Visas & status
Can I work full-time on a student visa?
Not as an ordinary Student-status side job. Full-time work generally requires changing to an appropriate work status.
VerifiedExact primary sourceLast checked: 18 Aug 2026
What you need to know
Requirements & exceptions
- Student blanket permission is normally capped at 28 hours per week during term.
- Long vacations have a separate daily allowance, but that does not turn Student status into unrestricted full-time work.
- Change status before beginning a regular full-time career job.
Documents
- Passport
- Residence card (if resident)
- Application form
- Status-specific supporting evidence
Likely cost
A current government fee may apply to the specific immigration application (change, extension, permit, residence procedure or visa issuance); check the exact ISA/consular fee table for that procedure.
Where to act
Regional Immigration Services Bureau / Immigration Services Agency; entry visas are handled by the Japanese embassy or consulate abroad where applicable.