@Ellie ******

great answers!!

For this situation (and assuming they do it every year), how would the METV approach compare with elite visa? More expensive but less trips to embassy and immigration office??

<if this is judged highjacking, I apologize>

It’s possible that ELITE visa might be an option for you too.

Make sure your TM30 lodging info is filed and up to date.

You have to report change of address within 24 hrs, every time. If you stay at a hotel, they do it for you. But, if you are staying with a friend you both are supposed to go to immigration (or police) with their house book.

So, if you go to KS immigration, make sure you have story straight about where you are staying.

(Apologies if everyone knows this already)

Retirement or Elite are both good options.