Part-Time Jobs in Japan for International Students
Part-time work (baito) is part of life for most international students in Japan. Convenience stores, restaurants, supermarkets, hotels, warehouses and food factories hire students in large numbers, and students with stronger Japanese also find tutoring, translation help, shop work in tourist areas and office assistance. The best roles fit around your timetable, are close to school or home, and give you a chance to use Japanese with customers and colleagues.
To work at all, you need permission to engage in activities outside your student status. Many new students receive it at the airport on arrival; otherwise you apply at an immigration office. The general limit is 28 hours per week in total across every job, with longer hours allowed during your school's official long holidays. Work at adult entertainment businesses is not allowed. The permission is tied to being a student, so check what applies before continuing to work after graduation.
A practical tip: take the hour limit seriously. Immigration can check your tax and income records when you renew your status or change to a work status after graduation, and exceeding the limit is one of the common reasons for problems at that stage. Keep your payslips, make sure employers record your hours accurately, and avoid cash-in-hand work. A steady part-time job also gives you Japanese references for your first full-time search.
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Frequently asked questions
How many hours can international students work in Japan?
With permission, generally up to 28 hours per week in total across all jobs. During the official long holidays set by your school, you can work longer hours. The limit applies week by week, so a heavy week cannot be balanced by a light one.
Where do I get permission to work part-time?
Many students receive it at the airport when they first arrive. If you did not, apply at a regional immigration office with your residence card and passport. The permission is noted on the back of your residence card.
Can overworking affect my future visa?
Yes. When you renew your student status or change to a work status such as Engineer/Specialist, your past income and hours can be reviewed. Exceeding the limit may lead to a refusal, so it is worth staying clearly within the rules.