Japan Visa Renewal Approved? Here’s What You Need to Collect Your New Residence Card
If you successfully renew your Japanese residence status, you’ll eventually receive a postcard from Japan’s Immigration Services Agency. Congratulations,That postcard means your new Residence Card is ready for collection.(Zairyu Card）
I renewed my residence status by myself with the help of AI, without hiring an immigration lawyer or administrative scrivener. The process went smoothly, but there are a few details that are easy to overlook.
Save this checklist—you’ll probably need it one day.
Don’t Miss the Collection Deadline
The postcard clearly states the deadline for collecting your new Residence Card.
In principle, you must collect it in person, so don’t let the deadline pass.
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| a postcard from Japan’s Immigration Services Agency |
Documents You Need
According to the instructions on the back of the postcard, you should bring:
1. Your Passport
Bring your valid passport for identity verification.
2. Your Current Residence Card
Your old Residence Card is usually not taken away. Instead, immigration staff will punch holes in it to invalidate it before returning it to you.
3. A Revenue Stamp for the Renewal Fee
The renewal fee is paid with a Japanese revenue stamp.
You can buy one at most post offices or at the FamilyMart convenience store inside Immigration Services Agency offices.
Be aware that payment is typically cash only.
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| Japanese revenue stamp |
Note: The renewal fee is scheduled to increase starting October 1, 2026. Always check the official Immigration Services Agency website for the latest fee before your appointment.
4. The Postcard
Bring the original postcard you received from immigration.
5. Your Application Receipt
When you submitted your renewal application, the immigration office gave you a receipt.
Keep it in a safe place. Many people accidentally throw it away after applying and later realize they need it when collecting their new card.
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| the immigration office gave you a receipt |
One Small Tip That Could Save You Time
Immigration offices can occasionally make small administrative mistakes.
For example, if your family applied together, approval is usually granted for everyone at the same time. However, immigration often sends only one postcard to the main applicant, and sometimes the postcard doesn’t clearly indicate how many revenue stamps are required.
If you’re collecting Residence Cards for multiple family members, it’s worth buying all the required revenue stamps in advance. Otherwise, you may have to leave the queue and buy additional stamps before you can complete the process.
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