Earthquake Affected Foreign Nationals in Japan Can Extend Status

The Japanese Immigration Services Agency (ISA) has announced special measures in support of foreign nationals affected by the Noto earthquake which struck the country on 1, January 2024.

  • Residence permits held by foreign nationals living in the area affected by the earthquake, and which expire before June 29, 2024, will be extended until June 30, 2024.
  • Those who have been temporarily moved or evacuated from their original place of residence due to the disaster can apply at the immigration office that has jurisdiction over their current place of residence.
  • If it becomes difficult to engage in the work activities stipulated by the status of residence for a period not exceeding three months due to the disaster, the authorities will, on application, conditionally grant permission to engage in activities other than that permitted under the status of residence.
  • If it is recognized that it has been difficult to fulfil the obligations stipulated in the Immigration Control Act due to the effects of the 2024 Noto Peninsula Earthquake, the obligations will be cancelled on April 3, 2024. Affected foreign nationals will be in compliance as long as they comply by the deadline.
Erickson Insights and Analysis

Erickson Immigration Group will continue to monitor developments and share updates as more news is available. Please contact your employer or EIG attorney if you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or case-specific questions.