2026-05-17

For foreign nationals seeking to advance their careers or establish a life in Japan, as well as for Japanese companies looking to recruit talented international professionals, “changing work visas” is an essential process that cannot be avoided. This article explains the required documents, key points to note during the screening process, and the steps from application to approval.

“Application for Change of Status of Residence” Required for Job Changes or Changes in Job Type

When a foreign national residing in Japan takes a job that differs from their current activities, they must complete procedures to change their status of residence at the relevant Regional Immigration Bureau. This is generally referred to as “changing work visas.”

For example, this applies to changing from “Student” to “Engineer, Specialist in Humanities, or International Services,” or when changing jobs to perform duties not permitted under your current work visa. It is important to note that if you neglect this procedure and start a new job without obtaining permission, it constitutes “activities outside the scope of your status of residence” and carries the risk of being deemed illegal employment.

As a general rule, the change must be completed before you begin working at your new workplace. Be sure to prepare well in advance and confirm that your current visa has sufficient validity remaining.

Required Documents and Key Points for Review

To ensure a smooth work visa change, it is essential to correctly prepare both documents related to the applicant and those related to the employing company. In addition to a graduation certificate and resume proving the applicant’s highest level of education, the company must provide an employment contract, financial statements, and a business plan.

The most critical factors in the review process are “the relevance between the job duties and the applicant’s field of study” and “the stability and continuity of the company.” Compliance with Japanese laws and regulations—including tax payments and social insurance enrollment—is also strictly scrutinized.

If you are considering “naturalization” in the future, it is recommended that you manage these public obligations appropriately from the visa change stage onward, as failure to do so may affect future reviews.

Schedule for Procedures to Be Carried Out Jointly by the Company and the Foreign National

The review process for switching to a work visa typically takes about one to three months. Since the period around April, when many new employees join companies, is particularly busy, it is expected to take even longer. After extending a job offer, the company should promptly gather the necessary documents and provide them to the individual, or establish a support system to assist with the application through an administrative scrivener.

Even if the current period of stay expires while the application is pending, the individual may legally remain in Japan for up to two months as a special grace period. However, for peace of mind, it is advisable to manage the schedule with ample time to spare.

Once approval is granted, a new Residence Card will be issued, and the individual will be able to officially begin their new duties. The company and the foreign national must maintain close communication to ensure a flawless application.

Summary

“Changing work visas” to expand your opportunities in Japan requires accurate knowledge and meticulous preparation to ensure success. By aligning the individual’s career path with the company’s needs and submitting an application that complies with legal regulations, you can take the first step toward a stable life in Japan. Let’s aim for further growth in Japan through the proper procedures.