Work & Jobs

Work Permits for Foreigners in Japan: Residence Status Types Explained

Published 2026.06.04 ・ Updated 2026.06.05 | MRI Co., Ltd. — Zainichi Life Navi Editorial Team

To work in Japan, your residence status must permit employment. Working outside your permitted scope is illegal employment.

① Work-Permitted Residence Statuses

StatusWho/What
Engineering/Humanities/Int'l ServicesIT, accounting, translation, design
Specified Skilled Worker14 fields incl. nursing, manufacturing
Permanent Resident / Spouse of JapaneseNo occupation restrictions

② Part-time Work Permission

Students and other limited statuses can work up to 28 hours/week with a Permission to Engage in Activity Other than that Permitted.

⚠️ PenaltiesIllegal employment can lead to forced deportation. Always verify your status permits your job type.

Sources

※Rules may change. Please check the official sites for the latest information.

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