‘Golden Week’ holidays to suspend processing

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? Japan will observe “Golden Week” holidays April 30 and May 3-5.

What does the change mean? Government offices will be closed and in-country immigration processing will be suspended during the holidays.

• Implementation time frame:  April 30 and May 3-5.
• Visas/permits affected: All visas and certificates of eligibility.
• Who is affected: Anyone seeking services from government offices in Japan.
• Impact on processing times: All in-country immigration processing and other government services will be suspended.
• Business impact: Businesses may need to make minor adjustments to account for the holiday closures.
• Next steps: Applicants should submit time-sensitive applications before the holidays, including applications for certificates of eligibility, changes of status, renewals and any immigration-related notifications.

Background: Golden Week begins April 29 with Showa Day (observed April 30). Constitution Day is observed May 3, Greenery Day May 4, and Children’s Day May 5. All four are national holidays and government offices will be closed.

BAL Analysis: Employers should plan for the office closures and file any time-sensitive applications and notifications before the break.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group and our network provider located in Japan. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.

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