Japan authorities announced individual procedures will be in effect for foreign nationals impacted by the Noto Peninsula earthquake.

Key Points:

• The Immigration Services Agency will provide special measures for residence applications for foreigners who have overstayed and are unable to apply at their regional immigration bureau according to original procedures.
• Individuals may submit their period of stay extension applications to the immigration bureau that has jurisdictional authority in their current residence if they temporarily moved or evacuated due to the disaster.

Background: A magnitude 7.6 earthquake struck the Noto Peninsula in Japan on Jan. 1. Japanese officials stated that more than 72,000 foreigners live in the four quake-affected prefectures of Fukui, Ishikawa, Niigata and Toyama.

BAL Analysis: Authorities stated the policy is effective for the time being and advised residents to consult with their nearest regional immigration bureau to confirm the appropriate extension procedure. BAL will continue following this matter and will provide more information as it becomes available.