🪪 How to Renew Your Residence Card in Japan

 🪪 How to Renew Your Residence Card in Japan 



For anyone living in Japan medium- to long-term, renewing your Residence Card (在留カード / zairyū kādo) is one of the most important procedures. Missing the renewal deadline could even cause you to lose your legal status. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know: when, where, and how to renew your card.

👉 Related: Japan’s Health Insurance System for Foreign Residents

⏰ 1. When to Apply

You can apply for renewal up to 3 months before your current residence card expires.
Many foreign residents make the mistake of waiting until the last moment. If you apply too late, you may face long waiting times or even risk overstaying.

Best practice: mark the expiration date on your calendar and plan to apply 1–2 months before.

🏢 2. Where to Apply

Applications are submitted at your nearest Immigration Services Bureau (入国管理局).

  • Large cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya have main offices.

  • Many prefectures also have branch offices.

📌 Tip: Check your local immigration office’s website for exact location, office hours, and reservation requirements. Some offices allow online reservation to avoid long waits.

📄 3. Required Documents

Here’s what you usually need to prepare:

  • Application form (download from the Immigration Bureau’s website or pick up at the office)

  • Passport

  • Current residence card

  • 1 photo (4cm × 3cm, taken within 3 months, plain background)

  • Additional documents depending on your visa status:

    • Students: Proof of enrollment, transcripts, or attendance records

    • Workers: Employment certificate, contract, or tax documents

    • Dependents: Proof of family relationship and financial support

📌 Make sure all documents are recent. Expired or incomplete documents can delay your application.

👉 Related: Tips for Finding a Part-Time Job in Japan

🖊️ 4. Application Process

  1. Fill out the application form carefully (English instructions are available at most offices).

  2. Submit all documents at the immigration counter.

  3. Receive a receipt/notification slip confirming your application.

  4. Wait for processing (usually a few weeks, but may vary depending on season).

During the waiting period, your current residence card remains valid. Keep your receipt slip safe in case you need to prove your application status.

🎉 5. After Approval

Once approved, immigration will notify you. You’ll need to:

  • Bring your passport and receipt slip

  • Pick up your new residence card

  • Return your old card, which will be invalidated

📌 Important: If you move after applying, make sure immigration has your updated address. Otherwise, you might miss the notification.

⚠️ 6. Important Notes & Common Mistakes

  • Do not delay your renewal. Failing to renew on time could result in losing your legal residence status.

  • Visa vs. Residence Card: Remember, the residence card is proof of your visa status—it does not extend your visa itself. If your visa period is also expiring, you must apply for a visa extension at the same time.

  • Check your city office: After getting a new card, update your information at your city or ward office (住所変更届) if your address has changed.

✅ Conclusion

Renewing your residence card in Japan is a straightforward process as long as you prepare documents early and apply on time.

  • Apply up to 3 months in advance

  • Submit documents at your local Immigration Bureau

  • Don’t forget additional papers based on your visa type

  • Always check whether your visa itself also requires extension

By following these steps, you’ll ensure a smooth renewal process and peace of mind while living in Japan.

👉 Next: Public Etiquette in Japan: What Foreign Residents Should Know


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