When a foreigner holding a work visa (like Gijinkoku) changes jobs in Japan, there is an “invisible trap” you must never overlook: the “Notification Concerning the Accepting Organization” (所属機関等に関する届出).
Many people forget this notification after obtaining their new job, but it is a strict legal “obligation.” This article thoroughly explains the timing for the notification, the terrifying penalties if you ignore it, and specific submission methods.
1. The Strict “Within 14 Days” Rule
This notification reports changes in your employment status to Immigration. You must submit it “within 14 days from the date the event occurred” in the following situations:
- When you resign: Submit a notification of “Left the organization” within 14 days of quitting.
- When you join a new company: Submit a notification of “Joined the organization” within 14 days of your first day.
*If you change jobs without a gap period, you can submit a combined notification of “Left and Joined” at the same time.
2. What Happens if You Ignore It? 3 Terrifying Penalties
If you leave this unattended thinking “Immigration won’t notice,” it will cause fatal damage during your next visa renewal. Legally, you risk the following three penalties:
① Disadvantage in Next Visa Renewal
Failing to fulfill this legal obligation will mark you as “non-compliant,” which may result in a shortened period of stay or, in the worst case, a rejection of your visa renewal.
② Fine (Up to 200,000 Yen)
Under Article 71-2 of the Immigration Control Act, failing to submit the notification within 14 days without a valid reason can result in a fine of up to 200,000 yen.
③ Worst Case: Visa Revocation
If you quit your job and do not join a new company (and fail to notify them) for more than 3 months, your current work visa may be “revoked,” forcing you to return to your home country.
3. Submission Methods (Online, Mail, In-Person)
There are three ways to submit the notification, but “Online Submission” is overwhelmingly recommended.
- [Recommended] Online (Immigration Services Agency e-Notification System): Available 24/7 from your smartphone or PC. It is free, requires no stamps, and is accepted instantly, making it the safest method.
- By Mail: Mail the form and a copy of your Residence Card to the Tokyo Regional Immigration Bureau. *Always use registered mail with tracking to prevent loss.
- In-Person: Submit directly at the counter of your local Immigration Bureau. (*Not recommended due to long waiting times.)
4. Conclusion: A Job Change is Incomplete Without Notification
The 14-day deadline passes in the blink of an eye when you are busy starting a new job. To protect your precious career in Japan, make it an ironclad rule: “Notify immediately upon resigning” and “Notify immediately upon joining.”