Permission to Engage in Activity other than that Permitted under the Status of Residence (commonly known as a part-time work permit) allows foreign residents in Japan to engage in activities outside the scope of their original visa. In other words, it is a system designed to expand the limits of one’s resident status and broaden the range of activities possible. Typical examples include part-time jobs or side businesses.
Principles of “Activity within Status” vs. “Activity outside Status”
“Activity outside status” refers to activities that fall outside of your “activity within status.” Activities within status are the basic, free activities defined within the scope of each specific visa category. Foreign nationals are free to engage in these activities as long as they stay within this range.
In contrast, “activity outside status” represents the area outside that scope, which is basically prohibited and restricted. To gain special freedom to engage in such activities, you must apply for “Permission to Engage in Activity other than that Permitted under the Status of Residence.”
Restrictions Apply Only to Work-Related Activities
The scope of activities restricted by these concepts is limited to “work-related activities” (activities involving remuneration or the operation of a profit-making business). Examples include part-time jobs and side businesses.
Therefore, activities that do not constitute work (non-work activities), such as hobbies or daily life activities, are not restricted.
This is based on the premise that activities belonging to “work” are those most likely to significantly impact Japanese society and the economy.
The Standard: “Activity Receiving Remuneration”
For “volunteer work (unpaid),” no permit is required even if it looks like labor. Conversely, even if it is not a “career,” if remuneration (money) is involved, it may be classified as an activity receiving remuneration, and a permit may be required.
Unauthorized Activity Can Lead to Deportation
As mentioned, activities outside the scope of your status are originally prohibited. Engaging in them without permission is equivalent to performing a banned act. Since this is listed as a ground for deportation, it may constitute a violation of the Immigration Control Act and could lead to deportation.
Exceptions (Activities involving temporary remuneration, etc.)
While foreign activities are generally divided into “within status” and “outside status,” there are exceptional activities that are not considered “outside status” even if they appear to be. These are called “activities receiving temporary remuneration.” Since these are not legally classified as “activities outside status,” performing them does not lead to deportation.
Examples of “Activities receiving temporary remuneration”
Key points: The activity must not be performed “as a business/occupation (nariwai)” and must be “within the scope of daily life.”
- Lectures, speeches, or discussions not performed as a business.
- Advice or appraisals not performed as a business.
- Writing, editing, or creative work.
- Appearances in events or broadcast programs not performed as a business.
- Engaging in daily housework at the request of relatives, friends, or acquaintances (not as a business).
- Other temporary activities not performed as a business.
Definition of “Business/Occupation” (Nariwai)
In the Immigration Control Act, “business/occupation” is defined as “repetition and continuity.” This means “doing it repeatedly” is the line. This definition is much broader than the common usage of the word, so caution is required.
The Balance between Primary and Secondary Activities
Getting permission does not mean you can work without limits. This permit is secondary and based on your primary status of residence. Therefore, it must be performed within a range that does not interfere with the activities of your original visa status.
Specific Cases for Application
Common cases for applying for this permit include:
- International students working part-time.
- Dependents (Family Stays) working part-time.
- Side jobs for those with “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” visas.
- Internships, etc.
Comprehensive Permission vs. Individual Permission
There are two types of permits: Comprehensive and Individual.
Comprehensive Permission
This allows work within a limit of 28 hours per week without specifying the employer or industry (excluding adult entertainment/sex industry). Often used for students and dependents. During long school vacations, students may be allowed up to 40 hours per week.
Individual Permission
This is granted when comprehensive permission cannot apply (e.g., when the 28-hour limit cannot be met). This permit specifies a particular company and specific duties. Common for internships, sole proprietorships, or working professionals with work visas seeking side jobs.
Application Method
Where to Apply
- Regional Immigration Services Bureau
- Branch Offices
- Online (If you hold a Residence Card)
- Airport (Available upon arrival for “Student” status only)
Application Fee
Free of charge.
Required Documents
- Application for Permission to Engage in Activity other than that Permitted under the Status of Residence Previously Granted
- Residence Card
- Passport
- (For Individual Permission) Documents proving the content of activities (copy of employment contract, business plan, etc.)
Recording on the Residence Card
For both Comprehensive and Individual permissions, a note will be made on the back of the Residence Card. For Individual permission, detailed conditions will also be attached to the passport.