The ironclad rule of "Graduation = End of Part-time Work. Avoid the "April Wall" that foreign students fall into and the risk of illegal employment by companies.

Can I work even if my "period of stay" is still valid?

Many foreign students and employers mistakenly believe that they can work until the expiration date of their residence card.

• Facts: From the date of graduation (or expulsion) from school, the "Permission to Engage in Activity other than that Permitted under the Status of Residence" associated with the status of "College Student" will cease to be effective.
• Risks: Taking a shift after the graduation ceremony in mid-March with the intention of "making some extra money" until the April commencement ceremony or until returning home is legally considered "illegal work".

2. "Aiding and Abetting Illegal Employment" with severe penalties

The law was revised in June 2025, significantly increasing penalties for companies that allow illegal employment.

• Penalties: Imprisonment for up to 5 years or a fine of up to 5 million yen (up from the previous 3 years/3 million yen).
• Corporate Responsibility: Even if an employee was working without permission, the excuse of "I didn't know" will not be accepted if the corporation failed to check. In the case of a corporation, a fine of up to 100 million yen may be imposed.

3. switch to "specific activities" if continuing job search

If you do not receive a job offer by the time of graduation and wish to continue job hunting in Japan after April, you will need to apply to change your status to "Specified Activities (Continuous Job Hunting Activities).

• Notes: This application requires a "letter of recommendation" from the school, and the ironclad rule is to start preparing before graduation.
• Benefits: If you change to this status and obtain another "Permission to Engage in Activity other than that Permitted under the Status of Residence", you will be able to continue to work part-time up to 28 hours per week.

Summary: To protect the city of Kyoto and its future professionals

Kyoto is home to many universities and attracts excellent international students. If they "inadvertently" end up working illegally, it can be fatal to their future permanent residence applications and work visas. Dear business owners and students, March is not only a time of "celebration" but also a time of legal "changeover". When in doubt, don't hesitate to contact a specialist.