Up until recently, only immigration lawyers and companies have been able to use the Japan Immigration’s online system. But as of March 2022, eligible foreign residents in Japan are able to use the Immigration Services Agency of Japan’s Online system to apply for things like visa status extensions and changes of visa type. Yes, ONLINE VISA RENEWAL!
This online visa renewal system has made things so much more convenient and comfortable for applicants.
There is 24 hour access and your new resident card will even be mailed to you!
To be honest, the process is not difficult, but the information is spread out, and can be a little difficult to understand. But once you know what to prepare, and the steps in the process, it is actually quite straightforward.
What to prepare beforehand
- My Number card
- Resident card
- Computer
- IC Card reader*
- JPKI Client software**
**The JPKI Client software can be downloaded from here.
What documents are needed for the the actual application
Similar to when the application or renewal is done at a physical Immigration Office, the necessary documents will need to be put together beforehand.
This post has useful links on visa preparation documents.
What the process is like
1. MyNumber card
You should already have your Resident card, so you would need to apply for your MyNumber card if you do not have one yet. And to be clear, it has to be the plastic card, not the paper notification one.
I am going to assume that you have access to a computer, and explain the next points and things to look out for.
2. IC Card Reader
These card readers can be purchased on Amazon, so aren’t difficult to get. But my advice is to look through the List of IC Card Readers in the link in the “What to prepare beforehand” to make it’s one of the acceptable ones before you order it.
3. JPKI Client Software
When trying to download the software, be aware that it is only in Japanese, so if the words are not displaying correctly, you might need to use a computer that was bought in Japan.
Also, make sure that you select the download from the Browser Users version!
4. Register to use the system.
You need to register as a user, but note that the system may not be able to handle/accept certain email addresses (eg. gmail). If you do not receive any notification saying that the registration has been completed, my advice would be to call them and explain the situation. They will ask you for a different email address and an email will then be sent to that new email address.
5. Get all the necessary documents together
6. Scan and make sure that all the documents you are submitting are in ONE LONG PDF!
This is really important as you are only going to be able to submit one PDF!
7. Apply for the online visa renewal /change of status/extension.
8. Print out the certificate of payment of fee
9. If everything goes well, you will get an email with information on the next steps.
Basically, you will need to get a Revenue stamp (from a post office) and stick it on the Certificate of payment of fee document. Then, you will need to put your current resident card in the envelope and send it to Immigration via Simple Registered Mail (簡易書留). You will also need to make sure that you have paid for the return envelope as well, as they will mail your new card to you using the envelope you prepared.
That’s it!
Good Luck and let me know how it goes!
Useful links:
Foreign residents with a MyNumber card can now complete applications online
User registration for Residency applications
Making online residency applications