We saw a large number of applications processed and approvals granted between the end of June and July.

First, regarding immigration matters, we secured approvals for two extension applications. For clients planning to apply for permanent residence later, we aim to secure a five-year period of stay—or upgrade from three to five years—because a five-year permit is a prerequisite for the permanent residence application.

In this instance, we successfully maintained the five-year status for one client; another received a three-year extension, but there were specific reasons for this, and the client fully understood and accepted the outcome.

The applications covered extensions of the period of stay, including for short-term visitors (renewals for short-term visas are difficult and time-consuming as they require same-day review, but we successfully secured a 90-day extension).

We also handled applications for changes of status of residence, work authorization for “Specified Skilled Worker (i)” visa holders, and Certificates of Authorized Employment (which verify that the job duties match the holder’s visa status before changing jobs—a step most foreign nationals skip, which can prevent them from getting a five-year visa later). Additionally, we filed applications for permanent residence (for clients who already meet the requirements, this was a “last-minute” rush to apply before the approval fee jumps from the current 10,000 yen to 200,000 yen).

Finally, we handled extension applications for a family of four.

We also submitted two electronic applications to the Osaka Immigration Bureau. We are receiving many inquiries; for instance, clients who initially requested construction business licenses are now asking us to handle “Specified Skilled Worker (i)” applications as well, so we expect to be busy from late July through August.

It isn’t exactly a “package deal,” but we often see a progression of needs—starting with a construction business license and moving on to “Specified Skilled Worker (i)” status and industrial waste collection/transportation permits.