Why You Shouldn't Delay Visa Renewal: The My Number Card and Bank Account Crisis
For foreign residents living in Japan, one of the most important administrative procedures is renewing or changing their status of residence (visa). Many feel reassured because as long as they apply before their visa expires, they are granted a "special grace period" (特例期間) that allows them to legally remain in Japan until the screening results are released.
However, according to recent guidelines released by the Immigration Services Agency of Japan (ISA), entering this "grace period" before the visa screening is complete can cause serious disruptions to daily life, requiring close attention. Failing to complete the renewal or change of status within the original period of stay can lead to the suspension of My Number cards and restrictions on bank accounts.
Daily Life Restrictions When Entering the "Grace Period"
If your visa expiration date passes and you enter the grace period while your application is under review, you may face the following disadvantages:
- Suspension of My Number Card: To continue using your My Number card as an identity verification document or electronic certificate, you must visit your local ward or city office (municipal office) where you are registered and renew its validity before your original period of stay expires. If you miss this deadline and pass your expiration date, your My Number card will be temporarily suspended.
- Restrictions on Bank Account Transactions: Financial institutions in Japan strictly manage the residence period information of foreign customers. If you do not submit documents proving your new status of residence to your financial institution by your expiration date, transactions on your savings accounts may be restricted starting the very next day. This is a serious issue that can disrupt rent payments, utility transfers, and salary deposits.
To prevent such disruptions, the Immigration Services Agency strongly recommends applying well in advance so that all approval procedures can be completed before your current period of stay expires.
Recommended Visa Application Timing by the Immigration Services Agency
To ensure smooth processing and safeguard your daily life, the authorities have provided the following specific application guidelines:
- Application for Extension of Period of Stay (Renewal): You should strive to complete your application between 3 months and 45 days prior to your current visa's expiration date. Applying right before expiration significantly increases the likelihood of the screening extending into the grace period.
- Application for Change of Status of Residence: If a reason to change your visa type arises, such as changing jobs or getting married, you should apply promptly without delay.
Exceptions and Guidelines for Short-Term Residents
However, these guidelines do not apply uniformly to all visa change applications. The following specific cases are excluded from these recommended timelines as they have separate guidelines and procedures:
- International students changing their status of residence to start formal employment at a Japanese company starting in April.
- Applications to transition from Technical Intern Training (技能実習) to Specified Skilled Worker (特定技能) status.
Additionally, short-term residents who are not mid-to-long-term residents and have a period of stay of 3 months or less can apply for a renewal or change once approximately half (1/2) of their current period of stay has elapsed.
Thorough Preparation is the Key to a Stable Life in Japan
Renewing your visa is more than just maintaining your legal status; it is an essential process to protect your credit and daily economic activities in Japan. It is important to build a habit of preparing documents in accordance with the Immigration Services Agency's recommended schedule to account for potential screening delays. If you must apply close to your expiration date, you should check the procedures for extending your My Number card validity and notifying your bank in advance to avoid any disadvantages.
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Source: 出入国在留管理庁