How to Change Your Visa Status in Japan (Step-by-Step)
So your situation in Japan has changed. New job type, got married, starting a business — whatever it is, your current visa might not cover it anymore. Here’s what you actually need to do. Do You Even Need to Change? You need to apply for a Change of Status of Residence (在留資格変更許可申請) when your life situation shifts in a way your current visa doesn’t cover: Situation Change needed New job is a different category from your current visa e.g., Factory → Office work Getting married to a Japanese national To spouse visa Starting your own company To business manager visa Graduating and starting work From student visa to work visa Switching from technical intern to Tokutei Gino Visa category change If you’re not sure whether your situation requires a change, the safest move is to ask an immigration lawyer. Better to ask now than figure it out after you’ve already started the wrong job. ...