🕒 AS OF September, 2026
TL;DR Link to heading
- What is the Online system for applying for residence status: An official system operated by the Immigration Services Agency of Japan that allows online completion of residence status applications and notifications.
- Not available to everyone: Primarily intended for foreign nationals themselves, company representatives, lawyers, administrative scriveners, etc. In many cases, a My Number Card or user registration is required.
- Major advantages: Applications can be submitted 24 hours a day without visiting a counter. The obligation to appear in person is generally waived, and application status can be checked online.
- Points to note: Applications cannot be submitted on the final day of the period of stay. Some applications and residence statuses are not covered, so prior confirmation is essential.
What is the Online Residence Application System? Link to heading
In short, it is “an official system that allows residence status procedures to be completed from a computer without visiting an immigration office counter.”
Procedures that previously required visiting a regional immigration services office in person—such as extension of period of stay, change of residence status, and application for a Certificate of Eligibility—can now mostly be completed online from home or the office. There is no usage fee, and applications can be submitted 24 hours a day, 365 days a year (except during maintenance).
Who can use it? Link to heading
The main eligible users are as follows:
- Staff of affiliated organizations (companies, schools, etc.)
- Lawyers and administrative scriveners
- Staff of public interest corporations and registered support organizations
- Foreign nationals themselves (mid- to long-term residents aged 15 or older)
- Legal representatives and relatives (spouse, children, parents, etc., under certain conditions)
Foreign nationals and their relatives generally need a My Number Card. Affiliated organizations and professionals may need approval or notification as an “application agent.”
Available procedures and exclusions Link to heading
The main applications that can be submitted online are:
- Application for Certificate of Eligibility
- Application for Change of Status of Residence
- Application for Extension of Period of Stay
- Application for Permission to Acquire Status of Residence
- Application for Certificate of Authorized Employment
- Re-entry Permit and Permission to Engage in Activity Other Than That Permitted (can be applied for simultaneously under certain conditions)
Applicable residence statuses cover a wide range, including “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services,” “Specified Skilled Worker,” “Student,” and “Technical Intern Training.” However, statuses such as “Diplomat,” “Temporary Visitor,” and “Designated Activities (period for preparation for departure)” are excluded. In addition, permanent residence applications and changes to the information on the residence card cannot be processed online.
Application process Link to heading
- Access the official website (Immigration Services Agency “Online Procedures for Residence Applications” page)
- Register as a user and obtain a user ID
- Submit a “Usage Application” if required and obtain approval
- Log in, enter the application details, attach the necessary documents, and submit
- Confirm the application receipt number and check the examination status in the system
Notes Link to heading
- Applications cannot be submitted on the final day of the period of stay (the expiration date itself)
Be sure to apply with sufficient time to spare. On the final day, applications are only accepted at the counter. - The recommended browser is Microsoft Edge (Chromium version). Using a smartphone may cause display issues, so a computer is recommended.
- Email notifications are sent from “@rasens-immi.moj.go.jp.” Please check your spam settings.
- When a foreign national applies under certain residence statuses, an application form prepared by the affiliated organization must be attached separately.