For those living in Ibaraki Prefecture whose period of stay is nearing expiry, and those whose job duties will change because of new employment or a job change: it is important to organize your current activities, employment terms, and supporting documents one by one when renewing or changing your residence status. Imai Administrative Scrivener Office accepts residence status consultations from foreign nationals throughout Japan. Be sure to confirm the consultation method, whether we can assist, and fees before consulting us.
Where to apply in Ibaraki Prefecture and what to check in advance
As a general rule, applications relating to Status of Residence for people with an address in Ibaraki Prefecture are handled by the immigration office with jurisdiction over their place of residence. The Mito Branch Office of the Tokyo Regional Immigration Services Bureau is listed as an office handling general residence examinations. The application location, visiting procedures, reception arrangements, and required documents may change, so be sure to check the latest official Ministry of Justice information before preparing or visiting.
Plan your preparations by counting back from your renewal deadline
An extension of period of stay is the procedure for those who wish to remain in Japan beyond the expiration date while continuing activities under their current Status of Residence. Guidance states that those with a period of stay of six months or more may apply starting three months before the expiration date. Documents showing that you will continue living or working in Ibaraki Prefecture vary depending on your circumstances. Organize your residence card, passport, expiration date, and employer or school documents early, and check the official guidance for the specific documents required in your case.
When changing jobs, check your job duties against your status
Changing jobs does not automatically mean that you must change your Status of Residence. Start by checking how your new duties, employment terms, and organization relate to the activities currently permitted for you. If your job duties change significantly, whether a Change of Status of Residence is required may become an issue. Put your resignation and start dates, employment contract, and job duties in chronological order. Do not rely on your own judgment; check the latest official guidance or consult a professional, including about any notification requirements.
Multilingual Public Consultations and Scrivener Advice
The Foreign Resident Consultation Center of the Ibaraki International Association offers multilingual consultations on Status of Residence, work, and daily life, and provides information about three-way calls with public agencies. This is a public consultation service separate from Imai Administrative Scrivener Office. If considering engaging an administrative scrivener, organize your individual circumstances and confirm matters such as whether they can prepare application documents and act as an agent for submission. We accept consultations from businesses nationwide about checking Status of Residence in connection with hiring foreign nationals and job recruitment, but we do not provide worker introductions or placement services.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I start preparing to extend my period of stay?
An extension of period of stay presupposes that you will continue activities under your current Status of Residence. Check your expiration date, residence card, passport, and documents relating to your employer or school. Check the latest Ministry of Justice guidance for the documents required for your particular status. Requirements vary by circumstances, so it is best to prepare early.
If I change jobs in Ibaraki Prefecture, do I always need to change my Status of Residence?
When changing jobs, check whether your duties at the new employer match the activities permitted under your current Status of Residence. If your duties change, you may need to consider changing your Status of Residence. Organize your resignation and start dates and employment contract, and check your individual circumstances, including any notification requirements.
What is the difference between a public consultation service for foreign residents and consulting an administrative scrivener?
For multilingual consultations about daily life or Status of Residence, you can use the Foreign Resident Consultation Center of the Ibaraki International Association. An administrative scrivener may be able to advise on individual application preparation and document drafting, among other matters, but this is separate from a public consultation service. Confirm the scope of assistance and consultation method in advance.
Official Resources and Related Consultation Services
Systems and public consultation services may change. Please check the latest official information when proceeding with an application. Public consultation services are separate from our office.
- Tokyo Regional Immigration Services Bureau (Ministry of Justice, Immigration Services Agency of Japan: including the Mito Branch Office)
- Application for Extension of Period of Stay (Immigration Services Agency of Japan, Ministry of Justice)
- Foreign Resident Consultation Center (Ibaraki International Association, Public Interest Incorporated Foundation)
Tell us your current residence status and which procedure you are considering
We accept consultations nationwide on residence status renewals and changes, and work visas. We will confirm the details and advise you on consultation methods, fees, and whether we can assist.
Consult About Status of Residence and Visas