Visas & status
Can I do paid consulting on a Skilled Labor status in Japan?
Only if the consulting duties are substantively within Skilled Labor; unrelated paid consulting is outside the status unless Immigration grants outside-activity permission or you change status.
VerifiedPrimary framework reviewedLast checked: V2.5 framework reviewed
What you need to know
Requirements & exceptions
- Actual duties and payment structure matter.
- Payer location does not by itself determine immigration legality.
Documents
- Passport
- Residence card
- Contract / activity description where relevant
Likely cost
Immigration fees apply only if separate permission, extension or a status change is required.
Where to act
Regional Immigration Services Bureau / Immigration Services Agency.
Official sources
Permission to Engage in Activity Other Than That Permitted — Immigration Control Act Article 19(2)Immigration Services Agency · Official sourceStatus of Residence — Activities and ProceduresImmigration Services Agency · Official sourceImmigration Services Agency — Permission to Engage in Activity Outside StatusImmigration Services Agency / Ministry of Justice · Official source