In recent years, many foreign residents in Japan have noticed that visa renewal reviews are becoming stricter.
Immigration authorities now focus more than ever on whether a foreign resident is properly fulfilling their legal obligations and genuinely living and working in Japan.
This article explains, in simple terms, the main points that are commonly reviewed during visa renewal, based on recent immigration practices.

 

Payment of Taxes and Social Insurance

 

One of the most important factors in visa renewal is whether you have properly paid taxes and social insurance.
It is no longer enough to simply pay them eventually. Immigration carefully checks whether payments were made on time. Even a short delay in resident tax or income tax payments may negatively affect your renewal, especially for long-term visas or permanent residence.

 

Enrollment in pension and health insurance is also increasingly important. If there was a period when you were not enrolled, such as after changing jobs, immigration may ask for a clear explanation.

 

Income Level and Financial Stability

 

Immigration authorities examine whether you can support yourself financially in Japan.

 

For many standard work visas, income that allows stable daily life is expected. While there is no official minimum salary, very low income may raise concerns about future financial stability. If you support family members, both in Japan or overseas, your income must reasonably match those responsibilities.

 

Actual Residence in Japan

 

Another key point is whether you are actually living in Japan.
If you spend a long time outside Japan each year, immigration may question whether Japan is truly your main place of residence. Business trips are acceptable, but long or frequent absences often require written explanations and supporting documents.

 

Special Attention： Business Manager Visa

 

For holders of the Business Manager visa, scrutiny has become especially strict.
Immigration increasingly looks at whether the business has real substance, such as sufficient capital, employees, and actual business activity. Companies that exist only on paper or where management is fully outsourced face higher risk during renewal.
Clear business records and realistic business operations are essential.

 

Consistency Between Visa Status and Job Duties

 

Immigration does not judge only by job titles. They examine what you actually do at work.
If your daily tasks differ significantly from what your visa status allows, this may cause problems. In some cases, immigration may request additional explanations or supporting materials.

 

How to Prepare for Visa Renewal

 

To reduce risk during renewal, it is important to pay taxes and insurance on time, keep documents consistent, and explain any unusual circumstances in advance. Providing honest explanations helps immigration understand your situation correctly.

 

Final Thoughts

 

Visa renewal in Japan is no longer a simple formality.
Understanding what immigration looks at—and preparing carefully—can make a significant difference in your future life in Japan.

 

If you are unsure about your situation, consulting a professional before applying is strongly recommended.

 

If you are thinking about obtaining, changing, or renewing your residence status (VISA), please consult our office.
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