My main job is to handle online residence application, so I can accept requests from anywhere in Japan or overseas. The biggest advantage of applying for residence online is that it saves the time and cost of going to the local immigration bureau.
However, please note that online applications are not permitted for some application procedures and eligible statuses of residence. The Immigration Bureau has published a list of residence application procedures and statuses of residence that can be applied for online, and conversely, procedures and statuses of residence that are not listed here are not eligible for online applications.
Procedures not eligible for online application
The following residence application procedures cannot be applied for online, so you must apply in person at the Immigration Bureau in your area.
- Permanent residence permit application (however, online application is expected to be possible in 2025)
- Re-entry permit application “not to be made at the same time” as application for Certificate of Eligibility, application for period of stay renewal permission, and application for change of status of residence
- Application for permission to engage in activities other than those permitted by the status of residence “not to be made at the same time” as application for Certificate of Eligibility, application for period of stay renewal permission, and application for change of status of residence
Residence statuses that cannot be applied for online
Applications for the following statuses of residence, including Certificate of Eligibility, application for extension of period of stay, and application for change of status of residence, cannot be made online and must be made in person at the Immigration Bureau.
Regarding applications for permission to change residence status, if either your current residence status or your desired residence status falls under the following conditions, you will not be eligible to apply online.
- Diplomacy
- Temporary Visitor
- Designated Activity not specified in the notice*(Example below)
- Continuing job hunting
- Preparation for departure
- Refugee applicants
*As an exception, for residence status related to designated activities related to specific skills (if you wish to transition to “Specified Skilled Worker No. 1”), you can apply for residence status online.
Others
Applications for permission to change residence status and permission to extend period of stay cannot be made online on the day the residence expires and must be made at a regional immigration bureau.
Summary
As Gyoseishoshi, we need to pay particular attention to these points when setting fees.