Visa Problems in Japan
Visa denied, renewal rejected, or facing immigration issues? We can help.
Last updated: January 16, 2026
Key Takeaways
- Visa denials are common but often fixable with the right approach
- Overstay is the most urgent issue - act immediately
- Professional help (immigration lawyer/gyoseishoshi) greatly improves success rates
- Gather all rejection documents before seeking help
Common Visa Problems We Help With
Visa Renewal Denied
Your visa renewal application was rejected by immigration. This can happen due to missing documents, employment changes, or other issues.
Certificate of Eligibility (COE) Rejected
Your COE application was denied. Common reasons include sponsor issues, document inconsistencies, or application errors.
Overstay / Expired Visa
Your visa has expired or you're in overstay status. This is urgent and needs immediate attention.
Change of Status Denied
Your application to change visa status was rejected. This often happens when switching from student to work visa.
What Should I Do If My Visa Is Denied?
When Should I Hire an Immigration Professional?
Immigration Lawyer vs Administrative Scrivener
| Immigration Lawyer (弁護士) | Administrative Scrivener (行政書士) | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | ¥150,000 - ¥500,000+ | ¥50,000 - ¥150,000 |
| Court representation | ✓ Yes | ✗ No |
| Appeals handling | ✓ Full representation | △ Limited |
| Document preparation | ✓ Yes | ✓ Specialized |
| Best for | Complex cases, deportation | Standard applications, renewals |
Step-by-Step: What to Do After Visa Denial
- 1
Collect your documents
Get the denial notice, your current visa, passport, and any supporting documents you submitted.
- 2
Understand the denial reason
Read the denial notice carefully. If it's unclear, you can ask immigration for clarification.
- 3
Assess your timeline
Check your current visa expiry date. You may have limited time to respond or appeal.
- 4
Evaluate your options
Decide whether to re-apply, appeal, or seek professional help based on your situation.
- 5
Prepare corrected application
If re-applying, address all issues mentioned in the denial and strengthen weak points.
- 6
Submit and follow up
Submit your new application and keep copies of everything. Follow up if you don't hear back.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visa Problems
In most cases, yes. If you've filed a proper appeal within the deadline, you can remain in Japan with 'designated activities' status while it's being processed. However, you should confirm this with immigration as each case is different.
Appeals typically take 1-3 months, but complex cases can take 6 months or more. During this time, you cannot work unless you have special permission.
A single denial doesn't permanently affect your record, but immigration does keep records. If you address the issues properly in your next application, you can still be approved.
Sometimes yes. If you qualify for a different visa category (e.g., spouse visa instead of work visa), you may be able to apply for that instead of appealing the original denial.
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