If you are an international student graduating in Japan, you must change your residence status before starting full-time employment or continuing your job search. Transitioning from a Student status to a professional status such as Engineer or Specialist in Humanities/International Services requires submitting specific documentation from yourself, your employer, and your university to an immigration bureau office. This guide outlines the official requirements and practical steps for international students completing their studies in Japan in 2026.
What status of residence options are available after graduation in Japan?
Foreign residents in Japan live under one of 29 categories for status of residence. When you complete your academic studies and accept a job offer, you cannot work full-time under a Student visa. You must switch your status to a suitable employment category, such as Specialist in the Humanities/International Services or Engineer, depending on your field of work.
If you have not secured employment by your graduation date, Japan allows graduating students to remain in the country to continue job hunting. To do this, you can apply to switch your visa to Designated Activities. This status is initially granted for six months and can be extended once, allowing for a maximum total duration of one year dedicated to job searching after graduation.
What documents do you need for a work visa status change?
When transitioning from a Student status to a work-permitted status like Engineer or Specialist in Humanities/International Services, you must assemble documents from three separate parties: yourself, your employer, and your university.
From your personal records, you need to prepare:
- Your valid passport (or equivalent travel document).
- Your residence card.
- An official Application for Change of Status of Residence (forms are available at regional immigration bureau counters).
- A complete resume detailing accurate educational history and job categories.
From your graduating school, you must provide:
- An original certificate of graduation, or an official certificate of expected graduation if applying before completing your studies.
From your prospective employer, you must obtain:
- A copy of your employment contract, a letter of employment, or a resignation letter from the employing company detailing the specific type of work, employment duration, and compensation amount.
- A certified copy of the company's commercial register, issued within the past three months.
- Financial reports including recent balance sheets and income statements.
- Official company brochures or descriptive materials detailing the company's business activities.
What if you need more time to find a job after graduating?
If you are still searching for employment at graduation, you must switch from Student to Designated Activities for continuous job hunting. The required paperwork for this application includes:
- An Application form for permission for change of status of residence.
- A recent photograph.
- Your passport.
- Your residence card or equivalent alien registration certificate.
- Documentation certifying your financial ability to pay all living expenses during your extended stay in Japan.
- Documents to authenticate your identity.
Specific document requirements vary depending on whether you graduated from a university defined under Japan's School Education Act or earned a diploma from a specialized course at a professional training college. Individual requirements must be verified directly with official sources such as the Ministry of Justice website or the Study in Japan immigration guide.
Where and how do you apply for a status change?
To submit your change of status application, you must personally visit your local regional immigration bureau, bureau branch, or branch office in Japan. It is recommended to contact the office by phone prior to your visit to confirm their operating hours and any specific procedural updates. Please note that individual circumstances vary, and applicants should always consult official immigration authorities for authoritative legal rules.
Finding a place to stay
Arranging suitable housing in Tokyo is an essential step when transitioning from student life to professional work or extending your stay for job hunting. During this period of transition, securing a flexible living situation before your new status or residence details are finalized helps avoid unnecessary stress. OHAYO Stay offers furnished monthly apartments and rooms in Tokyo. No guarantor, no key money and no agency fee; booking is online with a passport or ID and a credit card. Furthermore, the monthly price includes electricity, gas, water and Wi-Fi, making budgeting clear and simple while you settle into your professional role in Japan.
FAQ
Can international students stay in Japan to look for a job after graduation?
Yes, graduating students can apply to change their status to Designated Activities for job hunting, which allows a stay of six months with a one-time extension for up to one year total.
What documents must the applicant prepare when changing to an Engineer or Specialist in Humanities visa?
Applicants must prepare their passport, residence card, Application for Change of Status of Residence, and a detailed resume covering educational background and job history.
Where do you submit the visa status change application in Japan?
Applications must be submitted in person at your nearest regional immigration bureau, bureau branch, or branch office.
Sources
- Study in Japan(JASSO)「Changing Status of Residence｜Study in Japan Official Website」(checked 2026-10-29)
This article was created by OHAYO Stay based on the sources above (edited, reorganized and translated). It is not an official publication.
Rules and dates can change. Always confirm with the official source before you apply.