Introduction
In recent years, Japanese ski resorts have faced growing demand for foreign ski instructors, and more employers are now using the “Designated Activities (Ski Instructor)” status of residence.
This article explains the basic framework, requirements, and application flow of this status, based on information from Japanese government authorities.
What Is “Designated Activities (Ski Instructor)”?
“Designated Activities” is a flexible status of residence under the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act that allows activities not covered by other existing categories.
Within this framework, “Ski Instructor (Ski Coach)” is classified as Designated Activities No. 50 under the public notice issued by the Minister of Justice.
The official list of designated activities published by the Immigration Services Agency clearly refers to “Ski Instructor” under No. 50, which allows qualified foreign nationals to engage in ski instruction in Japan under a contract with public or private institutions.
Holders of this status may lawfully work as ski instructors at ski resorts or ski schools in Japan and receive remuneration.
Main Requirements for Ski Instructors
The Designated Activities (Ski Instructor) category generally requires the following conditions, although the final judgment is made by immigration authorities in each individual case.
- The applicant must hold a certain level of ski instructor qualification, often referring to standards such as those certified by the Ski Instructors Association of Japan (SIA) or similar bodies.
- The applicant must engage in ski instruction activities in Japan under an employment or service contract with a public or private institution, such as a ski resort or ski school.
- The main duties must be ski instruction itself; if other simple labor jobs such as lift operation become the core activity, another status of residence may be more appropriate.
The period of stay is determined on a case‑by‑case basis, but in practice it is generally granted in units such as one year or six months, similar to other designated activities categories.
In all cases, immigration authorities carefully evaluate qualifications, contract details, and remuneration in an integrated manner.
Application Flow and Typical Documents
When Inviting a Ski Instructor from Abroad
If a ski resort in Japan wishes to invite a foreign ski instructor currently residing overseas, the Japanese company usually applies for a Certificate of Eligibility (CoE) for Designated Activities.
The Immigration Services Agency’s web page for ski instructors provides application forms, information on where to submit, and notes on identification documents required when a representative files the application.
Typical documents include the following, though exact requirements may vary depending on the local immigration office.
- Application form for Certificate of Eligibility (Designated Activities)
- Copy of the applicant’s passport, photographs, and personal information documents
- Copies of ski instructor qualification certificates and documents proving work experience as an instructor
- Employment contract or equivalent documents that clearly state working conditions with the Japanese host institution
- Corporate documents of the host institution, such as a commercial register certificate and financial statements
Once the CoE is issued, the foreign instructor applies for a visa at a Japanese embassy or consulate abroad and then enters Japan.
Change or Extension of Status in Japan
If a foreign national already residing in Japan under another status (for example, “Student”) wishes to start working as a ski instructor, they must apply for a “Change of Status of Residence” to Designated Activities (Ski Instructor).
For renewal, it is important to prove that the applicant continues to work as a ski instructor and still meets all the requirements, including updated contracts and evidence of ongoing professional activities.
Sample Scenario and Practical Points
- Example: Mr. A, an Australian national in his 30s, holds a recognized ski instructor qualification and has several years of professional experience, then signs a winter‑season employment contract with Ski Resort B in Japan.
In this scenario, immigration officers will carefully examine whether Mr. A’s qualification meets Japanese standards, whether instruction is his main duty, and whether the employment conditions are appropriate. - In addition, Ski Resort B is expected to show that the position requires a high level of expertise that is difficult to fill with local staff and that the instructor will contribute to safety management and high‑quality ski education.
Thus, the application should emphasize the professional nature of ski instruction, rather than simply describing a general labor shortage.
Because this status is limited to ski instruction activities, full‑time work in unrelated industries during the off‑season is generally not permitted.
Even when the employment contract itself is seasonal, the resort and the instructor must maintain consistency between the planned activities and the requested period of stay.
Conclusion
The Designated Activities (Ski Instructor) status under Public Notice No. 50 allows qualified foreign ski instructors to work in Japan under contracts with public or private institutions.
While it fills a unique niche that other work‑related statuses cannot cover, applications may be refused if the applicant does not fully meet the qualification and contract requirements.
To apply properly, both instructors and host institutions must check the latest public notices and guidelines issued by the Ministry of Justice and the Immigration Services Agency, prepare proof of ski qualifications, clarify contract details, and gather documents demonstrating the professional nature of the activities.
Those who wish to work in Japan as ski instructors, as well as Japanese ski resorts and schools planning to hire foreign instructors, are advised to seek professional advice tailored to their specific circumstances.
