•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
•For Category 3 or 4 employers, you must additionally submit the company registration certificate and financial statements for the most recent fiscal year
•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 period: from 2 months before the expiry date until the expiry date