Deemed Re-entry Permission vs. Re-entry Permission: What’s the Difference?

01Deemed Re-entry Permission vs. Re-entry Permission: What’s the Difference?

Foreign nationals holding a valid residence status in Japan must follow specific procedures before leaving the country temporarily. The requirements differ depending on how long you plan to stay abroad. Many people assume a valid passport is all they need to freely enter and exit Japan — but failing to complete the correct procedures can result in your residence status becoming void.

In short: if you plan to return within one year, you can use the “Deemed Re-entry Permission” system. If you will be abroad for more than one year, you must apply for a “Re-entry Permission” before leaving Japan.

Both systems share one critical rule: if you do not return to Japan within the permitted period, your residence status will be invalidated. Always confirm which procedure applies to your situation before departing.

02Departures Within 1 Year: How to Use Deemed Re-entry Permission

The following individuals are not eligible for Deemed Re-entry Permission:

• Those whose residence status will expire within one year of departure (the expiry date becomes the effective limit)
• Those holding a “Temporary Visitor” (短期滞在) status
• Certain applicants currently undergoing refugee recognition procedures
• Those subject to a deportation order

If any of the above applies to you, contact the Regional Immigration Services Bureau before departing to confirm the correct procedure.

One important detail: while Deemed Re-entry Permission is valid for up to one year from the date of departure, if your residence status expires before that one-year mark, the earlier expiry date applies. For example, if your Residence Card expires in 8 months, you must return before that date — even with Deemed Re-entry Permission. Always check your Residence Card’s expiry date before leaving.

03Departures Over 1 Year: How to Apply for Re-entry Permission

If you plan to be abroad for more than one year, you must apply for and obtain a Re-entry Permission at the Regional Immigration Services Bureau before leaving Japan. Applications cannot be made after departure, so this must be completed before you leave.

• Standard residence statuses: maximum 5 years (cannot exceed the residence status expiry date)
• Permanent residents: maximum 6 years
• Re-entry Permission cannot be obtained after departure — apply before leaving Japan
• The actual period granted varies depending on individual circumstances

04Important Note for Permanent Residents: “Permanent Residency Doesn’t Mean You’re Exempt”

• “I’m a permanent resident, so I can stay abroad as long as I want” → Wrong. Departures over 1 year require a Re-entry Permission applied for in advance
• “Permanent residents have no expiry date, so re-entry deadlines don’t apply” → Wrong. Deemed Re-entry Permission still requires return within 1 year of departure
• Those holding “Spouse or Child of Permanent Resident” status are subject to the same rules
• Departing without Re-entry Permission for an extended period may invalidate Permanent Residency, requiring a new residence status application upon return

Permanent residents departing within 1 year may use Deemed Re-entry Permission by completing the E/D card at the airport. For departures exceeding 1 year, a Re-entry Permission — valid for up to 6 years — must be obtained before leaving Japan.

05Situations That Often Lead to Extended Stays Abroad

The following situations frequently result in overseas stays that exceed the original plan. Be aware of these scenarios and prepare accordingly.

06Pre-departure Checklist

Run through this checklist before leaving Japan to reduce the risk of your residence status being invalidated.

• Confirmed the expiry date on your Residence Card (if it expires within 1 year, the Deemed Re-entry Permission period will be limited accordingly)
• Confirmed your planned absence period (within 1 year, or over 1 year)
• If over 1 year or uncertain: obtained Re-entry Permission before departing
• Carrying both your passport and Residence Card (both are required at the departure inspection)
• Correctly completed the airport E/D card (filled in according to your actual circumstances)
• If Re-entry Permission was obtained: confirmed the permission sticker is in your passport and checked the validity period

07Frequently Asked Questions

Can Deemed Re-entry Permission be extended?

Generally, no. However, in exceptional circumstances such as natural disasters or serious illness, alternative relief measures may be available on a case-by-case basis. Contact the nearest Japanese embassy or consulate, or the Immigration Bureau, as soon as possible.

What should I do if my residence status has already expired?

Once your residence status has expired, you generally cannot return to Japan under the same status. You will need to apply for a new residence status based on the purpose of your re-entry. For example, work-related statuses may require a new Certificate of Eligibility (COE). Given the complexity of individual cases, confirm your situation before deciding on next steps.

I obtained Re-entry Permission but could not return before the deadline — what should I do?

If unavoidable circumstances such as illness or a natural disaster prevented you from returning in time, contact the nearest Japanese embassy or consulate abroad immediately. Depending on the specific situation, measures to preserve your residence status may be available, but these are assessed on a case-by-case basis — act quickly.

Where can I apply for Re-entry Permission?

Applications are generally submitted at the Regional Immigration Services Bureau that has jurisdiction over your place of residence. If you are unsure which office handles your area, or have questions about the required documents or procedures, consult Immigration or a qualified professional in advance.

Can someone else apply for Re-entry Permission on my behalf?

In eligible cases, a qualified administrative scrivener (gyosei shoshi) or other certified representative may file the application on your behalf. If you are uncertain about document preparation or the application process, consider seeking professional assistance.