Guide
Re-entry Permits for Japan: Special Re-entry Explained (みなし再入国)
Leaving Japan and coming back without losing your status: how special re-entry works within one year, and when you need a re-entry permit before departure.
If you're a resident and you want to leave Japan for a trip, you need to make sure your status survives the journey. There are two ways to do this.
Special re-entry (the easy case)
For short absences, special re-entry (みなし再入国) lets you leave and return within one year without any extra paperwork in advance. You simply present your residence card at departure and tell the officer you intend to return.
Your period of stay still applies, so you must come back within one year and before your status expires, whichever is sooner.
Longer absences
Planning to be away more than one year? You need a regular re-entry permit, applied for at immigration before you leave. Without one, your residence status can lapse while you're abroad.