Foreign nationals residing in Japan under a Dependent Visa (家族滞在) often wonder whether they can engage in part-time work or contribute financially to their household. While the Dependent Visa is primarily for those supported by a primary visa holder, such as a spouse or child, it is possible to apply for permission to work under certain conditions. This permission, officially known as “Application for Permission to Engage in an Activity Other than That Permitted under the Status of Residence Previously Granted” (資格外活動許可), is more commonly referred to as a Work Permit.
In this article, we’ll explain the two types of Work Permits available to Dependent Visa holders—Comprehensive Permission (包括許可) and Individual Permission (個別許可)—and the requirement of being financially dependent on the visa sponsor.
- 1. Financial Dependency Requirement for Dependent Visa Holders
- 2. Comprehensive Work Permission (包括許可) for Part-Time Jobs
- 3. Individual Work Permission (個別許可) for Freelance or Contract Work
- 4. Can You Hold Both Types of Work Permits?
- 5. Important Considerations for Work Permit Applications
- 6. Required Documents for Work Permit Application
- 7. Working While Running a Small Business: Additional Conditions
1. Financial Dependency Requirement for Dependent Visa Holders
Dependent Visa holders are required to be financially dependent on their sponsor. The visa is granted under the assumption that the dependent is supported by a primary visa holder, such as a spouse with a Work Visa or Student Visa.
The legal definition of a Dependent Visa as per Japanese immigration law (出入国管理及び難民認定法) is:
A visa status granted to a spouse or child of a person holding a valid visa in Japan (except those with Diplomat, Official, Specified Skilled Worker, Technical Intern Training, or Temporary Visitor visas) for the purpose of engaging in daily activities while being financially supported by that visa holder.
Because the Dependent Visa is based on the assumption that the visa holder is financially supported, any work performed must be limited and should not challenge this dependency. If a dependent is working too many hours or earning too much, immigration authorities may question whether the person still qualifies for a Dependent Visa during visa renewal.
For example, exceeding the income threshold for spousal tax deductions (typically set at ¥1,030,000 per year) could lead immigration to consider the dependent financially independent, which may affect future visa renewals.
2. Comprehensive Work Permission (包括許可) for Part-Time Jobs
The Comprehensive Work Permission allows Dependent Visa holders to work up to 28 hours per week in a regular part-time role. This is the most common permission sought by those looking for part-time employment while on a Dependent Visa, as it covers activities with a clear work schedule, such as part-time positions in restaurants, retail stores, or other employment based on an employment contract.
Key Points:
- Time Limit: You are limited to 28 hours per week of work.
- Eligibility: This permit applies to activities with clearly defined working hours, based on an employment contract.
- Application Process: The process is straightforward, and you only need to submit an application form (申請書).
3. Individual Work Permission (個別許可) for Freelance or Contract Work
For activities not covered under Comprehensive Permission, such as freelance work, delivery jobs, or other contract-based roles, Dependent Visa holders need to apply for Individual Work Permission. This permission is specific to the job and employer and is granted on a case-by-case basis.
For example, food delivery services that operate under a contractor agreement rather than an employment contract would require Individual Work Permission. This is because the work schedule and duties are typically not as fixed or clear as they are under a part-time employment agreement.
Key Points:
- Time Limit: You are still limited to 28 hours per week of work.
- Specificity: Individual Permission applies only to specific work for specific employers.
- Application Process: In addition to the application form, you must submit documents explaining the nature of the job, your working hours, and details of your compensation.
Examples of Work Requiring Individual Permission:
- Freelance or gig work such as writing, graphic design, or consulting.
- Delivery services like Uber Eats or food delivery, which operate under contractor agreements.
4. Can You Hold Both Types of Work Permits?
Yes, it is possible for Dependent Visa holders to hold both Comprehensive and Individual Work Permissions simultaneously. For instance, if you have a part-time job at a café (which falls under Comprehensive Permission) and also perform freelance graphic design (which would need Individual Permission), you can apply for and maintain both permissions.
5. Important Considerations for Work Permit Applications
- Duration: Regardless of the type of permission, your Work Permit is valid only as long as your Dependent Visa is valid. If your Dependent Visa expires or changes, you may need to reapply for work permission.
- Limited to Part-Time: Both Comprehensive and Individual Work Permissions limit the work to 28 hours per week. For full-time work, you must change to a different visa type, such as a Work Visa.
- Potential for Change in Visa Status: If your freelance or contract work grows to become a more significant portion of your income or you start operating a business, you may need to switch to a different visa category, such as the “Business Manager Visa” (経営管理ビザ).
6. Required Documents for Work Permit Application
Whether you are applying for Comprehensive or Individual Work Permission, the basic documents are generally the same:
- Application Form (申請書): This is the primary form you’ll submit to the immigration office.
- Explanation of Job Details: For Individual Work Permission, you’ll need additional documents explaining the nature of the work, compensation, and work hours.
For freelance work or business-related activities, you may also need:
- Business Plan: If you plan to operate a small-scale business, such as freelance work or a side gig, you may need to submit a business plan detailing your operations.
7. Working While Running a Small Business: Additional Conditions
If you are considering running a small business, such as a food delivery service or freelance operation, note that if your business expands, you may need to switch your visa status. For example, opening a new company, hiring employees, or establishing a physical office would require switching to the “Business Manager Visa”.
Need Expert’s Help?
Applying for a Work Permit on a Dependent Visa can be a bit complicated, especially if you’re unsure whether your job falls under Comprehensive or Individual Permission. Whether you’re working part-time, freelancing, or running a small business, our team of visa experts can help you navigate the application process quickly and efficiently. Contact us today to ensure a smooth and accurate application!
