Immigration Procedures You Must Complete When Changing Jobs in Japan

 

If you are a foreign resident working in Japan, changing jobs involves more than just signing a new contract.
There are important immigration procedures you must complete to protect your visa status and avoid future problems.
Some procedures are legally required, while others are strongly recommended to ensure smooth visa renewal.

 

Notification of Contracting Organization (Mandatory)

 

The most important requirement when changing jobs is the notification of your contracting organization.
You must notify immigration within 14 days after leaving your previous company and again within 14 days after joining a new company. This notification simply informs immigration that your employer has changed.
Failure to submit this notification may result in penalties and can negatively affect future visa renewals, including shorter periods of stay.
The notification can be submitted online through the Immigration Services Agency system, or by mail or in person.

 

Change of Status of Residence (Required in Some Cases)

 

If your new job involves duties that fall outside the scope of your current visa, you must apply for a change of status of residence.
For example, if you hold an Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services visa but your new job mainly involves cooking or factory work, a status change may be required.

 

It is critical to obtain permission before starting the new job. Working without approval may be considered unauthorized employment.

 

Certificate of Authorized Employment (Strongly Recommended)

 

Even if your new job is within the scope of your current visa, applying for a Certificate of Authorized Employment is strongly recommended.
This certificate confirms that your new job is compatible with your current visa status. It provides reassurance for both you and your employer and significantly reduces risk during your next visa renewal.
Many people apply for this certificate after completing their probation period at the new company.

 

Why These Procedures Matter

 

Japanese immigration authorities review not only your current job but also your past compliance history.
Missing notifications or unclear job duties can cause problems during visa renewal.
Completing the correct procedures on time helps demonstrate that you are a reliable and law-abiding resident.

 

Final Advice

 

Changing jobs in Japan can be smooth if you understand and follow immigration rules carefully.
If you are unsure whether your new job fits your visa status, consulting a professional before starting work is highly recommended.

 

If you are thinking about obtaining, changing, or renewing your residence status (VISA), please consult our office.
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日本で働く在留外国人の方が転職する場合、新しい雇用契約を結ぶだけでは十分ではありません。在留資格を守るために必要な入管手続きがあります。
これらの手続きを怠ると、将来の更新に影響する可能性があります。

 

契約機関に関する届出（必須）

 

転職時に最も重要なのが、契約機関に関する届出です。
退職した日から14日以内、そして新しい会社に入社した日から14日以内に、入管へ届出を行う必要があります。
この届出を行わないと、罰則の対象となったり、次回の在留期間更新で不利になる可能性があります。

 

在留資格変更許可申請（状況により必須）

 

転職先の仕事内容が、現在の在留資格の範囲外である場合には、在留資格変更許可申請が必要です。
許可を得る前に新しい仕事を始めてしまうと、不法就労と判断されるおそれがあります。

 

就労資格証明書（強く推奨）

 

仕事内容が同じ場合でも、就労資格証明書を取得することは強くおすすめされます。
この証明書は、新しい仕事が現在の在留資格に適合していることを入管が公式に確認した証明です。
次回の在留資格更新をスムーズに進める助けになります。

 

なぜこれらの手続きが重要なのか

 

入管は、現在の状況だけでなく、過去にルールを守ってきたかどうかも確認します。
適切な手続きを期限内に行うことで、信頼性の高い在留状況を維持することができます。

 

まとめ

 

日本での転職は、入管手続きを正しく行えば難しいものではありません。少しでも不安がある場合は、専門家に相談することで、将来のトラブルを防ぐことができます。