Japan Early Application Window for Student Status Changes

Key Point  

• Japan issued updated guidance encouraging international students to submit early applications when changing from “Student” status to a work‑authorized residence status ahead of the April hiring period. 

Early Filing Recommended for Status Changes 

Japan released new guidance for international students planning to change their residence status from “Student” to a work‑eligible category. Each year, ISA receives a high volume of applications from students seeking to begin employment in April, which can lead to processing delays. 

To support timely adjudication, ISA is requesting that students submit their applications between December 1 and late January 2026 and ensure that all required documents are complete at the time of filing. The agency notes that incomplete submissions may result in delays that extend beyond the intended employment start date. 

Document Simplification Options 

ISA noted that some applicants may qualify for reduced documentation requirements, including: 

• Graduates of Japanese universities 
• Graduates of top‑ranked overseas universities 
• Individuals already employed by their sponsoring organization 

Eligible applicants may be permitted to submit fewer supporting documents when requesting a status change. 

Additional Notes from ISA 

• Students whose current “Student” status expires on or before January 31, 2026, must first apply for an extension of stay before submitting a status‑change request. 
• ISA cannot respond to individual case‑status inquiries due to high call volumes during the spring hiring period. 

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