Part-Time Work Rights for International Students in Japan 2026

Japan allows international students to work part-time, providing an important way to offset living costs in one of Asia's most expensive study destinations. Understanding the legal framework — including the 28-hour weekly limit and the permit application process — is essential before you begin working.

Japan allows international students to work part-time, providing an important way to offset living costs in one of Asia’s most expensive study destinations. Understanding the legal framework — including the 28-hour weekly limit and the permit application process — is essential before you begin working.

Permission to Engage in Activity Other than Permitted Status

International students in Japan on a Student Visa are not automatically permitted to work. You must first apply for 資格外活動許可 (Shikaku-gai Katsudou Kyoka) — Permission to Engage in Activity Other than that Permitted under Status of Residence. This permission is typically applied for at the regional Immigration Services Bureau when you register after arrival.

Most language schools and universities advise students to apply for this permission immediately upon arrival. Processing is straightforward for student visa holders and is generally approved within 2–4 weeks. The permission sticker is stamped into your residence card (在留カード, Zairyuu Kaado).

The 28-Hour Weekly Work Limit

During term time (while courses are in session), international students may work a maximum of 28 hours per week. This limit is strictly enforced and applies across all employers — if you work multiple jobs, the total across all jobs must not exceed 28 hours.

During designated vacation periods (university breaks, school holidays), the limit is lifted and students may work full-time hours — effectively unlimited. This creates a significant earning opportunity during summer and winter breaks.

Exceeding the 28-hour limit is treated as a visa violation. Repeat violations can result in deportation and a ban on future Japan entry. Immigration Japan conducts periodic checks on student workers, particularly in industries known for employing international students.

Minimum Wage in Japan by Prefecture

Japan’s minimum wage is set at the prefecture level and updated each October. As of 2026, key rates are:

Common Part-Time Jobs for International Students

Convenience Store (コンビニ)

Convenience stores — FamilyMart, Lawson, 7-Eleven — are the most common employers of international students in Japan. Tasks include cashier work, stocking shelves, preparing food, and cleaning. The work is repetitive but stable, shifts are flexible, and many stores in urban areas have multilingual staff. Basic Japanese (N4–N3 level) is generally required.

Restaurant and Izakaya (居酒屋)

Japanese restaurants and izakaya (traditional Japanese gastropubs) frequently hire international students for kitchen prep, table service, and dishwashing. Evening and weekend shifts pay slightly higher rates. Some upscale restaurants pay ¥1,200–¥1,500/hour for experienced floor staff.

English Teaching / Tutoring

Nepali students proficient in English can find tutoring work with Japanese students preparing for EIKEN or TOEIC exams, or private conversation practice. Online English teaching platforms like iTalki or Native Camp allow flexible remote work. Rates range from ¥1,500–¥3,000/hour for private tutoring.

Factory and Warehouse Work

Industrial areas outside major cities offer factory assembly and warehouse work with higher hourly wages (¥1,100–¥1,400/hour) and minimal Japanese language requirements. Many factories have Nepali and South Asian workers and basic safety instructions are provided in multiple languages.

My Number Card (個人番号カード)

The My Number Card (Kojin Bangou Kaado) is Japan’s national identification system. Your My Number is issued shortly after you register your address at the local municipal office (市区町村). You will need this number for tax registration, opening a bank account, and formally registering with your employer. Apply for the physical card at your local municipal office — it takes 1–2 months to arrive but is not strictly required to begin work.

Tax Residence and Income Tax

If you live in Japan for more than one year, you are classified as a tax resident and your worldwide income is subject to Japanese income tax. However, student part-time earnings are generally low enough to fall below the basic deduction threshold (¥480,000 basic + ¥550,000 employment income deduction = ¥1,030,000 effective floor). Many students pay no income tax at all but should file a tax return each March regardless.

Nepali Community Networks for Job Leads

Japan has a growing Nepali community of over 150,000 residents, making it easier than ever to find job leads through community connections. Facebook groups like “Nepali in Japan (ネパール人in日本)” and “Nepali Students in Tokyo” regularly post part-time job openings. Nepali-owned restaurants and businesses in Tokyo’s Nishi-Waseda, Toshima, and Shin-Okubo areas often hire Nepali-speaking staff. Building these community connections early will significantly help your job search in the first few months.

Language Reality Check

The single biggest challenge for Nepali students seeking part-time work in Japan is the Japanese language requirement. The majority of part-time jobs in Japan require at least JLPT N4 (basic communication ability), and customer-facing roles in convenience stores and restaurants practically require N3. Investing seriously in Japanese language study — both before and during your studies — directly translates to better job access and higher hourly wages.

Frequently Asked Questions