Ministry of Justice Guidelines
8 Checkpoints for Renewal Review
Renewal = Performance Review
Have you cleared "all" of the following 8 items?
These are important points based on the Ministry of Justice guidelines.
Hello everyone. I am Shizuka Wakabayashi, an Immigration Specialist.
I will explain the "8 review points" indicated in the Ministry of Justice's "Guidelines for Permission or Non-Permission of Extension of Period of Stay." Renewal is a "report card of your past life in Japan."
① Eligibility for residence status
It is questioned whether "the status or contractual relationship that forms the basis of that residence status still exists."
- Spouse visa: The marital relationship continues.
- Student visa: Student registration continues.
- Work visa: Employment contract, etc., continues.
② Compliance with Landing Permission Standards
Whether you continue to meet the specialized standards from the time of entry, etc., at the time of renewal.
③ Actually Engaging in Permitted Activities
Important! It's not just about being registered; the "actual activities" are strictly scrutinized.
- Spouse visaIs there actual cohabitation and mutual cooperation as a married couple?
- Student visaAre attendance rates and grades good?
- Work visaAre you actually performing specialized duties, not simple tasks?
④ Good Conduct
Crimes are, of course, unacceptable
Repeated violations indicate poor conduct
Exceeding 28 hours per week is unacceptable
⑤ Assets and Skills to Support an Independent Livelihood
An economic foundation that allows for independent living without relying on public assistance is required (judged on a household basis).
⑥ Appropriate Employment and Working Conditions
Whether the company has enrolled in social insurance, pays salaries as per the contract, etc.
⑦ Fulfillment of Tax Obligations
This is an absolute condition.
Payment of resident tax, in particular, is mandatory. If there is even one year of delinquency, renewal will generally be denied.
⑧ Notification Obligations Stipulated by the Immigration Control Act
- Notification of "Place of Residence" when moving (within 14 days)
- Notification of "Affiliated Organization" upon resignation/job change (within 14 days)
Summary
These 8 points are "common-sense rules," but daily adherence leads to a smooth renewal. If you have any concerns, do not ignore them; please consult with a specialist.