If you are currently studying in Japan and wish to remain in the country after your graduation in 2026, you must transition your legal status. To work full-time or continue searching for employment, you need to apply for a change in your status of residence. This guide outlines the necessary steps, timelines, and paperwork required to successfully transition from a student visa to a professional or job-seeking status.
How can I stay in Japan to work after graduation?
Foreign residents in Japan live under one of 29 distinct status of residence categories. As an international student, your current status is "Student," which does not permit full-time employment. If you secure a full-time position, you must change your status to an appropriate work visa before you begin working.
Common categories for employment include "Engineer" or "Specialist in Humanities/International Services." To make this transition, you must submit an application to the Japanese immigration authorities. You should visit your nearest regional immigration office, bureau branch, or local branch in person to submit your application. It is highly recommended to call the office in advance to verify their specific business hours and any local procedures.
What documents do I need to change to a work visa?
The application process requires documents from three different parties: yourself, your new employer, and your school. Preparing these in advance will help prevent delays.
Documents you must prepare yourself:
- Your valid passport or travel document.
- Your current physical residence card.
- A completed Application for Change of Status of Residence form, which you can obtain directly at the immigration counter.
- A personal resume in any format, detailing your complete educational history and specific job types.
Documents you must obtain from your employer:
- A copy of your employment contract (a letter of employment or resignation letter from your previous position is also acceptable). This document must clearly state your job duties in detail, the duration of your contract, and your compensation.
- A certified copy of the company's commercial register, which must be issued within the last three months.
- The company's recent financial reports, specifically the balance sheets and income statements.
- Official company brochures or other descriptive materials explaining the business activities.
Documents you must obtain from your school:
- Your original graduation certificate, or an official certificate of expected graduation if you apply before finishing your course.
Can I stay in Japan if I have not found a job yet?
If you graduate without a job offer, you do not have to leave Japan immediately. You can apply to change your status of residence to "Designated Activities" specifically for continuous job hunting.
This status is initially granted for a period of six months. You are permitted a single extension, allowing you to remain in Japan for a maximum of one year after graduation to continue your job search.
To apply for this status, you will need to prepare:
- An application form for permission to change your status of residence, available at the regional immigration office.
- A recent photograph.
- Your passport.
- Your residence card (or an equivalent alien registration certificate).
- Documents proving your financial ability to cover all living expenses during your extended stay.
- Identification documents to authenticate yourself.
Please note that the exact requirements can vary based on your educational background, such as whether you graduated from a university specified under the School Education Act of Japan or completed a specialized course at a professional training college. Because individual situations differ, you should always verify your specific eligibility and requirements on the official Ministry of Justice website or consult the JASSO Immigration Procedures page.
Finding a place to stay
When transitioning from student life to job hunting or working in Tokyo, arranging your housing is a key step. It is best to secure your accommodation once your employment or visa extension plans are clear. For a smooth transition, look for flexible housing that does not require long-term commitments. OHAYO Stay offers furnished monthly apartments and rooms in Tokyo; most homes have a minimum stay of 30 nights (shown on each listing). The monthly price includes electricity, gas, water and Wi-Fi. No guarantor, no key money and no agency fee; booking is online with a passport or ID and a credit card. This allows you to settle into your new professional life without the stress of traditional Japanese renting procedures.
FAQ
How long can I stay in Japan to look for a job after graduating?
You can stay for up to one year by changing your status to "Designated Activities" for continuous job hunting. This status is granted for six months and can be extended once.
Where do I submit my application to change my status of residence?
You must apply in person at your nearest regional immigration bureau, bureau branch, or branch office.
What company documents are required for a work visa application?
You need a copy of your employment contract, a certified copy of the commercial register issued within the last three months, recent financial reports (balance sheets and income statements), and company brochures.
Sources
- Study in Japan(JASSO)「Changing Status of Residence｜Study in Japan Official Website」(checked 2026-10-09)
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.