Translation guide
In Japan, the Immigration Office (入国管理局) handles matters related to foreign residents' status, visas, and residency procedures. This guide covers how to refer to it in Japanese, including official names, common abbreviations, and practical phrases for visiting or contacting the office.
Referring to the government agency that handles immigration and residency matters.
The current official name of the Immigration Services Agency of Japan, as of 2019. This is the formal term used in official documents and news.
I submitted the application to the Immigration Services Agency.
The former official name, still widely used in conversation and on older signs. Many people continue to call it this.
I renewed my visa at the Immigration Bureau.
Using a shorter, everyday term for the immigration office.
The most common abbreviation for Immigration. Used in casual conversation and news headlines.
I have to go to Immigration tomorrow.
Referring to a specific regional immigration office.
Pattern for naming a regional immigration bureau. Replace [Place] with the city or region name, e.g., 東京出入国在留管理局 (Tokyo Regional Immigration Services Bureau).
The Tokyo Regional Immigration Services Bureau is in Minato Ward.
Older pattern still commonly used. E.g., 大阪入国管理局 (Osaka Immigration Bureau).
How do I get to the Osaka Immigration Bureau?
Saying you need to go to the immigration office in everyday speech.
Reading or asking about signs pointing to the immigration office.
In most everyday situations, 入管 (にゅうかん) is perfectly fine and natural. For official forms or formal letters, use 出入国在留管理庁 (しゅつにゅうこくざいりゅうかんりちょう). If you're unsure, 入国管理局 (にゅうこくかんりきょく) is a safe middle ground that everyone understands.
I went to the Immigration Bureau and received my residence card.
Newer official signs may use this, but it's less common in public signage.
The new building had a sign for the Immigration Services Agency.