Can Dependent Work in Japan?

Imagine you're living in Japan, either as an expat or because your spouse is on a working visa. You're eager to start working, but you wonder—can a dependent legally work in Japan? The answer is nuanced. This question is critical for thousands of foreign dependents who move to Japan each year. Japan, known for its strict immigration laws, does allow dependents to work, but under specific conditions.

Dependent Visa in Japan: A Breakdown

The dependent visa, classified as a "spouse or child of a foreign national" visa, typically allows family members of those on working visas to live in Japan. However, the dependent visa does not automatically grant full work rights. The fundamental restriction is that dependents can work only with special permission from the immigration office, and even then, they are limited to part-time work, capped at 28 hours per week.

Why 28 Hours?

This cap isn't arbitrary. It aligns with the Japanese government’s focus on preserving the primary purpose of the dependent visa: family reunification, not employment. The Japanese immigration office expects dependents to primarily support their working spouse or family member and not take on full-time work.

Process of Applying for Work Permission

If you're on a dependent visa and wish to work, you must apply for a "Permission to Engage in Activity Other than that Permitted under the Status of Residence Previously Granted." This is typically done at the local immigration bureau. Once granted, you're allowed to work within the 28-hour limit. The application process is generally straightforward:

1. Complete an application form at the immigration office.
2. Submit supporting documents, such as a copy of your passport and resident card, along with a letter from your potential employer outlining your working conditions.
3. Wait for approval, which can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks.

It’s worth noting that this permission can only be granted for specific jobs. For example, dependents can work in part-time positions in retail, hospitality, or language teaching. Professional jobs, like those requiring a specific visa type, are typically out of reach.

Industries Where Dependents Often Find Work

Now, you may be wondering—what are the best jobs for dependents in Japan? Generally, these include:

• Language Teaching: Many dependents find part-time jobs as English language tutors, either in private schools or one-on-one tutoring sessions.
• Retail: Positions in shops, supermarkets, and department stores are also common. These jobs are relatively flexible and often don’t require advanced Japanese language skills.
• Hospitality: Working in restaurants, cafes, or hotels can be another option. These roles might require a basic understanding of Japanese but are usually accommodating to foreign workers.

Salary Expectations

In these roles, dependents can expect to earn anywhere between ¥1,000 to ¥1,500 per hour, depending on the industry and location. For example, teaching positions in Tokyo might offer higher wages than retail jobs in rural areas. If a dependent works the maximum allowed 28 hours per week, they could potentially make around ¥140,000 to ¥168,000 per month, enough to cover some personal expenses but not enough to support a family.

Industry	Average Hourly Wage (¥)	Job Availability
Language Teaching	1,200 - 2,500	High
Retail	1,000 - 1,200	Moderate
Hospitality	1,100 - 1,400	High

Case Studies: Success and Challenges

Consider Maria, whose husband works for an international company in Tokyo. Maria secured a part-time job teaching English at a local school. She applied for the 28-hour work permission and was approved within two weeks. Maria's case illustrates how dependents can successfully integrate into the Japanese workforce, even with limited working hours.

On the other hand, Daniel, another dependent, faced challenges. While he found a job offer in a marketing firm, his application for permission to work was denied because the role did not align with his dependent visa status. Daniel's story highlights a critical challenge: not all job opportunities are available to dependents, especially in professional sectors.

The Future of Dependent Work in Japan

As Japan faces an aging population and labor shortages, some advocate for more flexible working options for dependents. There is a growing debate about whether the current system—limiting dependents to 28 hours—should be revised. Economic analysts suggest that allowing dependents to work more hours could help address labor shortages, particularly in service industries.

Moreover, the trend of remote work may also play a role in the future. As more jobs shift online, dependents might find more opportunities to work remotely, possibly even for companies outside of Japan. This opens up a whole new range of possibilities, but it also raises questions about how the immigration office will regulate such work, given the strict hours cap.

Navigating the Job Market as a Dependent

If you're a dependent looking to work in Japan, here are some tips to navigate the system effectively:

1. Understand the limitations: Before you start job hunting, ensure you're clear about the 28-hour work limit and what types of jobs you can apply for.
2. Learn some Japanese: While it’s possible to find work without fluent Japanese, learning the language will expand your job options significantly.
3. Seek out expat networks: Many cities in Japan have expat communities where job opportunities for dependents are frequently shared. Use these networks to your advantage.
4. Consider remote work: If you're skilled in areas like graphic design, writing, or coding, explore remote work opportunities that align with the 28-hour cap but may not require you to work in a traditional Japanese setting.

Is Working as a Dependent Worth It?

This is a personal decision that depends on various factors. For some, the additional income is worth the effort of navigating the immigration system and job market. For others, the restrictions make it difficult to find meaningful work. However, with Japan’s evolving labor landscape, the situation for dependents could improve in the coming years, making the prospect of working in Japan even more appealing.

Final Thoughts

In summary, while it is possible for dependents to work in Japan, there are significant restrictions. The key is to understand the 28-hour limit, seek permission from immigration, and focus on industries where part-time work is available. As Japan continues to adapt to labor shortages, the rules surrounding dependent work may evolve, providing more opportunities for those living in the country on dependent visas.

Dependent work in Japan is a balancing act—one where you must carefully navigate legal constraints while seeking opportunities. It’s not impossible, but it requires patience, planning, and persistence.