Government closure set for April 27-May 6

IMPACT – HIGH

What is the change? The Japanese government has declared a 10-day holiday in late April and early May to celebrate the emperor’s succession.

What does the change mean? Applicants should anticipate government office closures, including embassies and consulates, resulting in significant delays in immigration processing.

• Implementation time frame: April 27 through May 6.
• Visas/permits affected: All government services.
• Business impact: Applicants seeking visas and renewals should plan well in advance to ensure that their applications are processed before the holiday break.
• Impact on processing: Applicants should anticipate delays of two to three weeks.
• Next steps: Employers should identify applications that require decisions before the holiday break and plan to submit them as early as possible.   

Background: The government declared the one-time “Golden Week” holiday April 27 through May 6 to commemorate the imperial transition. Emperor Akihito will abdicate the throne on April 30 and Crown Prince Naruhito will be crowned as the new emperor May 1. All Japanese government functions will be suspended during the 10-day holiday.

Analysis & Comments: Companies applying for new work visas for employees intending to start work in Japan between May 1 and June 1 are encouraged to file as early as possible to avoid interruption to business schedules. Additionally, family dependents and employees needing to renew their visas should factor in the suspension in services to avoid falling out of status if their applications are delayed.

Source: Deloitte LLP. Deloitte LLP is a limited liability partnership registered in England and Wales with registered number OC303675 and its registered office at 1 New Street Square, London EC4A 3HQ, United Kingdom.