退学後も留学ビザ期間が残っているから大丈夫？資格外活動の落とし穴/Is It Okay to Work After Withdrawal While on a Student Visa? The Hidden Risks of Unauthorized Activities

Is It Okay to Work After Withdrawal While on a Student Visa? The Hidden Risks of Unauthorized Activities

Some international students in Japan may have to withdraw from school for unavoidable reasons. However, if they assume that “it’s fine as long as my period of stay remains” and continue part-time jobs or other unauthorized activities, this can significantly affect their future visa renewals or status changes.

1. Legal Position of the Student Visa After Withdrawal

The Student visa is granted on the premise of being enrolled in an educational institution to study. Once a student withdraws, they no longer meet the requirements of the status, even if their period of stay has not yet expired.

2. Effect of the Permission to Engage in Other Activities

Most students obtain permission to engage in part-time jobs under the “Permission to Engage in Activity Other Than That Permitted.” But this is valid only when the student is actively pursuing their studies. Continuing part-time work after withdrawal falls outside this permission and may constitute unauthorized employment.

3. Impact on Future Procedures

• Renewal of the current status becomes difficult
• Status change applications (e.g., work visa, dependent visa) may be negatively affected
• Unauthorized employment may even lead to deportation or entry bans

4. What to Do After Withdrawal

• Consult the Immigration Bureau as early as possible
• Consider applying for a change of status (e.g., Temporary Visitor visa or another applicable status)
• Avoid unauthorized activities and prioritize lawful procedures

5. Conclusion

The assumption that “it’s fine as long as my period of stay remains” is very risky. Engaging in unauthorized activities after withdrawal can seriously affect future visa procedures. Always consult immigration authorities or a professional as early as possible.