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What is "Permission to Engage in Activity other than that Permitted"? Rules for International Students and Dependents Working Part-time in Japan

1. Basic Knowledge and Eligible Visas

Japanese immigration law strictly defines the activities allowed for each status of residence. Those holding visas that do not originally permit work must obtain permission from the Minister of Justice before engaging in any activity for which they receive remuneration.

1-1. Why is This Permission Necessary?

The "Student" visa is for studying, and the "Dependent" visa is for living with family. If unlimited work were allowed, it could lead to the neglect of these primary purposes. Therefore, work is permitted only within a range that does not interfere with the original purpose of the stay.

1-2. Main Visas Eligible for Application

  • "Student": Students at universities, vocational schools, or Japanese language schools.

  • "Dependent": Spouses or children of foreigners working under a work visa.

  • "Designated Activities": Working holiday participants, interns, or graduates searching for jobs (depending on the content).

1-3. "Blanket Permission" vs. "Individual Permission"

Most people seeking part-time work obtain "Blanket Permission," which allows working anywhere within set rules (under 28 hours per week). "Individual Permission" is required for specific activities, such as internships exceeding 28 hours.

2. The Strict "28-Hour Rule" and Long Vacation Exceptions

Exceeding the time limit even slightly can lead to the rejection of future visa renewals or even deportation.

2-1. Calculating "28 Hours per Week" Correctly

The total time worked across all jobs must be within 28 hours per week.

  • Multiple Jobs: If you work 14 hours at Shop A and 15 hours at Shop B, the total is 29 hours, which is a violation. It is NOT "28 hours per employer."

  • "Any 7 Consecutive Days": The 28-hour limit is applied to any 7-day period starting from any given day.

  • Overtime: Work hours include preparation and cleaning time, not just the hours on the schedule.

2-2. Special Rule for Students: 40 Hours During Long Vacations

Only for "Student" visa holders, work is permitted up to 8 hours per day and 40 hours per week during official long vacations (summer, winter, and spring breaks) as defined by the school's regulations.

  • Note: This exception does NOT apply to those on a "Dependent" visa.

2-3. How Violations are Detected

With the My Number system, the Immigration Bureau can monitor income levels through tax records. It is increasingly common for visa renewals to be rejected because income levels indicate the 28-hour limit was exceeded.

3. Prohibited Industries and Adult Entertainment

Even with permission, any work related to the "Adult Entertainment Business" (Fuei-ho) is strictly forbidden.

3-1. Prohibited Locations

You cannot work in the following places, even as a cleaner or kitchen staff:

  • Pachinko parlors, Game centers, Mahjong parlors

  • Cabarets, Host clubs, Girls' bars

  • Love hotels, Private massage parlors

3-2. The Line Between "Service" and "Entertainment"

Serving food in a restaurant is fine. However, sitting next to customers or singing karaoke with them (classed as "Entertainment") is prohibited.

4. Application Procedures and Documents

4-1. Application at the Airport (New Arrivals)

For new "Student" visa holders, you can apply at the immigration counter at major airports (Narita, Haneda, etc.) during entry. The permission will be stamped on your Residence Card immediately.

4-2. Application at the Immigration Bureau (Current Residents)

  • Required Documents: Application form, Residence Card (original), and Passport (original).

  • Fee: Free.

  • Processing Time: 2 weeks to 2 months.

4-3. Validity and Renewal

The permission expires with your visa. You must re-apply for work permission whenever you renew your visa.

5. Employer Obligations

5-1. Mandatory Check of the Residence Card

Employers must check the back of the Residence Card for the "Permission" stamp. Hiring without this can lead to charges of "Encouraging Illegal Labor."

5-2. Notification to Hello Work

Employers are legally required to report the hiring or resignation of foreign employees to Hello Work.

6. Conclusion

  1. Never forget to apply.

  2. Strictly adhere to the 28-hour limit.

  3. Avoid any workplace related to adult entertainment.