Visa8 min read
Visa Expired in Japan: What to Do Next (2026 Guide)
Complete guide on what to do if your visa expires in Japan. Learn about grace periods, extension procedures, and how to avoid overstay penalties.
Published: 1/10/2026•Updated: 1/15/2026
Key Takeaways
- There is no grace period - overstay begins immediately after visa expiry
- Don't hide or run - it will make your situation worse
- Contact an immigration professional immediately
- Voluntary departure may result in shorter re-entry bans
- Special Permission for Residence may be available in some cases
What Happens When Your Visa Expires in Japan?
If your visa (status of residence) expires while you're in Japan, you enter what's called "overstay" status. This is a serious immigration violation that can result in:
• Detention at an immigration facility
• Deportation (forced removal) from Japan
• Re-entry ban of 1-10 years depending on circumstances
• Criminal penalties including fines up to ¥300,000 However, don't panic. There are legal options available if you act quickly and honestly.
• Detention at an immigration facility
• Deportation (forced removal) from Japan
• Re-entry ban of 1-10 years depending on circumstances
• Criminal penalties including fines up to ¥300,000 However, don't panic. There are legal options available if you act quickly and honestly.
How Long is the Grace Period After Visa Expiry?
Technically, there is no official grace period after your visa expires. You become an overstayer the moment your status of residence expires.
However, Immigration considers several factors:
• How long you've overstayed (days vs months vs years)
• Why you overstayed (forgot vs intentional)
• Your actions after realizing the overstay
• Your ties to Japan (family, employment history) Important: If you overstayed for less than a few days and immediately report to Immigration, you may receive more lenient treatment.
• How long you've overstayed (days vs months vs years)
• Why you overstayed (forgot vs intentional)
• Your actions after realizing the overstay
• Your ties to Japan (family, employment history) Important: If you overstayed for less than a few days and immediately report to Immigration, you may receive more lenient treatment.
What Should You Do Immediately?
Step 1: Don't run or hide
Attempting to evade authorities will make your situation much worse.
Step 2: Gather your documents
• Passport
• Expired residence card
• Any documentation explaining your situation Step 3: Contact a professional An immigration lawyer or certified administrative scrivener (行政書士) can advise you on the best course of action. Step 4: Consider voluntary departure In some cases, voluntarily departing Japan results in shorter re-entry bans than being forcibly deported.
• Passport
• Expired residence card
• Any documentation explaining your situation Step 3: Contact a professional An immigration lawyer or certified administrative scrivener (行政書士) can advise you on the best course of action. Step 4: Consider voluntary departure In some cases, voluntarily departing Japan results in shorter re-entry bans than being forcibly deported.
Can You Apply for Special Permission to Stay?
Yes, in certain circumstances, you can apply for Special Permission for Residence (在留特別許可).
You may qualify if:
• You're married to a Japanese citizen or permanent resident
• You have Japanese children
• You've lived in Japan for many years with strong community ties
• Deportation would cause extreme hardship The application process is complex and typically requires professional legal assistance.
• You're married to a Japanese citizen or permanent resident
• You have Japanese children
• You've lived in Japan for many years with strong community ties
• Deportation would cause extreme hardship The application process is complex and typically requires professional legal assistance.
How to Prevent Visa Expiry in the Future
• Set calendar reminders 3 months before expiry
• Apply for extension early (you can apply up to 3 months before expiry)
• Keep your residence card visible in your wallet
• Update your address with Immigration within 14 days of moving
• Understand your visa conditions and don't violate them
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, you cannot renew an expired visa. You must either apply for Special Permission for Residence, depart Japan voluntarily, or face deportation proceedings.
The re-entry ban is typically 5 years for voluntary departure, and up to 10 years for deportation. In some cases with special circumstances, it may be reduced to 1 year.
No. Working without valid status of residence is a separate violation that can result in additional criminal penalties and longer re-entry bans.
Last updated: January 15, 2026