How to Renew a Gijinkok Work Visa in Japan (2026 Step-by-Step Guide)
Based on official ISA guidelines and 2026 processing data. Last updated: June 2026.
- Apply 3 months before expiry — on the first eligible day given 2026 processing times
- Key documents: renewal application form + passport + residence card + employer documents + tax/insurance records
- For applications filed on or after April 15, 2026, some Category 3 and Category 4 sponsoring organizations must submit additional employer-related documents. This change is separate from JLPT certification.
- If still waiting after expiry: get the extension sticker from the Immigration Bureau
- After approval: visit Immigration Bureau to receive your new residence card (bring 収入印紙 / revenue stamp)
- Overview: What Renewing a Gijinkoku Visa Involves
- Step 1 — Confirm Your Eligibility and Timing
- Step 2 — Gather Your Documents
- Step 3 — Complete the Application Form
- Step 4 — Submit to the Immigration Bureau
- Step 5 — Receive Your New Residence Card
- While Waiting: What to Do
- Employer Document Changes in 2026
- FAQ
1. Overview: What Renewing a Gijinkoku Visa Involves
Renewing your Engineer / Specialist in Humanities / International Services visa (技人国) in Japan means filing an Extension of Period of Stay application (在留期間更新許可申請). The goal is to keep the same status category while extending the expiry date on your residence card.
You are not changing your visa type, and you do not need to leave Japan to renew. The entire process happens within Japan, and you can continue working throughout the review period (as long as you filed before your expiry date).
Step 1 — Confirm Your Eligibility and Timing
- Check your residence card expiry date — this is when your renewal window opens and closes
- Your renewal window opens exactly 3 months before the expiry date
- You cannot apply earlier than the 3-month mark (applications will be returned)
- In 2026, apply on the first day of the 3-month window — do not wait
Your employer is classified as Category 1 (listed companies), Category 2 (large companies), Category 3 (mid-size), or Category 4 (small / new companies). Categories 1 and 2 require fewer documents. Ask your HR department which category applies.
Step 2 — Gather Your Documents
All applicants
- 在留期間更新許可申請書 (renewal application form) — ISA format, available online or at immigration bureau
- Passport (current, valid)
- Residence card (在留カード)
- Photo — 4cm × 3cm, taken within 3 months, white background
Category 1 & 2 employers (large / listed companies)
- Certificate proving category classification (e.g., listing in 四季報, official designation)
Category 3 & 4 employers (mid / small companies)
- Employment certificate (在職証明書) from employer
- Source withholding certificate (源泉徴収票) from previous year
- 住民税の課税証明書 and 納税証明書 (municipal tax records)
- Health insurance card copy
- Company registration certificate (登記事項証明書 — issued within 3 months)
- Latest 2 years of company financial statements
Since 2024, ISA cross-checks pension and tax records for every application. Any gap or unpaid balance will be flagged. Ensure all payments are current before submitting.
Step 3 — Complete the Application Form
Download the renewal application form (在留期間更新許可申請書) from ISA's official website →
- Fill in all fields in black ink or digitally (printed form)
- Your name must match exactly as written on your passport
- Address must match your current registered address (住民票)
- Employment details must match your employment contract exactly
- Attach your photo to the designated space
- Sign and date the form
Step 4 — Submit to the Immigration Bureau
Submit your complete application to the regional immigration bureau that has jurisdiction over your residence address. For Tokyo, this is the Tokyo Regional Immigration Services Bureau (品川).
- In person: Take a numbered ticket at the bureau. Bring originals of all documents plus photocopies where required.
- By mail: Some application types can be submitted by mail. Check ISA's current guidance.
- Via administrative scrivener: Licensed scriveners can submit on your behalf (申請取次) — useful for complex cases or if you can't take time off work.
After submission, you'll receive an application receipt (申請受理票). Keep this document safe — it proves your legal status during the review period.
Step 5 — Receive Your New Residence Card
When your application is approved, you'll receive a postcard notification (はがき) telling you to collect your new residence card.
- Bring the notification postcard, your passport, your current residence card, and a revenue stamp (収入印紙) worth ¥4,000 (available at post offices and some convenience stores)
- Visit the immigration bureau and present these items at the counter
- Receive your new residence card with an updated expiry date
- Update your employer's HR records immediately
While Waiting: What to Do
- Keep your application receipt (申請受理票) with you at all times
- If your expiry date passes during the review, visit the bureau to get an extension sticker
- Notify your bank proactively if your card appears expired
- Do not travel abroad between your expiry date and receiving your new card without specialist advice
- If you receive a request for additional documents (追加書類), respond immediately
JLPT and General Work Visa Renewal
JLPT certification is not listed as a general requirement for extending an Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services status. Japanese ability may still matter for the job itself and can qualify for points under the Highly Skilled Professional system. For applications filed on or after April 15, 2026, some Category 3 and Category 4 sponsoring organizations must submit additional employer-related documents. This change is separate from JLPT certification.
9. FAQ
Q. My renewal is for a 3-year card but I only received 1 year. Why?
A 1-year grant usually signals that the officer found a concern — commonly a compliance gap, borderline activity match, or an employer with uncertain financial stability. Resolve whatever triggered it before your next renewal, and the grant period should improve.
Q. I submitted my renewal but my employer just went bankrupt. What do I do?
Contact the Immigration Bureau immediately and explain the situation. You may be able to withdraw your application and file under a new employer, or request a "job search" permission period. Do not simply wait — proactive communication is critical.
Q. Do I need to pay any fee when I submit my application?
No fee is paid at submission. The ¥4,000 revenue stamp is paid only when you collect your approved new residence card. If the application is denied, no fee is charged.
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Renewing your visa in Japan?
Check the requirements, timing and documents you may need before your current status expires.