Articles
Practical guides and policy updates on visas, permanent residence and koseki records for foreign residents in Japan — written by a licensed gyoseishoshi.
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Looking for an Immigration Lawyer in Japan? Bengoshi and Gyoseishoshi Explained
Looking for an immigration lawyer in Japan? Learn how bengoshi (attorneys) and gyoseishoshi differ, and which one fits your visa application.
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How to Get Your Documents Notarized and Apostilled in Japan for Use Abroad: A Guide for Foreign Residents
How foreign residents in Japan can get a passport, Residence Card, or proof of address notarized and apostilled for use abroad, such as buying property overseas.
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How to Get a Japanese Koseki (Family Register) from Overseas: A Step-by-Step Guide for 2026
Need a koseki for a spouse visa or Nikkei visa? Learn who can request one, how to apply by mail from abroad, and what to do when old registers are hard to find.
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Japan’s Second Basic Plan for Immigration Control and Residence Management: what it could mean for foreign residents
Japan's Second Basic Plan for Immigration Control (July 2026): what it may mean for your taxes, permanent residence, work visa and student status.
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Japan May Tighten Income Requirements for the “Highly Skilled Professional” (HSP) Visa
Japan may raise income requirements for the Highly Skilled Professional (HSP) visa, possibly by March 2027. What has been reported and what is unconfirmed.
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Overview of the Draft Revisions to the Guidelines for Permission for Permanent Residence
Our translation of the overview of the draft PR guideline revisions published on August 4, 2026. The revised guidelines took effect on October 1, 2026.
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Fees for Change of Status, Extension of Stay, and Permanent Residence to Increase from October, 2026
Since October 1, 2026, fees for extension, change of status and permanent residence have risen sharply, with PR fees reaching ¥200,000. See the new fee tiers.
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Special Permission to Stay: What the 2025 Case Examples Show
23 Special Permission to Stay case examples from 2025: how self-reporting, criminal records and years in Japan shaped the outcome. Our analysis of the data.
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Special Permission to Land: What the 2025 Case Examples Show
What do the 14 Special Permission to Land case examples from 2025 reveal? We analyze why some were permitted and others denied.
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ESI Visa Changes in 2026: Language Proof, Dispatch Rules and Where ESI Ends and SSW Begins
What changed for Japan's ESI work visa in 2026: language proof for interpersonal jobs, new rules for dispatched workers, and the line with Specified Skilled Worker.
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Have a question about your own situation?
Our articles cover general rules. For advice on your own situation, a licensed gyoseishoshi can answer your questions in writing or handle your application for you.
Questions about your own situation? Get a written answer from a gyoseishoshi (JPY 13,200, tax incl.) →