Changing Jobs in Japan: Immigration Status Checks for Foreign Workers

When changing jobs in Japan, foreign workers should check not only salary and working conditions but also whether the new duties are permitted under their current status of residence.

A change of company does not always require a change of status, but a major change in duties may require immigration procedures before the new work begins.

1. Check your current status and expiry date

Review your residence card for your status of residence, period of stay, and any work restrictions. A work status is generally connected to the type of activity you perform in Japan, not simply to the name of your employer.

Even within the same industry, a new role can require a different assessment.

2. Confirm the actual job duties

Do not rely only on the job title. Confirm the daily duties, workplace, employment type, contract period, and compensation. If the description is unclear, ask the new employer for a detailed written explanation.

3. Review the employment conditions

Read the employment contract or notice of working conditions carefully. Check salary, working hours, days off, workplace, contract term, probation, and resignation rules.

If you use a recruitment agency or job platform, also check its support scope, fees, eligibility, and handling of personal information.

4. Check whether notifications are required

For statuses including Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services, Researcher, Nursing Care, Skilled Labor, and Specified Skilled Worker, a notification concerning the affiliated or contracting organization is generally required within 14 days after ending a contract or entering into a new contract. The applicable notification differs by status.

A change of employer may require a change-of-status application for Highly Skilled Professional (i), because the affiliated organization is designated. Check the Immigration Services Agency's current guidance and seek professional advice before the start date if you are unsure.

5. Determine whether a change of status is needed

If the new duties fall outside the activities permitted under your current status, you may need to apply for a change of status of residence before starting the work.

Submitting an application does not automatically authorize you to begin an activity that is not covered by your current status. Plan the start date with the required procedure and processing time in mind.

6. Consider a Certificate of Authorized Employment

A Certificate of Authorized Employment can be used to confirm the types of paid activities permitted under a person's status. It is not mandatory for every job change, but it may help clarify the position before a future extension application.

Whether it is useful depends on your duties, status, and remaining period of stay.

7. Plan for your next extension

If your period of stay will expire soon after the job change, the extension application may require documents from the new employer. When employment is very recent, clear documents explaining the job, compensation, and continuity of employment may be especially important.

Quick checklist

• Current status of residence and expiry date

• Detailed duties at the new company

• Employment type, term, salary, and workplace

• Required notifications after leaving and joining

• Need for a change of status

• Usefulness of a Certificate of Authorized Employment

• Schedule for the next extension of period of stay

Summary

Job hunting and immigration-status checks should be handled together. Identifying a problem only after accepting an offer can affect the planned start date and the employer's preparations.

Our office assists with applications for changes of status of residence and extensions of period of stay. This article is general information, not advice for a specific case. For current rules, consult the Immigration Services Agency of Japan's official information.