Post-Graduation Job-Hunting Activity Visa
Pathway from student status through job hunting to Engineer/Humanities application after receiving an offer
There is a 'Designated Activities (Job Hunting)' visa for international students who have graduated from Japanese universities or graduate schools and wish to continue job hunting. Job hunting can continue for up to 6 months after graduation, and after receiving a job offer, a prompt application to change to Engineer/Humanities is needed. New graduate hiring has unique review points.
Who this is for: International students who have graduated from a Japanese university or graduate school and wish to find employment in Japan.
Case-by-Case Review Points & Strategies
Case 1: Continuing Job Search After Graduation (Change to Designated Activities)
Low RiskSituation
Graduated from university in March but has not yet received a job offer. Wants to continue job hunting in Japan
Strategy
Before the residence period expires (student visa after graduation), apply for a status change to Designated Activities (Job Hunting). Consult the university's career center and get a certificate stating you will continue job hunting after graduation.
Key Point: Residence period under Designated Activities (Job Hunting) is generally 6 months. Renewal is generally allowed only once, for a maximum of 1 year total. After receiving a job offer, promptly apply to change to Engineer/Humanities.
Case 2: Engineer/Humanities Application After Receiving a New Graduate Offer
Low RiskSituation
Majored in information engineering at a Japanese university and received a job offer from an IT company. Applying for Engineer/Humanities via status change
Strategy
Prepare graduation certificate, academic transcript (clearly indicating major), employer's job offer letter (including work conditions), and company brochure. No work experience is needed as a new graduate, but a statement clearly explaining the connection between the major and job duties significantly impacts the review.
Key Point: The 'connection between major and job duties' is the core of the review. For example, IT system development has high affinity with science/engineering degrees, but a liberal arts major being hired as an SE requires an explanation of relevance. Clearly state that the company's duties correspond to Engineer/Humanities activities.
Common Mistakes & Pitfalls
Starting work while the residence period has expired after receiving a job offer (illegal overstay) risks cancellation of employment and residence status. Upon receiving an offer, promptly apply for a status change before the residence period expires. The March-April hiring season is especially busy at immigration, so allow 2-3 months for the application.
Free Consultation with an Immigration Specialist
Residence status applications involve complex procedures including document preparation and communication with immigration authorities. Our specialized immigration consultants offer free consultations.