How do you change your status of residence in Japan in 2026?

Typical triggers include graduating and starting a covered job, switching from Dependent to your own work status, moving from study to designated activities, or other ISA-listed paths. Starting paid work on a status that forbids it without permission creates illegal-work risk even if your card still looks valid.

File at the Regional Immigration Services Bureau for your address, or through the online residence application system when you meet My Number Card and MyNaPortal requirements. Permission fees commonly mirror extension pricing (often JPY 6,000 at the counter, JPY 5,500 online when granted). Standard processing often runs about one to two months. Do not begin the new activity until permission is issued unless ISA guidance for your case says otherwise.

Each status has its own checklist. Work routes want employer contracts, company registration extracts and tax history. Family routes want marriage or dependency proof. Student-to-work packs mix graduation papers with the new job file. Passport, current residence card and a matching municipal address trail sit underneath: Register address and Apply for residence.

After permission, update health insurance and pension routes if your employment category changed: Choose health insurance. Banks and employers may ask for the new card: Open a bank account. Japanese-only counters are common: Bureaucracy without Japanese.