CICan I Japan?
Can I Japan?/Visas & status/Can I freelance for overseas clients on a Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services status in Japan?
Visas & status

Can I freelance for overseas clients on a Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services status in Japan?

DEPENDS

Potentially, but overseas clients do not make the work automatically permissible. The actual freelance duties must still fit Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services, or you need outside-activity permission or a status change.

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

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