· 3 min read
Certificate of Eligibility (COE) in Japan: what it is and how it works
The COE is applied for in Japan before someone moves here. Who files it, where, how long it takes, the fee, and getting it by email.
Certificate of EligibilityWorkJapan immigration paperwork, explained
Plain guides to residence procedures in Japan. Every figure comes from an official page, linked at the end, and each post is re-checked against its sources.
· 3 min read
Immigration fees in Japan: the new amounts from October 2026
The fees for extending your stay, changing your status and permanent residence have changed. The new amounts, and how to pay at the counter and online.
RenewalChange of statusPermanent residence· 3 min read
Online visa renewal in Japan: who can apply and what you need
Many residence applications can be made online instead of at the immigration counter. Who can use the system, what to prepare, the steps and the limits.
RenewalChange of status· 2 min read
Questions for immigration in Japan? Where to ask about your residence
The Immigration Services Agency answers questions by phone, at counters and by email, in many languages. What it can answer, the hours, and FRESC in Tokyo.
Living in Japan· 2 min read
Trips abroad from Japan: re-entry permit and special re-entry permit
Two systems let residents leave Japan and come back on the same status. Who each one covers, how long it lasts, the fee, and what to do at the airport.
Living in Japan· 2 min read
Part-time jobs on a student or dependent visa: hours and permission
Students and dependents need a permission before taking a part-time job in Japan. What it is, the weekly hour limit, where to apply, and the fee.
StudentsFamilyWork· 2 min read
Lost your residence card in Japan? Getting it reissued within 14 days
Lost, stolen or destroyed residence card? Apply for a new one within 14 days at the immigration office. What to bring, who can go for you, and the fee.
NotificationsLiving in Japan· 2 min read
Moved house in Japan? Report your new address within 14 days
Mid- to long-term residents report a new address within 14 days of moving in, usually with one visit to the city office. Who goes, what to bring, and the fee.
NotificationsLiving in Japan· 2 min read
Changed jobs in Japan? The 14-day notification to immigration
Working in Japan on a status such as Engineer / Specialist in Humanities / International Services? Report a job change within 14 days. Who files, and how.
NotificationsWork· 3 min read
Visa renewal in Japan: when to apply, the fee and the wait
How the period of stay extension works: the 3-month window, where to apply, the fee, processing time, and what happens if your stay ends while you wait.
RenewalWorkFamilyStudents