Visa Renewal, Change of Status & Permanent Resident Card Renewal Support
From period of stay extensions to change of status applications due to job changes, and the acquisition of certificates of authorized employment for mid-career hires, our specialists provide comprehensive support to help you continue living and working smoothly in Japan.
We also handle residence card renewal applications for Permanent Residents. While permanent resident status itself does not expire, renewing your residence card before its expiration date ensures compliance and peace of mind.
- Extension of Period of Stay (Work visas, Dependent visas, etc.)
- Residence Card Renewal Applications for Permanent Residents
- Application for Certificate of Authorized Employment (Job changes / employer updates)
- Preparation of employment reasons and business plans for renewals or status changes
- Response support for additional document requests and inquiries from Immigration Bureau
- Recovery (re-application) support for previously denied cases
When is a Visa Renewal or Change Required?
When Your Visa Expiration is Approaching
You need to apply for an Extension of Period of Stay before your current work visa, dependent visa, or other status expires (applications are accepted from 3 months prior).
When Your Permanent Resident Card Expires
Permanent Residents must renew their residence card when the expiration date printed on the card approaches (typically every 7 years for adults).
When Changing or Leaving Jobs
When changing employers or job duties, you may need a Certificate of Authorized Employment or other status updates to ensure your new work fits your visa category.
When Your Employer or Workplace Changes
If your employer changes due to company restructuring or job relocation while keeping the same visa, required notifications or updates must be submitted to Immigration.
When Your Activities in Japan Change
If your purpose of stay or contractual arrangements change and risk falling outside your current visa scope, or if you need to switch to a more appropriate status.
When Additional Documents are Requested
If you receive a notice for submission of additional materials (such as a questionnaire) from the Immigration Bureau and need to submit explanatory materials promptly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Generally, applications are accepted starting 3 months before your current expiration date. Waiting until the last minute can cause risks of overstaying due to preparation or screening delays, so we recommend consulting and applying early.
Your permanent resident status itself does not disappear, but leaving your residence card expired may violate the Immigration Control Act. Permanent Residents must also renew their card before the expiration date shown on the card. Our office can handle this application on your behalf.
If your renewal application is lawfully accepted before your expiration date, you are legally permitted to stay in Japan under a special extension period until a decision is reached (or up to 2 months after expiration). However, applying well in advance ensures peace of mind.
You are legally required to notify the Immigration Bureau regarding your affiliation (job change) within 14 days of leaving your previous company. If you are unsure whether your new job duties fit your current visa, obtaining a Certificate of Authorized Employment beforehand is recommended.
For Business Manager visa renewals, stability and continuity of the business (sales, profits, tax compliance, secure office premises) are strictly reviewed. If losses continue, detailed business improvement plans are required, making early consultation with a professional essential.
Yes, it has a significant negative impact. Tax certificates showing no arrears (such as resident and income taxes) are required, and unpaid taxes dramatically increase the risk of visa denial. Any arrears should be settled or arranged for installment payment before applying.
Please do not give up and feel free to consult with us. We can analyze the exact reasons for denial, implement appropriate measures, and re-apply to successfully secure approval in many cases. Our office has a strong track record in handling denied cases.