[For Employers] Re-entry Permit Applicatio/Japan Immigration Support for HR

Even if a foreign national holds a valid status of residence, leaving Japan without following the proper procedures may invalidate that status. In such cases, upon re-entry the individual would need to obtain a new Certificate of Eligibility (CoE) and reapply for a visa — an inconvenient and time-consuming process for frequent business travelers. By securing a Re-entry Permit prior to departure, foreign employees can return to Japan within the authorized period without applying for a new visa, maintaining their existing status of residence.

Re-entry permits are required when a foreign resident leaves Japan before the expiration of their period of stay with the intention of returning. For example, if an employee temporarily returns to their home country, they must apply for a re-entry permit prior to departure. Failure to do so will require re-application for a new visa before re-entering Japan.

There are two types of re-entry permits: Multiple-entry and Single-entry. - A multiple-entry permit allows unlimited entries and exits during the validity period and costs ¥7,000. - A single-entry permit allows one re-entry and costs ¥4,000. Given the possibility of urgent or unexpected overseas travel, HR departments are strongly advised to arrange multiple-entry permits for employees. The validity period is up to three years but cannot exceed the period of stay granted under the current residence status.

In July 2009, amendments to the Immigration Control Act introduced the Special Re-entry Permit System. Under this system, foreign nationals with a valid passport and residence card (or Special Permanent Resident Certificate) who re-enter Japan within one year (two years for special permanent residents) generally do not need to obtain a separate re-entry permit. For stays abroad longer than one year, however, the standard re-entry permit process remains necessary.