If you need to withdraw an application submitted online for any reason, here’s what you need to do:
You can simply submit a withdrawal form to the Immigration Services Agency that processed your online application.
The withdrawal form can be downloaded from the following website:
https://www.moj.go.jp/isa/content/001382060.pdf
Important Points to Note
A critical point to consider is whether withdrawing the application will result in the applicant (a foreign national) becoming an overstayer.
This concern arises only in cases of:
Renewal applications, or
Change of status applications.
If the application pertains to a Certificate of Eligibility to bring a foreign national to Japan from their home country, there is no need to worry about this issue.
Why Consider the Risk of Becoming an Overstayer?
When foreign nationals residing in Japan apply for a status change or renewal, they must do so within the validity period of their existing residence status. If their residence status has already expired at the time of application, they are already in an overstaying situation, making it impossible to submit an application in the first place.
Generally, foreign nationals file applications with the Immigration Services Agency within the validity of their residence status. During this period, their applications are reviewed, and the results are communicated to them.
However, it is not guaranteed that the Immigration Services Agency will complete its review within the validity period of the applicant’s current residence status. For instance, if an application is submitted very close to the expiry date, it might be difficult for the agency to complete the review in such a short time.
Special Provisions for Overstay
If the residence status expires before a decision is made, the foreign national does not automatically become an overstayer.
Japan allows a special grace period of up to two months, starting from the day after the expiration of the residence status. This grace period ensures lawful residence during the review period.
Implications of Withdrawal
If a foreign national withdraws their application during this grace period, they will immediately become an overstayer. The grace period is granted because the application is under review by the Immigration Services Agency. Once the review is canceled by the withdrawal, the basis for the grace period is lost, and the special provisions no longer apply.
Therefore, applications for renewal or change of residence status cannot be withdrawn after the original residence status has expired.
Usui Legal Affairs Administrative Scrivener Office
Address: 2-19-8 Tsurukawa, Machida City, Tokyo
Representative: Takashi Usui
