If you are planning to do an activity which is not related to your present status of eligibility in Japan, you may need to apply for “Permission to Engage in an Activity Other Than That Permitted by the Status of Residence Previously Granted” (hereinafter referred as Shikakugai Katsudou).
If you did such activity without the permission, it can be a reason of enforced repatriation.
However, there are some exceptions that do not require Shikakugai Katsudou permission.
Here is the quick check chart whether you need to apply for the permission or not.
（Click to view larger graph）
How to read the chart:
Q1. Permanent Resident, Spouse of Japanese / PR, or Long Term Resident
If you are a permanent resident, spouse or Japanese or permanent resident, or long term resident, you can do any kind of activities. So, you do not need “Shikakugai Katsudou” permission.
*Be careful! “Dependent” is different from spouse. If your status of residence is dependent, and want to work for getting the income, you will be required to apply for the permission.
Q2. Characteristics of the planned activity
If the planned activity is included in the range of your current status of residence, you may not be required to apply for the permission.
Q3. How often will you be engaged in that activity?
If the planned activity is only temporary, you do not need to apply for the permission (there is an exception for students. please check the chart).
For example, if you got a reward for,
- temporary housekeeping support for your friends or relatives,
- guest speech or lecture of the special event,
- Artistic or technical work (book, pictures, computer programming etc…)
If you are not a permanent resident, spouse or Japanese or permanent resident, or long term resident, please consider Q2. & Q3. carefully.
If your answer is “Don’t know”, I recommend to consult with immigration law professional Gyoseishoshi Lawyer or Bengoshi.
Co-en office also welcomes your questions. Please feel free to ask (No charge for the initial consultation).