Introduction

Permanent residency applications are a crucial process for foreigners, and many may consider changing jobs during this period. However, changing jobs can potentially affect the application screening. This article will provide a detailed explanation of how changing jobs during a permanent residency application can impact the screening and what countermeasures can be taken.

Does Changing Jobs During a Permanent Residency Application Negatively Impact Screening?

In conclusion, changing jobs during a permanent residency application can potentially have a negative impact on the screening. The main reasons are as follows:

1. Doubts about Income StabilityPermanent residency applications require the applicant to have assets or skills that enable them to maintain an independent livelihood. If a job change results in a significant decrease in income, it may be judged that the applicant cannot maintain stable income.
2. Concerns about Job ContinuityImmediately after changing jobs, it can be difficult to assess whether employment at the new workplace is stable. Therefore, the examiner may question the applicant’s job continuity.
3. Issues with Residence Status ConsistencyIf the job duties after changing jobs do not align with the current residence status, it may be considered illegal employment. This is a very disadvantageous factor for permanent residency applications.

Countermeasures for Changing Jobs During a Permanent Residency Application

If you must change jobs during a permanent residency application, consider the following countermeasures:

1. Clearly Explain the Reason for Changing JobsIt is important to clearly explain the reason for changing jobs and emphasize positive aspects such as career advancement or increased income.
2. Obtain a Certificate of Eligibility for WorkTo prove that the job duties after changing jobs align with the current residence status, it is recommended to obtain a certificate of eligibility for work.
3. Do Not Forget to Report Changes in AffiliationIt is legally required to submit a “report of changes in affiliation” to the Immigration Bureau within 14 days after changing jobs. Failing to do so may negatively impact the permanent residency application.
4. Properly Handle Social Insurance ProceduresIt is also important to properly handle social insurance and pension procedures related to the job change. Inadequate handling of these procedures can become a negative factor in the application screening.
5. Prepare Documents to Show Stability After Changing JobsPrepare documents such as employment contracts and pay stubs to demonstrate that employment at the new workplace is stable.

What Kind of Job Change is Favorable for Permanent Residency Applications?

Changing jobs does not always have to be disadvantageous for permanent residency applications. The following types of job changes may even be beneficial:

• Significant Increase in Annual Salary
• Changing from Contract to Full-Time Employee
• Moving to a Larger Listed Company
• Changing to a Highly Specialized Profession

For example, if a 32-year-old employee changes from a job with an annual salary of ¥5 million to a full-time position with an annual salary of ¥7 million, it is likely to have a positive impact on the permanent residency application.

Utilizing the Highly Skilled Professional Points System for Permanent Residency Applications

Using the Highly Skilled Professional Points System can potentially shorten the required period of residence for permanent residency applications:

• 70 points or more: Eligible for permanent residency application after 3 years of residence
• 80 points or more: Eligible for permanent residency application after 1 year of residence

If a job change increases points under this system, it may have a positive impact on the permanent residency application.

Conclusion

Changing jobs during a permanent residency application can potentially have a negative impact on the screening, so it is advisable to avoid it if possible. However, if you must change jobs, pay attention to the following points:

• Clearly explain the reason for changing jobs
• Obtain a certificate of eligibility for work
• Do not forget to report changes in affiliation
• Properly handle social insurance procedures
• Prepare documents to show stability after changing jobs

Additionally, job changes that lead to career advancement, such as increased income or becoming a full-time employee, may have a positive impact on the application. It is also worth considering the use of the Highly Skilled Professional Points System. Permanent residency applications are complex procedures that vary depending on individual circumstances. If you have concerns, it is recommended to consult with a professional such as an administrative scrivener.