What is a “Permission to Engage in Other Activities”?

Permission to Engage in Other Activities is a special authorization that allows foreign nationals to engage in side jobs or part-time work that is not permitted under their current visa status.

For example,

📌 A student wants to work part-time at a convenience store.
📌 A person on an “Intra-Company Transferee” visa wants to work as a language instructor on weekends.

In such cases, it is essential to obtain Permission to Engage in Activity Other Than That Permitted under the Status of Residence Previously Granted.
Without this permission, engaging in such activities may be considered unauthorized employment, which is a serious violation and could lead to legal consequences, including visa revocation or deportation.

Types of Status of ResidenceExamples of Activities Not Permitted Without Special Permission
Student VisaFood Service, Retail Sales
Dependent VisaPart-Time Work
Engineer / Specialist in Humanities / International ServicesSide Jobs as a Lecturer / Freelance Work in Japan
Status of Residence: Cultural ActivitiesPaid Work (e.g. Paid Exhibitions, Performances, Lectures)

📁 Documents Required for Permission to Engage in Activity Other Than That Permitted

  1. Application Form
  2. Copy of Residence Card
  3. Copy of Passport
  4. 学Student ID or Certificate of Enrollment
  5. Document confirming compliance with working hour limits (e.g. no more than 28 hours per week)

Note:
Additional documents may be required depending on the type of activity and your status of residence.

🕐 Estimated Processing Time

通常は1〜2週間程度(混雑時は最大1か月程度)
✅ 留学生の場合、入国直後に空港での同時申請も可能(簡易処理)

🕐 Estimated Processing Time

  • Usually takes about 1 to 2 weeks after submission at the immigration office.
  • During busy periods, it may take up to one month.

✅ For international students, it is also possible to apply immediately upon arrival at the airport as part of the entry procedures.
This option offers a simplified and faster process.

What Happens If You Work Without Permission?

Engaging in paid activities without the proper permission is a serious violation of Japanese immigration law. Possible consequences include:

The employer may also face penalties, including charges under the crime of Encouraging Illegal Employment

Cancellation of your current status of residence

Forced deportation from Japan

Negative impact on future visa applications, including extensions and status changes

Need Help with Your Application? Nationwide Support Available!

【Administrative Scrivener Taro Fujita Office】

✅ We support a wide range of visa types:
Student, Dependent, Long-Term Resident, and Work Visas

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No matter where you are in Japan, we’ve got you covered!

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Document preparation

Explanation letters (reason statements)

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