始Chapter 01 · Start here
Prepare your visa application
Official document checklists from ISA, an AI-generated motivation letter (Riyuusho), and a ZIP export ready for your appointment.
Start here · 3 steps
Build your visa application file
Pick your visa type, tick off the official ISA documents, then draft your reason letter.
Step 1 / 3
Choose your visa typeWhere it's issued, what to report
14 daysFeesPaid with a revenue stamp
3 feesGood to knowStudent → work, airport stamp
2 tipsSelect your visa type
Are you applying for the first time or renewing?
I'm applying for my first visa
Visa Finder Quiz
What is your main reason for being in Japan?
All visa types
Work
4 visasFamily
2 visasStudy
1 visaLong-term
2 visasAlready here
2 visasBefore you go to immigration
Your residence card (在留カード)
Arrival
Issued at the airport
- New Chitose
- Sendai
- Narita
- Haneda
- Chubu
- Kansai
- Kobe
- Hiroshima
- Fukuoka
- Naha
Other airports: mailed after you register your address at the ward office.
You move
Report the new address
14 days
Ward office
You lose it
Request a reissue
14 days
Immigration
Visa renewed
You get a new card
Its expiry matches your period of stay.
Keep it on you at all times — it is your official ID in Japan.
Fees & processing time
- Status change / renewal在留資格変更・期間更新¥5,500 online¥6,000
- Permanent residence永住許可¥9,000 online¥10,000
- Certificate of Eligibility (COE)在留資格認定証明書 (COE)Free
Pay window applications with a revenue stamp (収入印紙), bought at a post office or some convenience stores; online applications are slightly cheaper. Rough timing: COE ~1–3 months; a change/renewal takes a few weeks to ~2 months. Apply before your current status expires (renewals open ~3 months ahead). Fees revised April 2025.
告This tool provides general guidance. For your specific situation, consult a licensed immigration specialist (gyoseishoshi).
Keep your visa & residence documents in one place.
The Vault reads, files and protects your documents — and helps with the next form.
Discover the Vault