International exchange students in Japan who wish to travel outside the country temporarily during their studies can usually do so without applying for a regular re-entry permit in advance. Under the Special Re-entry Permit system, as long as you hold a valid passport and residence card and return to Japan within one year (and before your authorized period of stay expires), you simply need to fill out an ED card at airport departure control. However, if your trip abroad will exceed one year or outlast your remaining period of stay, you must obtain a standard re-entry permit from a regional immigration bureau before leaving.
Understanding these rules ensures you can travel for holidays, family visits, or academic trips without endangering your legal Student status in Japan.
Do international exchange students need a permit to temporarily leave Japan in 2026?
When holding the "Student" status of residence in Japan, departing the country temporarily requires proper immigration approval so that your residence status is not revoked upon departure. Under general rules, foreign residents returning temporarily to their home country or visiting another destination must apply for a re-entry permit at a regional immigration services bureau prior to leaving.
However, Japan provides a simplified procedure known as the Special Re-entry Permit system. Foreign students who possess a valid passport and a valid residence card do not need to visit a regional immigration office beforehand if they plan to re-enter Japan within one year of departure. If your authorized period of stay is shorter than one year, you must return before that period of stay expires.
If your trip outside Japan will last longer than one year, the special exemption does not apply. In that situation, you must apply for a standard re-entry permit at a regional immigration services bureau prior to your departure. Always verify your specific travel timeline and status with the official Study in Japan resource or the Immigration Services Agency before making non-refundable travel plans.
How does the Special Re-entry Permit process work at the airport?
The Special Re-entry Permit procedure is designed to be quick and completed directly at the airport or port of departure. When departing Japan, follow this checklist at the immigration check control:
- Present required identification: Hand your valid passport and original residence card to the immigration officer.
- Complete the departure card: Request and fill out the Embarkation/Disembarkation (ED) Card for Special Re-entry Permit.
- Tick the correct box: Make sure to check the specific column on the ED card indicating that you intend to leave Japan temporarily under the Special Re-entry Permit system and will return.
- Keep your documentation: Retain the stub or stamped card along with your residence card for your return entry to Japan.
Failing to present your residence card or forgetting to tick the special re-entry box on the ED card can result in the automatic forfeiture of your Student status upon departure, forcing you to start the visa process from scratch.
What other immigration rules must international students follow in 2026?
Maintaining your legal status in Japan involves adhering to several strict immigration and administrative procedures throughout your exchange program:
Extension of period of stay
If your study period extends beyond the authorized duration granted upon entry, you must file an application for an extension of stay at a regional immigration services bureau before your original period expires. Applications can typically be submitted starting three months prior to the expiration date. Residing in Japan past your expiration date without renewal leads to illegal stay, which can incur severe penalties, deportation, expulsion from your institution, and the forfeiture of scholarships.
Reporting changes to authorities
You are required to report personal and institutional updates promptly:
- Regional Immigration Services Bureau: Notify immigration if there is any change in your name, gender, date of birth, nationality/region, or educational institution, or if your residence card is lost or damaged.
- Municipal Office (City/Ward Hall): Notify your local municipal office whenever you change your residential address in Japan, as well as before you complete your studies and return permanently to your home country.
Part-time work permits
The "Student" status is granted strictly for educational purposes and does not automatically allow employment. To work part-time, you must receive explicit permission to engage in activities other than permitted. First-time arrivals staying over three months can apply at the airport upon landing permission issuance; otherwise, applications must be submitted at a regional immigration services bureau. Engaging in paid work without official approval results in penalties and deportation.
Maintenance and revocation of status
Your residence status can be revoked if you submit false information or documents. Furthermore, if a student engages in daily work without attending classes without valid justification, their Student status is subject to revocation.
Bringing dependents
Students enrolled in universities can bring dependent spouses and children under the "Dependent" status linked to the student's period of stay. It is recommended to bring dependents only after settling into Japanese life and achieving financial stability, as obtaining Dependent status after entering on a Temporary Visitor visa is difficult.
Finding a place to stay
Arranging accommodation for your exchange period should ideally take place after your visa or Certificate of Eligibility is confirmed and before you land in Tokyo. Having your housing secured in advance ensures a smooth arrival, allowing you to settle in quickly before university orientation and registration at municipal offices. Look for accommodations situated conveniently near public transit and your campus to minimize daily commuting stress.
OHAYO Stay offers furnished monthly apartments and rooms in Tokyo; most homes have a minimum stay of 30 nights (shown on each listing). No guarantor, no key money and no agency fee; booking is online with a passport or ID and a credit card. Selecting a fully prepared home lets you focus immediately on your courses and exploring Japan without administrative hurdles.
FAQ
Do exchange students need to visit immigration before leaving Japan for summer vacation?
No, as long as you hold a valid passport and residence card and return within one year (or before your period of stay expires), you can use the Special Re-entry Permit directly at the airport.
What card do I need to fill out at the airport when departing temporarily?
You must fill out the ED Card for Special Re-entry Permit and tick the column indicating your intention to return under the special re-entry system.
When can I apply to extend my period of stay in Japan?
You can usually submit an application to extend your period of stay at a regional immigration services bureau starting three months before your current authorized stay expires.
Sources
- Study in Japan(JASSO)「Status of Residence｜Study in Japan Official Website」(checked 2026-10-18)
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.