When a foreign national wants to work and earn income in Japan, they need a residence status that corresponds to their type of work. The general term "work visa" is commonly used to refer to all residence statuses that permit employment.
In reality, there is no single visa or residence status called a "work visa" — it is simply a convenient umbrella term.
Residence Statuses with No Work Restrictions
Certain residence statuses, such as "Spouse or Child of a Japanese National" or "Spouse or Child of a Permanent Resident," have no restrictions on activities in Japan. Holders of these statuses may engage in any type of work without needing additional permission.
*Holders of "Dependent" status are generally prohibited from working. To work, they must obtain permission to engage in activities other than those permitted under their status, which only allows up to 28 hours per week.




