Introduction

Many international students studying in Japan hope to find employment in the country after graduation. However, for those who fail to secure a job offer during their studies or struggle with obtaining a letter of recommendation due to poor academic performance, there are alternative options. This article explains how students can switch to a “Specific Activities” visa to continue their job search after graduation, including cases where academic performance is not strong.

What is a Specific Activities Visa for Job Hunting?

A Specific Activities visa allows international students to continue their job search in Japan after graduation. Typically, it permits a stay of six months, with the possibility of one renewal, providing up to a year for job hunting.

Eligibility for a Specific Activities Visa

The following international students are eligible for a Specific Activities visa:

• Continuing Job Hunting University Students: Foreigners who have graduated from a Japanese university (including junior colleges and graduate schools).
• Continuing Job Hunting Vocational School Students: Foreigners who have obtained a vocational diploma and graduated from a vocational school.
• Continuing Job Hunting Japanese Language Education Institution Students: Foreigners who have graduated from a Japanese language education institution after completing their studies at a university abroad.

Requirements for Obtaining a Specific Activities Visa

To obtain a Specific Activities visa, the following requirements must be met:

• Holding a Student visa.
• Graduating within the past year.
• Having engaged in job hunting before graduation and intending to continue after graduation.
• Having the financial means to support living expenses during the stay.
• Obtaining a letter of recommendation from the graduating institution.

Handling Poor Academic Performance

Poor academic performance or low attendance can be significant barriers to obtaining a Specific Activities visa, as many educational institutions do not issue letters of recommendation to students with poor records. However, if there are valid reasons for poor performance, such as:

• Long-term absence due to illness or injury.
• Family caregiving or other unavoidable circumstances.
• Temporary learning delays due to language barriers.

It may be possible to obtain a Specific Activities visa. In such cases, it is crucial to prepare a detailed explanation of the circumstances and demonstrate prospects for recovery or improvement.

Procedure for Applying for a Specific Activities Visa

1. Obtain a Letter of Recommendation from the graduating institution.
2. Prepare Documents showing job hunting achievements and future plans.
3. Prepare Proof of financial support.
4. Create an Application Form for changing the status of residence.
5. Submit the Necessary Documents to the immigration office.

Required Documents for Application

• Application form for changing the status of residence.
• One photograph (4 cm x 3 cm).
• Passport and residence card.
• Graduation certificate.
• Transcript.
• Letter of recommendation.
• Documents showing job hunting achievements.
• Proof of financial support.

Important Considerations After Obtaining a Specific Activities Visa

• Part-time work is allowed up to 28 hours per week, but a new permit for activities outside the visa status is required.
• If employment is secured, it is necessary to promptly change the status of residence.
• Regular reporting on job hunting progress may be required.

Conclusion

International students can continue their job search in Japan after graduation by switching to a Specific Activities visa, even if their academic performance is not strong. However, it is essential to provide valid reasons and demonstrate prospects for improvement. When applying, carefully prepare necessary documents such as a letter of recommendation from the educational institution and proof of job hunting achievements. After obtaining the visa, it is crucial to diligently engage in job hunting and comply with regulations. If there are any uncertainties, it is advisable to consult with experts or the immigration office.