Part-time work rules for international students
Students need permission for activity outside their status and can work up to 28 hours a week across all jobs. Only during school holidays can they work up to 8 hours a day. Breaking the rule can cost you your residence status.
Three basic rules
- Get permission. Check the back of your residence card for "permission to engage in activity other than that permitted". You may be able to apply at the airport when you arrive (University of Tokyo).
- 28 hours a week. Any 7 days in a row must total 28 hours or less, whichever day you count from. If you have more than one job, all hours count together (Shiodome).
- 8 hours a day during long school holidays. Only during summer and winter breaks set by your school's rules, up to 40 hours a week (same source).
Jobs you can't do
Even with permission, you can't work at businesses covered by the Adult Entertainment Business Act, such as bars where staff entertain customers (Osaka University). You can't work while on leave from school (University of Tokyo).
If you break the rules
Working over the limit counts as illegal work. You may be deported, and the employer can be punished too (Money Forward). "The shop said it was fine" is not an excuse.
Finding safe work
- Your school's notice board or introductions
- Hello Work's desks for foreign residents
- Job sites for foreign residents, such as YOLO JAPAN (free; in English, Vietnamese, Chinese, Korean and Portuguese). Always check the job fits the 28-hour rule before you accept.
Write down your hours every week.
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