This document provides a structured explanation of the residence status procedures applicable to individuals who wish to continue job hunting in Japan after graduating from a university or related institution.
- Job Hunting in the First Year After Graduation
International students who graduate from a university, graduate school, or vocational school (with the title of “Specialist”) and wish to continue job hunting after the expiration of their “Student” status may change their status to “Designated Activities,” provided that certain requirements are satisfied.
The main requirements include maintaining a proper residence record and obtaining a recommendation from the educational institution from which the applicant graduated.
The period of stay is six months, and one extension is permitted.
Therefore, applicants may remain in Japan for up to one year after graduation for job-hunting purposes.
- Job Hunting in the Second Year After Graduation
Individuals who have changed their status to “Designated Activities” during the first year and are engaged in job hunting may further change their status if they participate in a qualifying employment support program implemented by a local government and obtain official certification from that municipality.
The granted period of stay is six months, with one extension permitted.
This enables applicants to remain in Japan for up to one additional year during the second year after graduation, including participation in internships conducted as part of the program.
- Graduates of Overseas Universities Completing Japanese Language Institutions
Individuals who have obtained a bachelor’s degree or higher from an overseas university and subsequently graduate from a certified Japanese language institution in Japan may, under special provisions, change their status to “Designated Activities” in order to continue job hunting.
The period of stay is six months, with one extension permitted.
Key requirements include holding a bachelor’s degree or higher, maintaining approximately 90% attendance, possessing sufficient financial capability, engaging in job hunting while enrolled, attending regular meetings after graduation, and obtaining a recommendation letter from the institution.
The Japanese language institution must also meet certain requirements, including official accreditation, proper student management, employment support systems, and a record of successful employment placements.
- Permission for Part-Time Work
In all of the above cases, part-time work of up to 28 hours per week is permitted upon obtaining authorization for activities outside the permitted status.
Internships conducted as part of job hunting may be authorized to exceed 28 hours per week. In certain cases involving local government programs, separate permission may not be required.
For detailed procedures and required documentation, please refer to official publications issued by the Immigration Services Agency of Japan.
Our office offers free consultations regarding changes to your status of residence.
Please feel free to contact us.
Source: Immigration Services Agency of Japan
出典：出入国在留管理庁
https://www.moj.go.jp/isa/applications/resources/nyukan_nyukan84.html
