Application for Permission to Engage in Activities Other than Those Permitted by the Status of Residence
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1. What Is Permission to Engage in Activities Outside Status of Residence?
1. Overview
If a foreign national wishes to receive remuneration for activities beyond those allowed under their current status of residence — while continuing their primary authorized activities — they must first obtain approval from the Minister of Justice.
Japan currently recognizes 27 different residence statuses, each defining the activities permitted. For example, a “Dependent” is restricted to “daily activities as a supported spouse or child.” If a Dependent wishes to engage in paid employment, such as part-time work, without changing status, they must first apply for this approval — commonly referred to as “Permission to Engage in Activities Outside Status of Residence.”
2. Examples
Common cases include international students working part-time, or dependents taking part-time roles such as interpretation or translation. In principle, holders of work-permitting statuses like “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” are not granted additional permissions, since their visa already defines allowable activities. Exceptions may occur in special cases — for example, a graduate receiving a small honorarium for assisting a former professor — where the activity is closer to volunteer work.
Work in the adult entertainment industry is strictly prohibited under this permission. This extends to establishments such as pachinko parlors or game centers, which under Japanese law are classified as adult entertainment venues and therefore ineligible for student work authorization.
3. Application Process
To apply, the foreign national must submit their Residence Card, passport, employment contract, and documentation describing the activity to the nearest Immigration Services Agency office. Standard processing takes approximately 2–4 weeks.
4. Working Hour Restrictions
This permission does not grant unlimited working rights. It is designed for part-time or supplementary employment, such as that of students or dependents, and strict limits apply:
- International students (excluding research or auditing students): up to 28 hours per week
- Research or auditing students: up to 14 hours per week
- Students at Japanese language schools: up to 4 hours per day
- During long academic breaks (e.g., summer vacation): up to 8 hours per day
- Dependents: up to 28 hours per week
2. Common Requests from Employers
- We hired an international student for part-time work and need them to obtain this permission.
- Even with approval, working hours are capped. Some students may wish to exceed the limit, but this would constitute unauthorized employment and risk penalties. Careful shift management by HR is essential.
- We hired a foreign national who already holds this permission for part-time work. Are additional procedures required?
- Permissions are issued as either “comprehensive” or “specific.” Comprehensive permission covers any employer within the allowed activity, while specific permission designates one workplace only. If the employee changes employers under a specific permit, a new application is required. When in doubt, consult a licensed immigration professional (gyoseishoshi).
For inquiries, please contact us at TEL: 03-6272-6755 or via email.
3. Service Fees (Excl. Tax)
We will provide a detailed quotation upon request. Please feel free to contact us.
| Permission to Engage in Activities Outside Status of Residence | ¥30,000 (excl. tax) |
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