⚖️ Legal & Migration

A one-building answer to the usual problem of foreigner support being scattered across different offices — legal, employment and daily-life advice under one roof in Tokyo. About FRESC: The Foreign Residents Support Center consolidates immigration consultation, legal advice, and employment support for foreign residents into a single facility, run in coordination with Japan's Immigration Services Agency and several other government bodies. Key Features: Multilingual Consultation: Staff and interpreters support multiple languages, reducing the language barrier for complex bureaucratic questions. Combined Services: Immigration status, legal questions and job-related support are addressed at one location rather than separate offices across the city. Free Consultation: Advice sessions are generally free, aimed at residents navigating Japan's systems for the first time. Coordination with Immigration: Works alongside the Immigration Services Agency rather than duplicating its formal application processes. How to Get Started: Check FRESC's current hours and location, as it operates from a specific Tokyo facility. Identify what you need help with — visa status, legal questions or employment — since some services are appointment-based. Bring your residence card and any relevant documents to your consultation. Use FRESC's guidance to then complete formal applications through the Immigration Services Agency where needed. Important Notice: FRESC provides consultation and guidance, not the formal visa or status applications themselves — those still go through the Immigration Services Agency directly.

Japan's formal immigration authority — where residence status extensions, changes and permits are actually filed. About the Immigration Services Agency: The Immigration Services Agency (ISA) is Japan's official body for entry, residence status and related applications. Where FRESC offers consultation, the ISA is where the formal paperwork for status extensions, changes and permits is actually submitted and processed. Key Features: Residence Status Applications: Handles extensions and changes to the residence status foreign nationals hold in Japan. Re-Entry Permits: Processes permits needed when leaving and re-entering Japan during a valid residence period. Status of Residence Certification: Issues formal certification confirming your current residence status for official use. Regional Offices: Operates immigration bureaus across Japan, not only in Tokyo, for in-person applications. How to Get Started: Identify your current residence status and what change or extension you need. Visit isa.go.jp to check the specific documents required for your case. Submit your application at the regional immigration bureau covering your address. Apply for extensions well before your current status expires — processing isn't instant. Important Notice: Residence status applications must generally be filed before the current period expires — leaving it too late can create real complications with your ability to remain in Japan legally.