If you want to extend your exchange period or switch to a degree program in Japan, you must manage your status of residence, notify the correct authorities of any changes, and update your scholarship or insurance. These procedures require coordinating with your school and the regional immigration bureau to ensure you remain legally in the country. Navigating these transitions smoothly is essential for continuing your academic journey or starting your career in Japan.
How do I extend my period of stay or change my status in Japan?
To continue staying in Japan beyond the expiration date determined when you entered the country, you must apply for and receive permission to extend your period of stay. This application must be submitted to the regional immigration bureau. If you are changing your activities—such as moving from an exchange program to a full degree program or starting employment—you will need to apply for a Permission for Change of Status of Residence.
When you make changes to your academic or living situation, there are strict notification deadlines you must follow:
- School changes: You must notify the regional immigration services bureau within 14 days of the change.
- Residence changes: You must notify your local municipal office within 14 days of moving to a new address.
To apply for a change in your status of residence, you must visit the nearest regional immigration bureau, bureau branch, or branch office in person. It is highly recommended to call them in advance to confirm their opening hours. You will also need to pay the required application fee. Please note that individual situations vary, and you should always confirm specific requirements with the official source, such as the Immigration Services Agency or the Ministry of Justice.
Can I extend my scholarship or apply for a new one?
If you are currently receiving a scholarship and wish to extend it while studying in Japan, you must consult directly with your school or the scholarship organizer.
If you want to apply for a new scholarship during your transition, you can do so, but you must act quickly. Application deadlines and scholarship start dates vary significantly among different scholarship sponsoring organizations. You should consult your school or the scholarship organization as soon as possible to avoid missing key dates.
What happens if I transition to job hunting or employment after graduation?
If you graduate from your university and plan to work full-time in Japan, you cannot continue under a Student status. You must change your status of residence to a category that permits full-time work before you begin your employment.
Common work statuses include:
- Specialist in the Humanities/International Services
- Engineer
- Researcher
- Investor/Business Manager (for those running their own companies)
- Instructor (for those teaching at Japanese elementary or junior high schools)
To change your status to a work visa like Specialist in the Humanities/International Services or Engineer, you must prepare and submit several documents:
- Your own documents: Your passport, residence card, the Application for Change of Status of Residence, and a resume in any format detailing your educational background and job types.
- Documents from your employer: A copy of your employment contract (or a letter of employment/resignation showing work details, duration, and compensation), a certified copy of the company's commercial register issued within the last 3 months, the company's financial reports (balance sheets and income statements), and company brochures.
- Documents from your university: Your original certificate of graduation or expected graduation.
If you have not secured a job by graduation but wish to continue job hunting in Japan, you must change your status to Designated Activities. This status is granted for 6 months and permits a one-time extension for a maximum of one year. To qualify, you must obtain a letter of recommendation from your school. The required documents for this change include:
- An application form (available at the regional immigration bureau)
- A photograph
- Your passport and residence card
- Documents certifying your ability to pay all of your expenses during your stay
- Documents to authenticate yourself
If you have excellent entrepreneurial skills and wish to start your own company within 6 months of graduation, you can also apply for a Designated Activities status for up to 6 months. This requires a recommendation from your university, securing the necessary funds, stores, or offices, and having the university monitor your activities.
Can I travel abroad or work part-time during this transition?
If you plan to temporarily travel outside Japan or return home during your studies, you can do so without applying for a re-entry permit beforehand, provided you hold a valid passport and residence card and return within 1 year (or before your period of stay expires, if it is less than 1 year). This is known as a deemed re-entry permit. However, depending on your school or scholarship sponsor, you may need to apply for and receive approval in advance. Always check with your school or scholarship organization before departing.
If you wish to work part-time or participate in a paid internship, your Student status does not automatically allow it. You must apply for and obtain "Permission to Engage in Activity other than that Permitted under the Status of Residence" from the regional immigration services bureau.
Finding a place to stay
When extending your studies or transitioning to a new program in Tokyo, arranging your housing should be done once your enrollment or visa status is confirmed. Many newcomers stay in a furnished monthly apartment first to make their transition easier. OHAYO Stay offers furnished monthly apartments and rooms in Tokyo; most homes have a minimum stay of 30 nights (shown on each listing). The monthly price includes electricity, gas, water and Wi-Fi. Booking is online with a passport or ID and a credit card, with no guarantor, no key money, and no agency fee required. This allows you to secure a comfortable home quickly while you focus on your academic and immigration procedures.
FAQ
How long do I have to report a change of school or address?
You must notify the regional immigration services bureau within 14 days for school changes, and your local municipal office within 14 days for residence changes.
Can I work a paid internship while studying?
Yes, but to receive payment for an internship, you must obtain "Permission to Engage in Activity other than that Permitted under the Status of Residence" from the regional immigration bureau.
What is required to stay in Japan for job hunting after graduation?
You must change your status of residence to Designated Activities. This status is granted for 6 months, permits one renewal, and requires a letter of recommendation from your school.
Sources
- Study in Japan(JASSO)「Changing Status of Residence｜Study in Japan Official Website」(checked 2026-10-07)
- Study in Japan(JASSO)「For International Students in Japan｜Study in Japan Official Website」(checked 2026-10-07)
This article was created by OHAYO Stay based on the sources above (edited, reorganized and translated). It is not an official publication.
Rules and dates can change. Always confirm with the official source before you apply.