For International Students – What to Know Before Starting a Part-Time Job

For International Students – What to Know Before Starting a Part-Time Job

Hello! This is Megumi International Administrative Scrivener Office.
With the start of a new academic year, more and more international students can be seen shopping for daily necessities at electronics stores, furniture shops, and drugstores. Life in Japan is just beginning for many—how exciting! I still clearly remember my first day studying abroad in Shanghai. Everything was new—the scenery, the atmosphere, even the smells in the air. It was the start of a wonderful adventure.

While your main purpose in Japan is to study, working part-time offers great opportunities to learn about Japanese culture and make new friends. However, there are some important things you should be aware of before you start. Let’s go over them together!

Before You Start – 3 Things to Check

Make sure to check the following three points before taking on any part-time work:

1. Do you have permission to work?
   
   If you’re on a “Student” visa, you cannot work without permission. You must apply for Permission to Engage in Activity Other Than That Permitted by the Status of Residence. This allows you to work up to 28 hours per week during school terms, and up to 40 hours per week during long vacations. Apply at your local Immigration Office with your passport, residence card, and application form.
2. Are the job conditions fair and legal?
   
   Japan’s labor laws apply to international students too. For shifts longer than 6 hours, you must receive at least a 45-minute break. Check that your wage meets the minimum wage in your area (Minimum Wage by Region | MHLW). Note: You are not allowed to work in adult entertainment venues such as pachinko parlors, snack bars, or game centers. Be sure to keep a copy of your employment contract!
3. Check your scholarship terms
   
   If you are receiving a scholarship, part-time work may be restricted or prohibited. Please confirm the conditions carefully to avoid any issues.

After You Start – 2 Essential Procedures

Once you start working, don’t forget these two important procedures:

1. Submit your My Number
   
   You need to give your My Number to your employer in order to receive your salary. This number is issued to all residents of Japan. Please keep your My Number Notification Letter (paper) or My Number Card (plastic) safe and secure.
2. File your tax return
   
   If you file a tax return at your local tax office, you may receive a refund of taxes that were withheld from your pay. The tax year is from January 1 to December 31, and filing is from February 16 to March 15 of the following year. If you earn more than ¥1,030,000 per year or work at multiple part-time jobs, you may be required to file. Also, if your country has a tax treaty with Japan, you may qualify for a tax reduction or exemption. To claim this, you must submit the “Notification for Income Tax Convention” (National Tax Agency Info).

How We Can Help – Megumi International Administrative Scrivener Office

We hope this article helps you feel more confident about working part-time in Japan.

At Megumi International Administrative Scrivener Office, we offer support in the following areas:

• Visa Applications
  Support for work visas, student visas, dependent visas, and more.
• Permanent Residency & Naturalization
  Step-by-step help for those wanting to stay long-term in Japan.
• Support for Hiring Foreign Workers
  Guidance for employers on hiring and managing foreign staff.
• Daily Life Support
  We help resolve everyday challenges of living in Japan.

When in Doubt, Just Ask!

If you’re ever unsure about a procedure or need help with paperwork, don’t hesitate to contact us.

At Megumi International Administrative Scrivener Office, we believe in being friendly and approachable. Our goal is to help you live in Japan with peace of mind and confidence.

[About Me]

I graduated from universities in both Japan and Shanghai and worked as a cabin crew member for 12 years.

“Supporting you even after you leave the airplane”

With this message in my heart, I’m committed to supporting your journey—past, present, and future.