•You can apply up to 3 months before expiry. Applying before the expiry date allows you to remain in Japan during the review period (tokureikikan — valid until the disposition date or 2 months after expiry, whichever comes first)
•The fee (¥6,000 at counter / ¥5,500 online) is paid after approval, not at the time of application
•Always use the latest version of the Point Calculation Table. You only need to submit documents for items that confirm your 70+ points — you do not need to cover every scoring category
•A municipal tax certificate is not on the standard submission list for this renewal, but some regional offices may request it — having one ready is advisable
•If this is your first renewal after moving to a Category 3 or 4 employer, you also need the company registration certificate, the previous fiscal year's financial statements, and a business brochure. These are generally not required if you have not changed jobs
•Online application requires prior user registration on the ISA online system
•Highly Skilled Professional 2 holders have an indefinite residence period, so a residence period renewal is not required. You only need to renew the residence card itself (valid for 7 years) before it expires
•There is no application fee. Counter applications only; the new card is generally issued on the same day
•Application window: from three months before the expiry date of your residence card until the expiry date (from six months before if your card expires on your 16th birthday)
•A certificate of employment is not on the official document list, but it may be requested during screening