Introduction

For foreign nationals living in Japan on a “Dependent” visa, part-time work (activities outside the scope of their status of residence) is an important way to support household finances. However, what risks arise if you exceed the “28 hours per week” work limit? This article explains the rules for permission to engage in activity other than that permitted, key points for renewal applications, and the consequences of violations, based on official government information.

Basic Rules: Dependent Visa and Permission to Engage in Activity Other Than That Permitted

A “Dependent” visa allows spouses or children of foreign nationals with a working visa to live together in Japan. In principle, employment is not allowed. However, by applying for and obtaining permission from the Immigration Services Agency, you may engage in part-time work or other income-generating activities.

Conditions for Permission

• Work must be limited to 28 hours per week
• Work outside the permitted scope is prohibited
• Certain industries (e.g., adult entertainment) are not allowed

The “28 hours per week” rule means that, regardless of which day of the week you start counting, you must not exceed 28 hours in any consecutive 7-day period.

Risks of Exceeding 28 Hours per Week

Screening at Visa Renewal

When renewing a Dependent visa, authorities will check not only your activities and family relationship, but also whether you have engaged in “overwork” (exceeding 28 hours per week). If it is discovered that you have worked beyond the permitted scope, your renewal may be denied.

Consequences of Violation

• Renewal or change of status of residence may be denied
• In the worst case, your status of residence may be revoked and you may be subject to deportation
• If deported, you will not be able to re-enter Japan for five years
• Employers may also be penalized under the “Crime of Promoting Illegal Employment” (up to 3 years imprisonment or a fine of up to 3 million yen)

Example

Example: Ms. A (Vietnamese, 30s) was staying in Japan on a Dependent visa and working part-time with permission. To support her family, she worked at multiple workplaces and ended up working 32 hours in one week. When renewing her visa the following year, her tax certificate revealed the overwork, and her renewal was denied. Even after submitting a letter of apology, her reapplication was not approved.

Frequently Asked Questions and Key Points

Q1. Will my renewal be denied if I exceed 28 hours just once?

A. Generally, “continuous violations” are considered more serious, but even a single instance may result in denial if deemed malicious. Authorities will strictly check your work status using tax certificates and payslips.

Q2. What if I want to work more than 28 hours a week?

A. This is not possible on a Dependent visa. To work more than 28 hours per week, you must apply to change to an appropriate work visa (e.g., Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services).

Q3. What about employer responsibility?

A. Employers who knowingly allow overwork or fail to manage work hours are also subject to penalties. Managing foreign employees’ work hours is the employer’s responsibility.

Proper Management of Permission to Engage in Activity Other Than That Permitted

• If working at multiple workplaces, manage your total hours across all jobs
• Keep records of work hours using shift schedules or time cards
• Check your weekly work hours yourself
• Share information with employers to avoid violations

Conclusion

If you work part-time on a Dependent visa, you must obtain permission to engage in activity other than that permitted and strictly adhere to the 28 hours per week limit. If overwork is discovered, you may face denial of visa renewal or even deportation. To ensure a stable life in Japan for yourself and your family, be sure to follow the rules and manage your activities appropriately.