Gijin-Koku Visa and Freelance / Side Work Risk — Activities Outside Permitted Scope May Violate Residence Status

The "Engineer / Specialist in Humanities / International Services" residence status (技術・人文知識・国際業務, commonly called Gijin-Koku) is one of the most common work visas in Japan. However, this status defines a specific scope of permitted activities, and engaging in activities outside that scope — including certain forms of freelancing or side work — may constitute unauthorized work (在留資格違反), which carries serious legal consequences for both the individual and their employer.

What Activities Are Permitted Under Gijin-Koku

Why Freelancing and Side Work Creates Risk

Gijin-Koku is premised on work performed under a contract with a specific employer. The following situations frequently lead to violations:

• Taking on freelance projects without employer knowledge: Receiving compensation from another company or individual for work performed outside the primary employment contract may constitute unauthorized activity (資格外活動).
• Going fully independent / self-employed: Without a "contract with a corporation," Gijin-Koku may no longer apply. A change to the Business Manager (経営・管理) status may be required.
• Monetizing YouTube, social media, or similar platforms: Whether this counts as activity within the scope of Gijin-Koku depends on the content and circumstances. Prior confirmation with the Immigration Services Agency is advisable.
• Taking on manual or unskilled part-time work: This falls entirely outside the Gijin-Koku scope and requires a separate "Permission to Engage in Activity Other Than That Permitted Under the Status of Residence Previously Granted" (資格外活動許可).

Permission to Engage in Activity Outside Permitted Scope

If you wish to engage in activities beyond the Gijin-Koku scope (such as side work), you must apply in advance to the Immigration Services Agency for Permission to Engage in Activity Other Than That Permitted (資格外活動許可).

• Permitted activities are limited to those that do not interfere with the primary permitted activities.
• A general guideline is up to 28 hours per week of additional activity.
• If a comprehensive permission has already been granted, it may be noted on the back of your residence card — check before starting any additional work.

Risks If a Violation Is Discovered

• Employers who facilitate unauthorized work face criminal liability under the Immigration Act: up to 3 years' imprisonment or a fine of up to ¥3 million.
• The foreign national may become subject to deportation proceedings.
• Future applications for residence status renewal or change are likely to be refused.

Steps to Take Before Pursuing Side Work or Going Freelance

• Check the back of your residence card: Look for any notation regarding permission to engage in activities outside your status.
• Consult the Immigration Services Agency or an administrative scrivener: Confirm whether the planned activities fall within your permitted scope before starting.
• If going independent, consider a status change: A specialist can advise whether you need to apply for the Business Manager (経営・管理) status.

How Sakura Central Legal Office Can Help

We advise on permitted activity scope under Gijin-Koku, handle applications for permission to engage in outside activities, and assist with residence status change procedures. Consultations are available for both foreign nationals and employers. Free initial consultation.