Foreign nationals residing in Japan under the status of “Student,” “Cultural Activities,” or “Dependent”
are not permitted to work for income. However, they can work part-time to an extent that does not interfere
with the activities of their status of residence, on the condition that they obtain a Part-Time Work Permit
in advance (officially titled “Permission to engage in activity other than that permitted under the status of
residence previously granted”). Those who work without this permit will be subject to legal penalties
and possible deportation from Japan.
Please be sure to obtain the permit before starting any part-time work.
About Part-time Work Permit
from the KYOTO CITY INTERNATIONAL FOUNDATION Website
Types of the Part-time Work Permit 1. Comprehensive Permit
Mainly for those with “Student” or “Dependent.” status of residence.
Can be applied for even if the employment location and job duties have not yet been determined.
No need to re-apply each time you change employers.
Allowed to work up to 28 hours per week.
Types of the Part-time Work Permit 2. Individual Permit
Application can only be submitted after the specific employment location and job duties are confirmed.
Only approved if the job duties align with the permitted activities of the specific status of residence.
Necessary to obtain a new permit every time you change your workplace.
Permitted working hours are determined individually upon each application.
How to apply
Applicants can apply by bringing the
Application Form
, passport, and residence card to the Regional Immigration Services Bureau of their area of residence.
In principle, a Comprehensive Permit is issued on the same day. An Individual Permit requires additional
documents detailing the job duties and a certain screening period.
There is no application fee for either permit.
Notes: International Students
In principle, new entrants with "Student" status of residence*
can apply for the Part-time Work Permit at their port of entry (airport).
Note that while the same application form is used for both Comprehensive and Individual Permits when applying after entry,
a different form is required when applying at the airport.
*Excludes individuals with a "3 months" period of stay and Japanese Government (MEXT) scholarship students.
In principle, allowed to work up to 28 hours per week, which is extended up to 40 hours per week (8 hours per day)
during long holidays specified by university regulations. These limits apply to the total number of hours worked across all part-time jobs.
Strictly prohibited to work during periods of non-enrollment, including before enrollment,
after graduation, and during a leave of absence.
The Part-time Work Permit is valid only until the expiration date of your status of residence. Not automatically renewed;
a new application is required upon extending your period of stay.
The Part-time Work Permit is not required when working as a TA, RA, or tutor to assist with education or research at Kyoto University.
A Comprehensive Permit covers regular part-time work, but an Individual Permit may be necessary
for full-time internships or work with irregular hours.
Please consult the Immigration Services Bureau if you have any concerns.
Notes: International Researchers
Those residing under "Cultural Activities" status who will receive a salary or remuneration may need to change their Status of Residence rather than
applying for a Part-time Work Permit (Individual Permit). Please consult the Immigration Services Bureau in advance if you have any concerns.
Those residing under "Professor" status may also need to apply for a Part-time Work Permit (Individual Permit) depending on their job duties.
(Example: Teaching foreign language conversation at a private language school, translation, or interpretation services etc.).
Please consult the Immigration Services Bureau in advance if you have any concerns.