If you plan to leave Japan temporarily during your studies in 2026, you generally do not need to visit an immigration bureau in advance if your trip is under one year. As long as you possess a valid passport and residence card, you can use the Special Re-entry Permit system by checking the designated box on the embarkation card at departure. However, if you will be away for more than one year, you must apply for a standard re-entry permit at a regional immigration services bureau before you depart.
Do international students need a re-entry permit to leave Japan in 2026?
When leaving Japan temporarily during your studies, your immigration obligations depend on the length of time you plan to stay abroad. International students with a valid passport and residence card who plan to return within one year do not need to obtain a standard re-entry permit prior to departure. This exception is known as the Special Re-entry Permit system.
To use this simplified process, your return to Japan must occur within one year of leaving or before your current period of authorized stay expires, whichever comes first. If your authorized period of stay ends in less than twelve months, you must return before that expiration date.
If you plan to remain outside Japan for longer than one year while keeping your Student residence status active, you cannot use the special system. Instead, you must submit a formal application for a standard re-entry permit at a regional immigration services bureau before leaving the country.
How do you use the Special Re-entry Permit system at departure?
Utilizing the special re-entry system is handled directly at the airport or exit port during departure procedures.
At the exit line, present your valid passport and residence card to the immigration officer. You must also complete the ED Card for Special Re-entry Permit (Embarkation/Disembarkation card). On this form, tick the specific column indicating that you intend to re-enter Japan using the special re-entry permit system. If you fail to present your residence card or do not tick this box, you risk forfeiting your residence status when you leave.
What other immigration procedures must international students maintain?
Keeping your legal status in order involves several ongoing administrative tasks beyond managing temporary trips abroad.
Extending your period of stay
If your study period extends past the expiration date on your residence card, you must apply for an extension at a regional immigration services bureau before your current authorization ends. Applications can usually be submitted up to three months before your stay expires. Staying past your authorized period without filing for an extension leads to serious penalties, deportation, school expulsion, and loss of scholarships.
Permission for part-time work
The Student status of residence is granted specifically for studying and does not permit work. If you intend to take a part-time job, you must apply for permission to engage in activities other than that permitted under your status. First-time students entering Japan for more than three months can request this permission directly at the airport upon arrival. If you do not apply at entry, you must file an application at a regional immigration services bureau. Engaging in paid work without permission can result in punishment and deportation.
Reporting changes to authorities
You must report relevant administrative changes to official bureaus:
- Regional Immigration Services Bureau: Notify immigration if there are changes to your name, sex, date of birth, nationality/region, or school, or if your residence card is lost or damaged.
- Municipal Office: Report to your local municipal office when changing your residential address in Japan, or prior to leaving Japan permanently after finishing your studies.
Bringing dependents and status revocation
Students enrolled in universities can bring dependent spouses and children under a Dependent status matching the main student's stay period. It is recommended to bring family members only after becoming accustomed to life in Japan and establishing economic stability. Securing a Dependent status is difficult if dependents enter initially on a Temporary Visitor visa. Additionally, residence status can be revoked if you submit false details or if you work every day without attending classes without valid reasons. For official guidance, consult Study in Japan (JASSO).
Finding a place to stay
Arranging your housing is a crucial step when preparing for your study period in Japan, typically finalized after your visa or Certificate of Eligibility is approved and before your arrival. Having your accommodation ready before landing simplifies your initial transition and local registration at the municipal office. Many newcomers stay in a furnished monthly apartment first while settling into Tokyo. OHAYO Stay offers furnished monthly apartments and rooms in Tokyo. No guarantor, no key money and no agency fee; booking is online with a passport or ID and a credit card. Most homes have a minimum stay of 30 nights (shown on each listing), making it convenient for incoming students.
FAQ
Do I need to visit Immigration before leaving Japan for a short break?
No, if you hold a valid passport and residence card and return within one year (or before your stay expires), you can simply tick the special re-entry column on the ED card at departure.
How early can I extend my Student period of stay?
You can usually apply for an extension at a regional immigration services bureau starting three months before your current authorized period of stay expires.
Where do I update my information if I move or change schools?
Address changes must be reported to your local municipal office, while changes to your school, name, sex, date of birth, nationality/region, or lost residence cards must be reported to a regional immigration services bureau.
Sources
- Study in Japan(JASSO)「Status of Residence｜Study in Japan Official Website」(checked 2026-10-20)
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.