How it works
Five steps, and who does what
From your first message to the decision. At each step we have split out what we need from you and what we do ourselves.
This is a fictional office created as a design sample.
- 01
Get in touch
By phone, the form, LINE, WeChat or Zalo. We reply within two business days.
YouTell us when your residence card expires and what you need help with.
UsWe assign someone who speaks your language.
- 02
Meet and get a quote
45 minutes at our office or by video call. The first consultation costs ¥5,500.
YouBring your residence card, passport and any documents you already have.
UsWe give you a document list for your case and a written quote.
- 03
Prepare the documents
Two weeks at the quickest; one to three months if papers have to come from your home country.
YouCollect the documents marked “Applicant” on your list.
UsWe write the application and the statement of reasons, and translate English, Chinese and Vietnamese documents.
- 04
We file with immigration
A certified filing agent submits it at the Tokyo Regional Immigration Services Bureau in Shinagawa.
YouNothing. You don't need to queue at the counter.
UsIf immigration asks for more documents during the review, the request comes to us and we let you know.
- 05
Decision
We tell you the same day the result arrives.
YouPick up your new residence card from us.
UsWe collect the card at the bureau and note your next renewal date.
Questions people ask
Can't find yours? Call us or send a message.
Do I really not have to go to immigration?
That's right. A certified filing agent submits the application, receives any requests for extra documents and collects your new residence card. The exception is naturalization, which is handled by the Legal Affairs Bureau: you must go there yourself to apply and for the interview.
My visa expires tomorrow. Is it too late?
You can apply for an extension or change of status up to and including the expiry date. Call us first. If you apply in time, you may stay in Japan while the application is reviewed, for up to two months after the expiry date.
Can I consult online?
Yes, by video call. We exchange documents by email or post. Most of our clients live in the Tokyo bureau's area; if you live elsewhere, call us and we will tell you whether we can help.
What happens if immigration asks for more documents?
The notice comes to our office. We work out what is needed and tell you which papers to collect. You don't have to deal with immigration yourself.
What if my application is refused?
We go to immigration to hear the reasons and tell you whether it is worth applying again. If you reapply for the same status, our fee is halved.
Can I consult in a language other than English, Chinese or Vietnamese?
For Korean, Tagalog and other languages, we can meet if you bring an interpreter. Documents are translated by a partner translation company at cost.
Can I come on a Saturday?
On the 1st and 3rd Saturdays of the month, 10:00–15:00, by appointment. If you work office hours, we are also open until 19:30 on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Is there anything you don't handle?
We do not handle refugee applications or cases for people in immigration detention. If you need help with either, we can refer you to a lawyer who does.
Contact
Call us
+81-3-0000-0000Weekdays 9:30–18:30. If you would rather speak English, Chinese or Vietnamese, just say so when we pick up and we will pass you to the right person.
You can also reach us on LINE, WeChat or Zalo (IDs will appear on the live site).