55.06 Immigration Status Maintenance
Why it matters
Work and student residents cycle through immigration renewals every one to three years. Tracking the eligibility windows, re-entry permit requirements, and document refreshes early keeps status changes routine instead of emergency runs to the regional bureau.
Renewal timelines
- Standard renewal window: Applications open three months before expiry for work, student, and dependent statuses. Filing inside that window preserves your existing status during review; see official-resources for the latest forms.
- Mid-term checks: Immigration can request payslips or attendance reports if they suspect status misuse. Keep employer certificates, attendance logs, and transcript copies aligned with your 55.01 National Tax Agency Payment Calendars and municipal filings.
Required documentation
- Work status: Employer letter of reason, tax withholding slip (源泉徴収票), residence card copy, and recent payslips. Freelancers attach blue/white tax return copies and business activity summaries.
- Student status: Certificate of enrolment, academic transcript or attendance letter, tuition payment proof, and part-time work permission (if applicable).
- Re-entry permits: Holders of valid residence cards qualify for the special re-entry permit (up to one year abroad). Longer trips require applying for a multiple re-entry permit before departure using the Application for Re-entry Permit form.
Official resources
- Immigration Services Agency — Application procedures: Master index for renewal, change of status, and re-entry permit forms.
- Residence card & re-entry permit guidance: English instructions covering departure procedures, special re-entry eligibility, and automated gate enrolment.
- Status of residence for study: Required documents and attendance conditions for student renewals.
- Employment status procedures: Renewal paperwork for engineer/specialist, highly skilled professional, and instructor categories.
Backlinks
- Supports maintenance planning in residency-maintenance-checklist.
- Reference for departure prep in residency-essentials.