Visas and residence status
Can I leave Japan temporarily and keep my residence status?
Usually, yes. With a valid passport and residence card, you can use the free special re-entry permission (みなし再入国許可) if you return within one year and before your permitted stay expires. At departure, show both documents and indicate that you intend to return on the re-entry departure card.
For a longer absence, apply for a regular re-entry permit before leaving Japan. It can be valid for up to five years, within your permitted stay. The standard counter fee is ¥4,000 for a single-entry permit or ¥7,000 for multiple entries. Confirm the procedure before departure; leaving without the appropriate re-entry permission can end your residence status.
What may vary
Special re-entry permission cannot be extended from abroad. It does not cover Temporary Visitors or stays of three months or less. If an extension application is pending, confirm your return deadline with immigration. Special permanent residents follow different rules.
Checked on Effective from
Sources
- Immigration Services Agency of Japan
- yuzu.help — published