Understanding the Difference Between Your Visa Status and the Work You Can Do in Japan

 

If you are a foreign resident living in Japan, understanding your visa status is essential. One of the most common sources of confusion is the difference between your status of residence and the type of work you are legally allowed to perform. Many foreigners assume that having a work visa means they can do any job, but this is not the case.

 

In Japan, immigration law clearly defines what kind of activities are permitted under each visa status. Working outside those permitted activities can result in serious consequences, including visa cancellation or denial of renewal.

 

What Is a Japanese Status of Residence?

 

A Japanese visa, officially called a Status of Residence, determines the primary activity you are allowed to engage in while staying in Japan. This includes both your purpose of stay and the scope of work you may perform.
For example, common work-related statuses include Engineer / Specialist in Humanities / International Services, Specified Skilled Worker, and Skilled Labor. Each status is tied to specific professional fields and job functions.
In short, your visa is not based on your employer’s name, but on the nature of your work itself.

 

Jobs You Are Allowed to Do

 

You are allowed to work only within the scope defined by your visa status.
For instance, if you hold an Engineer / Specialist in Humanities / International Services visa, you are generally allowed to work in areas such as IT, engineering, translation, marketing, accounting, or office-based professional roles. These jobs typically require specialized knowledge or skills.
Similarly, those with a Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) visa can work only in designated industries such as nursing care, food service, construction, or building cleaning, and only in the job roles officially approved for that industry.
As long as your actual work duties match the activities permitted under your visa, you are considered legally employed.

 

Jobs You Are Not Allowed to Do

 

Even if you have a valid work visa, there are jobs you are not allowed to do.
A common example is manual labor or simple part-time jobs that do not match your visa category. For example, an office worker on a professional visa is generally not allowed to work as a restaurant server, factory line worker, or convenience store clerk unless they obtain special permission.
Another important point is that working for multiple employers or doing freelance work may also be restricted, depending on your visa type and contract conditions.
Working outside your permitted activities without approval is considered unauthorized employment, even if you are paid legally or your employer agrees.

 

What Is “Permission to Engage in Activity Other Than That Permitted”?

 

In some cases, foreign residents may apply for Permission to Engage in Activity Other Than That Permitted Under the Status of Residence Previously Granted.
This permission is commonly used by international students or dependents who want to work part-time. However, for most work visa holders, this permission is not easily granted and should not be assumed to be a solution.
Always confirm with an immigration specialist before starting any additional work.

 

Why This Difference Matters

 

Japanese immigration authorities focus not only on your job title, but on your actual daily work activities. Even small differences between your visa status and your real duties can raise problems during visa renewal or change of status applications.
Understanding what you can and cannot do under your visa helps you avoid unintentional violations and ensures long-term stability in Japan.

 

Final Thoughts

 

Living and working in Japan requires more than just having a visa. It requires a clear understanding of how your status of residence connects to your permitted work activities.
If you are unsure whether your job matches your visa, or if your role has changed, it is strongly recommended to seek professional advice. Correct understanding today can prevent serious immigration issues in the future.

 

If you are thinking about obtaining, changing, or renewing your residence status (VISA), please consult our office.
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