Visa Renewal Q&A
Timing, Duration, Fees, Special Period
4 Frequently Asked Questions
From application timing to fees, we'll alleviate your concerns.
When can I apply?
Approximately 3 months before the residence status expiration date.
How long does the review take?
Standard is '2 weeks to 1 month'.
What if the deadline expires during review?
It will not be an overstay. It will be extended by up to 2 months with a 'special period'.
How much is the fee?
Paid upon approval. From October 1, 2026, the fee depends on the period of stay granted.
※No fee if your application is denied before your status expires. If it is denied during the special period, you usually change to "Designated Activities" to prepare for departure, and that change has a fee.
Hello everyone. I'm Shizuka Wakabayashi, an Immigration Specialist.
This time, I will answer your specific procedural questions in an easy-to-understand Q&A format.
Q1. When can I apply for renewal?
A1. You can apply approximately three months before your residence status expires.
Example: If the deadline is December 10, 2025, applications will be accepted from September 10, 2025.
Advice:
Since it can take time to obtain documents such as tax certificates, we strongly recommend preparing early so you can apply as soon as the three-month mark arrives.
Q2. How long does the review take?
A2. The standard processing period is '2 weeks to 1 month'.
※This is just a standard period. It may take longer if it involves a job change or depending on the immigration office's congestion.
Q3. Will I be an overstay if my residence status expires during the review?
A3. No, you will not. Please rest assured.
Q4. How much is the application fee?
A4. You pay when your application is approved (when you receive your new card). From October 1, 2026, the amount depends on the period of stay granted.
| Period of stay granted | Counter | Online |
|---|---|---|
| 6 months | 18,000 JPY | 15,000 JPY |
| 1 year | 33,000 JPY | 27,000 JPY |
| 3 years | 64,000 JPY | 56,000 JPY |
| 5 years | 75,000 JPY | 65,000 JPY |
For every category (3 months or less to 5 years or more) and total cost estimates, see "October 2026 Fee Revision: How Much Are Visa Renewal, Change and Permanent Residence Fees?"
- Applications received by September 30, 2026 pay the old fee (6,000 JPY at the counter / 5,500 JPY online).
- Counter applications are paid with revenue stamps. Online applications are paid at a convenience store or by bank payment (plus a small payment fee).
- If your application is denied before your status expires, there is no fee. If it is denied during the special period, you usually change to "Designated Activities" to prepare for departure, and that change has a fee (usually 10,000 JPY, the "3 months or less" category).
Summary
- Prepare early, apply 3 months in advance
- Standard review period is 2 weeks to 1 month
- With a special period, you can rest assured even if your deadline expires during review
- Fees are paid upon approval (from October 2026: 10,000–75,000 JPY depending on the period of stay)
Need help with this procedure?
Free 30-minute initial consultation. Online support nationwide and from overseas. Evenings and weekends available.