Job Discussion Forums

Nismo · Joined: 27 Jul 2004 Posts: 520

I have to renew my work visa soon. I am aware that while renewing it I am not free to leave the country. I intend to travel outside of the country soon, so I am wondering how long the renewal process takes on average? I've heard anywhere from between 2 weeks and 2 months. What was the time span for you?

angrysoba · Joined: 20 Jan 2006 Posts: 446 Location: Kansai, Japan

I had my visa renewed in Osaka. It took about two weeks.

Zzonkmiles · Joined: 05 Apr 2003 Posts: 309

I switched from a work visa to a spouse visa, also in Osaka. Took me 2 weeks as well. Don't know about Nagoya though.

womblingfree · Joined: 04 Mar 2006 Posts: 826

Does anyone know why sometimes they renew you for three years and other times for one?

It seems to be completely random.

Glenski · Joined: 15 Jan 2003 Posts: 12844 Location: Hokkaido, JAPAN

Nobody knows except immigration.

azarashi sushi · Joined: 23 Jan 2003 Posts: 562 Location: Shinjuku

I also have to renew my visa at the end of AUgust and I plan to travel during my summer vaction. How far in advance can you renew a visa? What's the latest that you can renew a visa? Is it OK to hand in the paperwork a couple of days before it expires?

Sweetsee · Joined: 11 Jun 2004 Posts: 2302 Location: ) is everything

Depends where, Tokyo being swamped could take up to 4 months or more. Doesn't hurt to phone them, either.

Most are given 3-year-visas these days.

Can apply within 2 months and up to expiration.