If you plan to temporarily leave Japan and re-enter within a short term after your departure, we suggest you leave Japan using a re-entry permit or a special re-entry permit. You will have to return your residence card upon departure if you do not use a re-entry or special re-entry permit.

Note: Those staying in Japan under a short-term visa are not eligible for re-entry or special re-entry permits.

Special Re-entry Permit

The special re-entry system is for foreign residents re-entering Japan within a year of their departure to continue their activities in Japan. Under this system, residents will be waived from having to obtain a re-entry permit at the Immigration Bureau in advance. The following conditions must be met to use this system:

• Possess a valid passport at the time of re-entry
• Possess a residence card at the time of re-entry
• Complete re-entry within one year of departure*
• Complete re-entry before expiration of your period of stay*

*If you depart from Japan on a special re-entry permit, you will not be able to extend the permit while abroad. You will lose your resident status by failing to re-enter Japan within one year of departure.

*If your period of stay is due to expire soon, please apply for an extension before you leave Japan.

Re-Entry Permit

With a re-entry permit, you do not have to return your residence card at the airport when you depart. When you re-enter Japan, your status of residence and period of stay will be treated as continuing from the time you left Japan.

There are two types of re-entry permits: single re-entry and multiple re-entry. The single re-entry permit allows for one re-entry into Japan. The multiple re-entry permit allows for re-entry any number of times as long as the permit is effective. The re-entry permit is effective for a maximum of 5 years or until your period of stay expires, whichever comes first. The fees differ for each type. Re-entry permits can be issued on the day of application at the Immigration Bureau.

Last updated August 8, 2023