What is a re-entry permit and how do I get one?

It should look like this

With Christmas fast approaching, and many of us gaijin planning to go home over the break to spend time with family, a re-entry permit is a must if you want to get back into the country.

This means that anyone residing on a short term visa who plans to leave and come back must apply for a re-entry permit before they leave.

There are two types of permits: single and multiple. Single allows only one trip and costs 3000 yen, while a multiple can be used over and over again until your visa expires and costs 6000 yen.

You can get these permits at any branch of the Tōkyō Immigration Bureau. The closest one in Ibaraki is in Mito, or you can go into Tōkyō.

The address of the Mito Branch is:

1st Floor, No. 3 Prince Building
2-9-12 Jonan, Mito
Phone: 029-300-3601

They are open from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Take note, cash is not accepted so the 3000 or 6000 yen must be paid with "revenue stamps" which are available at any convenience store. There is one a block away from the Branch (a Mini Stop) if you forget.

Thanks to gotjapan.com and www.ia-ibaraki.sakura.ne.jp for the images.