Introduction

Many foreign nationals working in Japan hold the “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” (hereinafter “Engineer/Humanities/International”) status of residence. When changing jobs, this is not just a simple workplace change; various procedures and precautions based on the Immigration Control Act and status of residence requirements arise. This article explains the key points and application tips when changing jobs, based on official government information and expert insights.

What is the “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” Status of Residence?

This status allows foreign nationals who have studied specialized knowledge or skills at a university or vocational school to work in Japanese companies. Eligible occupations include system engineers, programmers, sales, accounting, interpreters/translators, designers, and more, but simple labor is not permitted.

Key Points to Note When Changing Jobs

1. Notification Obligation Within 14 Days
If you resign or join a new company, you must submit a “Notification of Affiliated Organization” to the Immigration Services Agency of Japan within 14 days. Failure to do so may result in penalties (up to 200,000 yen in fines, etc.).

2. Confirming the New Job’s Duties
The new job’s duties must be within the scope permitted by the “Engineer/Humanities/International” status. If not, there is a risk of being denied when renewing your status. Even if the job title is the same, insufficient job content or volume may also result in denial, so prior confirmation is crucial.

3. Use of the Certificate of Authorized Employment
If you are unsure whether your new job duties qualify, it is recommended to apply for a “Certificate of Authorized Employment” at the Immigration Services Agency. While not mandatory, this reduces the risk of problems at renewal.

4. Points to Note When Renewing Your Status
Renewal with a job change is subject to stricter review. You may be required to submit detailed documents such as a new employment contract, notification of working conditions, a certificate of resignation from your previous job, and business plans or financial statements from the new company. This is especially true for small or startup companies.

5. Confirmation of Salary Level
Your salary at the new job must be equal to or higher than that of a Japanese employee in the same role. Be sure your employment contract clearly states your salary.

6. Relevance of Academic/Work History to Job Duties
Your new job duties must be related to your academic background or work experience. You must prove that your major or previous work experience matches your new duties.

7. Pension and Health Insurance Procedures
If there is a gap between jobs, you must handle procedures for National Pension and Health Insurance yourself. Any period of non-payment can affect future applications for permanent residence, so check with your local government office before leaving your job.

Overview of Procedures When Changing Jobs

• Submit a “Contract Termination Notification” within 14 days after resignation
• Submit a “New Affiliated Organization Notification” within 14 days after starting the new job
• Apply for a Certificate of Authorized Employment if necessary
• You can apply for status renewal from three months before your current status expires
• Prepare documents such as the new employment contract, business plan, financial documents, and certificate of resignation for renewal

Example

For example, Mr. A (28, male) from South Korea worked as a system engineer at an IT company in Tokyo for three years, then changed jobs to a startup in a rural area. He promptly submitted the required notifications and applied for a Certificate of Authorized Employment. Because the new company was recently established, he also submitted a business plan and cash flow statement, successfully renewing his status.

Summary

When changing jobs with the “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” status,

• Submit notifications within 14 days
• Ensure your new job duties match your academic/work background
• Confirm salary level
• Obtain a Certificate of Authorized Employment if needed
• Prepare detailed documents for renewal
  There are many points to watch. Delays or mistakes can lead to denial of status or unauthorized employment, so consult a specialist or administrative scrivener as soon as your job change is decided.