Employment of Foreign Nationals in Japan

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Working in Japan as a Foreign National

Foreign nationals in Japan are permitted to work within the scope allowed by their status of residence. Therefore, when hiring a foreign national, the employer must verify, using the foreign national's residence card, passport, or other relevant documents, that they are authorized to work. If the foreign national does not yet hold a working visa (status of residence), they must first apply for a Certificate of Eligibility at the nearest Regional Immigration Services Bureau.

If the employer wishes to hire a foreign national who already holds a status of residence, they must ensure that the work being offered aligns with the foreign national's current visa. If the nature of the work does not correspond with the conditions of the existing visa, the foreign national's visa status must be changed.

Issuance of Employment Status Notice for Foreign Nationals

An employer hiring a foreign national in Japan must confirm their status of residence, etc. and must notify the Japanese Hello Work center when the foreign national (other than a foreign national with a “Diplomat” or “Official ” status of residence) is employed or ends their employment. The notification format, Hello Work center to which to notify, and notification deadline differ depending on whether or not the foreign national in question is enrolled in the employment insurance system. For details, please see the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare website, etc.