I just renewed my visa using the new official online portal: https://www.rasens-immi.moj.go.jp/rasens-u/. Before starting, I read two old tip posts here (Online Visa Tips and Advice, Online VISA tips) as references. They described the process as a pain in the ass where you need to buy a card reader, install outdated software, extensions, emulators, and prepare documents in very specific ways. But I really didn’t want to waste half a day going to Nyukan, so I decided to give it a try anyway, fully prepared to deal with all the bullshit you’d expect from Japan’s outdated systems.
To my surprise, they’ve actually updated the online system since those posts, and the whole process was way simpler. The only real trouble I had was getting my My Number card to scan properly with my phone to log in, but that was solved just by trying a few times, so no big deal.
No need to install any software, extensions, or emulators like before. No need to buy a card reader (I bought one but then returned it). No need to merge all your documents into one PDF like before.
It’s pretty straightforward:
- Create an account
- Log in
- Register for the right to apply by scanning your My Number card with your phone (still don’t really get why this step exists, maybe it’s just some kind of initial identity verification. I assume this step confuses a lot of people.)
- Choose your application type, fill out the form in the browser, and upload your documents (this step also requires scanning your My Number card)
- Done (with the applying step, of course you still have to mail in your zairyu card after that, but it’s the same as applying in person)
That’s it. Steps 3 and 4 are the only parts that might be annoying, since your phone doesn’t always scan smoothly and you might forget your My Number card’s two passwords (yes, you need to remember both).
I applied on the 7th and my application was approved on the 13th. Pretty quick. Now I just have to mail in my zairyu card and wait for the new one.
by Jealous-Drop1489