Working
Can I be paid by a foreign company while living in Japan?
Yes, but being paid by a foreign company does not by itself authorize the job. Your residence status and the nature of the work still control immigration legality.
VerifiedPrimary topic verifiedLast checked: 18 Aug 2026
What you need to know
Requirements & exceptions
- Remote foreign employment can fit Digital Nomad or unrestricted statuses more naturally than an ordinary employer-sponsored Japanese work status.
- Japanese income tax can apply to work physically performed in Japan.
- Check social-insurance treatment separately.
Documents
- Government-issued ID or provider-required identity documents
Likely cost
No separate government fee merely for having this employment arrangement. If immigration permission/status change is required, the applicable ISA procedure fee applies; tax/social-insurance contributions are separate.
Where to act
Employer/contracting client plus the Regional Immigration Services Bureau if immigration authorization or notification is required.
Official sources
Immigration Services Agency — Status of Residence / ProceduresImmigration Services Agency / Ministry of Justice · Official sourceMHLW — For Foreign Workers in Japan / Labour StandardsMinistry of Health, Labour and Welfare · Official sourceExisting verified sourceImmigration Services Agency / Ministry of Justice · Official source