Immigration Services Agency

Anyone managing an actual residence status, visa extension or residence card procedure in Japan, not just researching the rules.

Works in English

Partly: The agency's main procedure pages are in Japanese; some guidance is published in English.

Cost

Free

Platforms

Web

What it does

The official starting point for finding residence procedures and forms. Use it to locate the procedure relevant to your situation, not to infer eligibility from a general checklist.

The procedure directory separates applications such as extensions and changes of residence status from residence-card procedures and notifications. These are different tasks. The agency’s entry and residence guide explains that documents depend on the application and intended activities.

The catch

This directory page does not assess which status you qualify for, calculate fees or set your application deadline. Read the current official procedure and contact the agency’s information center or a qualified professional when your circumstances need interpretation.

Cost and plans

Official information can be consulted without a directory subscription. Application charges depend on the procedure; check the current agency instructions for the relevant amount and payment method. We do not reproduce a fee schedule here because it can change.

How to get started

1. Open the official procedure directory and identify the type of application or notification.
2. Read the linked procedure and its current forms and required-document guidance.
3. Use the official inquiry route if you cannot determine which procedure applies. Do not submit personal documents to Japan Toolbox.

Sources

• Official procedure directory (Japanese)
• Agency guide: procedures for entry and residence (English PDF)

Checked 2026-11-02. Prices and conditions change, check the official source before relying on this.