensure accuracy. Submitting early helps you avoid delays caused by processing times.
3. Follow Up After Submission
- Keep your submission receipt in a safe place.
- Stay alert for updates via phone or email.
- Make copies of all submitted documents for your records.
Remember, the Tokurei Kikan should only be used as a last resort, as emphasized in the Application Timing section.
If your case is complicated, it’s wise to consult your local immigration office for guidance. Sticking to these steps not only boosts your chances of approval but also sets a strong foundation for future visa renewals. Successfully navigating this process repeatedly can bring you closer to qualifying for long-term residence [2].
FAQs
What documents do I need for a visa extension in Japan?
To apply for a visa extension in Japan, you’ll need to provide the following essential documents:
- Application Form
- Valid Passport
- Residence Card
- Photo
- Revenue Stamp
Depending on your visa type, additional documents are required:
For Student Visas:
- Certificate of enrollment
- Academic transcript
For Work Visas:
- Employment verification
- Salary history
For Dependent Visas:
- Proof of relationship to the primary visa holder
- Copies of the primary visa holder’s residence card and passport
- Sponsor’s financial documents
For more detailed information, refer to the ‘Documents by Visa Type’ and ‘Financial Requirements’ sections earlier in this guide. Double-check your paperwork for accuracy and review the ‘Common Application Errors’ to avoid mistakes during submission.