If a foreign national desires to remain in Japan under the same status of residence beyond his or her authorized period of stay, it is necessary to apply for and obtain an extension of period of stay.

A foreign national who wishes to extend his or her period of stay should make an application for permission of extension of period of stay not later than the expiration data of the authorized period of stay. An application for extension of period of stay will be accepted from about two months prior to that date.

Anyone who stays in Japan beyond his or her authorized period of stay many be subject to punishment and deportation (Article 24, Item 4, Sub-item (b) and Article 70, Item 5 of the Immigration Control Act).