gunmajet.net

You can find some of the information on the Takasaki webpage here: http://www.city.takasaki.gunma.jp/English/VisaInformation.html That page lists the documents you need. Some of them, such as the proof of work document, you will need to ask you supervisor for. JHS ALTs, this is likely your BOE supervisor, but since this is an official document traditional this is done thru schools. Use your own judgement. HS ALTs, ask your school/principal and the will contact the prefectural BOE about preparing the document.

From talking with my supervisor it seems the required paperwork is in a constant state of flux and not always what is listed on the website above. His recommendation was to have a teacher or supervisor call on your before a day or so before going. This allows them to double check on what paperwork is needed and mention your name to the Immigration bureau. This seems to help things go smoothly.

On a final note, I checked the box for a three year extension because I don't want to go through the process every year. The clerk asked me why I said checked three years when my gurantee of work was only for one. I answered that it was the same length as my current visa and the work was renewed each year. Even though my Japanese was clumsy this satisfied him and the spplication went through.

If you have any questions please get in touch with me.
******************************************
Brent Thomas
ALT Advisor
tel: 027-226-4618
email: thomas-br(at)pref(dot)gunma(dot)jp
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Hi everyone!

With only one month left before the end of your visa if you are staying a fourth year, you now need to start processing your visa extension application immediately!

Here are all the things you need to do...

1. Complete application form at this link:
http://www.moj.go.jp/ONLINE/IMMIGRATION/16-3-1.pdf
This is a 27 page document, but don't worry, you only have to fill out the first two pages and section I (Instructor) if you will continue your role as a ALT. It can be completed in English.

2. You will need two documents
One from your school to certify your work status, duration, and position. Secondly, from the town office you will need a letter certifying you have paid your taxes.

3. Visit the Immigration Office in Takasaki.
You must take...
Completed application form
Passport
Alien Registration Card
Official letter from school or BOE for work status
Official letters from town office for income and tax payment (2)
nouzei shoumeisho 納税証明書 and kazei shoumeisho 課税証明書

4. Wait about 10 days for approval

5. Return when they give you approval
Take your passport back and get 4,000yen of stamps outside to pay for processing. They will then issue your new visa if all your paperwork is OK.

Useful Links
Immigration Office Japan:
http://www.immi-moj.go.jp/english/index.html
Extending Visa Proceedure:　
http://www.immi-moj.go.jp/english/tetuduki/kanri/shyorui/03.html
Letters of certification required:
http://www.immi-moj.go.jp/english/tetuduki/kanri/shyorui/Table3-2.html
Takasaki Immigration Office:
http://www.city.takasaki.gunma.jp/English/TakasakiNews/Immigration.html

As far as the application form is concerned, its ok to use a printout from the PDF online so long as it is on A4 paper and turn off the acrobat option that reduces it to fit the page. It MUST be printed on A4 paper at 100% size!

Any questions get in contact with me! Any questions about your school printer and printing options, better to talk to a teacher in your school, they're all different!

The 2 letters from the town office:
nouzei shoumeisho 納税証明書 and kazei shoumeisho 課税証明書
can be given immediately once your tax payments are up-to-date and you complete a simple form from the information on your Alien Registration Card. Cost me 600yen.