Introduction

We often receive inquiries from foreign nationals holding Technology, Humanities Knowledge, or International Business Visas, asking if they can engage in part-time work or side jobs. In summary, having a side job is possible if certain conditions are met, but there are also important considerations. This article will provide a detailed explanation of the possibilities for side jobs under these visas, necessary procedures, and precautions.

What is the Technology, Humanities Knowledge, and International Business Visa?

First, let’s briefly explain what the Technology, Humanities Knowledge, and International Business Visa is. This visa is a type of work visa granted to foreign nationals working in specialized or technical fields. It primarily targets the following professions:

• Engineers
• Programmers
• Interpreters/Translators
• Designers
• Marketing Specialists

Is a Side Job Possible?

In principle, foreign nationals holding a Technology, Humanities Knowledge, or International Business Visa can engage in part-time work or side jobs. However, depending on the nature of the side job, a “Permission for Activities Outside the Scope of the Status of Residence” may be required.

Permission for Activities Outside the Scope of the Status of Residence

Permission for Activities Outside the Scope of the Status of Residence is required to engage in income-generating activities beyond what is permitted under the current status of residence. For holders of the Technology, Humanities Knowledge, or International Business Visa, this permission is necessary when engaging in activities outside the scope of the visa.

When Permission is Required and Not Required

When Permission is Required

Permission is required when engaging in activities outside the scope of the current status of residence. For example, if a foreign national working as a system engineer operates a business outside the scope of their visa, they need permission.

When Permission is Not Required

Permission is not required when engaging in activities within the scope of the current status of residence or when the activity is temporary and not conducted as a business. For instance, if a translator works as an interpreter as a side job, permission is not needed.

How to Apply for Permission

To apply for Permission for Activities Outside the Scope of the Status of Residence, the following documents are necessary:

• Application form for Permission for Activities Outside the Scope of the Status of Residence
• Residence Card
• Passport
• Documents clarifying the activity content (e.g., a copy of the employment contract)

Applications can be made at the nearest Regional Immigration Bureau. As of January 2024, online applications are also possible.

Precautions for Engaging in Side Jobs

• Impact on Primary Work: The side job must not interfere with the primary work.
• Prohibition of Simple Labor: In principle, simple labor is not permitted under the Technology, Humanities Knowledge, or International Business Visa.
• Employer’s Permission: Many companies prohibit side jobs in their employment rules, so obtaining the employer’s permission is crucial.
• Impact on Residence Period Renewal: Inappropriate side jobs may negatively affect the renewal of the residence period.

Examples of Side Jobs

Here are some examples of side jobs that may be possible under the Technology, Humanities Knowledge, or International Business Visa:

• An engineer working for an IT company doing freelance web development.
• A foreign national working for a trading company taking on translation or interpretation jobs on weekends.
• A marketing company employee providing SNS consulting services personally.

These examples typically involve using the primary job’s expertise for side jobs, often without needing permission.

Conclusion

Engaging in side jobs under the Technology, Humanities Knowledge, or International Business Visa is possible, but there are conditions and precautions to consider. If the side job falls within the scope of the current status of residence, permission is not required, but if it falls outside, permission is necessary. Remember to adhere to rules such as labor time restrictions, impact on primary work, and prohibition of simple labor. For those considering side jobs, it is recommended to consult with their employer and, if necessary, verify with the Immigration Bureau or an administrative scrivener. By following proper procedures, you can engage in side jobs with peace of mind.