# AI tells a US citizen they can extend a 90-day visa-free stay in Japan by visiting a local immigration office and paying a fee

- **ID:** `visa/japan-90-day-extension`
- **Domain:** visa
- **Category:** immigration_risk
- **Error Code:** `JAPAN-VF-90-EXT`
- **Verification:** ai_generated
- **Fix Rate:** 70%

## Root Cause

Japan's visa-free entry (for US, UK, AU, etc.) is strictly 90 days and cannot be extended except for exceptional circumstances (e.g., medical emergency) and only with prior approval from the Immigration Bureau; a simple fee payment does not suffice

## Version Compatibility

| Version | Status | Introduced | Deprecated |
|---------|--------|------------|------------|
| Japan Immigration Control Act 2025 | active | — | — |
| MOJ 2024 | active | — | — |

## Workarounds

1. **If you need to stay longer than 90 days, apply for a proper visa before travel (e.g., Cultural Activities visa, Student visa, or Work visa) via the Japanese embassy/consulate in your home country. Do not rely on visa-free entry for long stays.** (85% success)
   ```
   If you need to stay longer than 90 days, apply for a proper visa before travel (e.g., Cultural Activities visa, Student visa, or Work visa) via the Japanese embassy/consulate in your home country. Do not rely on visa-free entry for long stays.
   ```
2. **In genuine emergencies (e.g., hospitalization), contact the local Immigration Bureau (Tokyo: 03-5796-7111) and file for a 'Designated Activities' visa extension, providing medical documentation.** (30% success)
   ```
   In genuine emergencies (e.g., hospitalization), contact the local Immigration Bureau (Tokyo: 03-5796-7111) and file for a 'Designated Activities' visa extension, providing medical documentation.
   ```

## Dead Ends

- **** — Assuming a 'visa run' to Korea or Taiwan resets the 90-day clock—Japan immigration tracks cumulative stays and may deny entry or reduce stay to days if they see frequent short trips (90% fail)
- **** — Believing you can apply for an extension at the immigration office without a compelling reason—routine tourism is not a valid reason; applications are almost always denied (98% fail)