Relief for Overstayers:
What Is the "Departure Order System"?
Turn yourself in and you may return in just 1 year
You can leave without being detained, and the re-entry ban is shorter. Utilizing the "Departure Order System" offers significant benefits.
Procedure Flow (Approx. 2 weeks)
If you have family in Japan and absolutely do not want to be separated, there may be cases where you should pursue Special Permission for Residence rather than a departure order. Please consult with a specialist.
Under deportation (forced removal), the re-entry ban period is 5 to 10 years, but under a departure order, it is only 1 year. This is a significant advantage for those who wish to return to Japan.
Five Requirements for the Departure Order System
All of the following must be satisfied.
- Voluntarily appeared at Immigration
*Not applicable if apprehended by police first. - No violations other than overstaying
- Not sentenced to imprisonment for theft or similar offenses
- No prior deportation or departure order history
*Repeat offenders are not eligible. - Departure from Japan is certain to occur promptly
*Arrangements such as purchasing a flight ticket are required in advance.
Procedure Flow and Important Notes
1. Where to Appear
In principle, you must appear at one of the Immigration offices in Sapporo, Sendai, Tokyo, Yokohama, Nagoya, Osaka, Kobe, Hiroshima, Takamatsu, Fukuoka, or Naha.
2. Violation Investigation / Interview
An interview will be conducted. You must never give false statements. It is important to be honest and show remorse.
3. Order Issuance & Departure
If eligible, you will not be detained. You will receive a departure order and leave Japan. The process from appearance to departure takes approximately 2 weeks.
[Caution] If You Want to Stay in Japan
If you have circumstances such as not wanting to be separated from your family in Japan, it may be better to pursue "Special Permission for Residence" within the deportation proceedings rather than opting for a departure order. Careful judgment is required.