When Your Visa Status and Actual Work Don’t Match

A Growing Risk in Japan’s Residence Screening

Last updated: January 2, 2026

“My job title hasn’t changed.” So what’s the problem?

Many foreign residents are surprised when Immigration raises questions about their work—even though their job title, employer, and visa category appear unchanged.

The reason is simple: Immigration is paying less attention to labels and far more attention to actual daily activities.

Why Immigration focuses on “actual work”

Japan’s work-related residence statuses are granted based on the assumption that specific types of activities will be performed.

In recent screening practice, Immigration increasingly asks:

• How is your time actually spent?
• What tasks occupy most of your working hours?
• Do these tasks align with the purpose of your status?

A mismatch does not require bad intent or deception. It often develops gradually as roles evolve.

Common mismatch patterns seen in practice

1) Manager in name, staff in reality

Holding a managerial title while spending most time on routine operational tasks can raise questions, particularly in smaller companies.

2) Specialist visa, general administrative work

Work visas require specialized activities. When day-to-day tasks become largely clerical or generic, alignment issues may arise.

3) Business owner doing everything

Business managers who personally handle sales, delivery, or on-site work as a main activity may face scrutiny.

4) Gradual role changes without explanation

Even legitimate changes can cause problems if Immigration is not clearly informed.

Why “I didn’t know” is no longer enough

Many applicants explain that their role changed naturally as the company grew or circumstances shifted.

While understandable, Immigration increasingly expects proactive explanations and, where necessary, timely status changes.

Who is most affected?

Activity mismatch issues commonly appear in:

• Engineer / Specialist in Humanities / International Services visas
• Business Manager visas
• Startups and small or growing companies
• Long-term residents whose roles have evolved over time

The risk increases when documentation does not clearly reflect actual work conditions.

How to reduce risk before applying

A professional perspective

Immigration decisions are discretionary.

When actual activities differ from expectations, the question becomes whether the situation can be clearly explained and justified.

Final message

A mismatch between visa status and actual work does not automatically mean refusal.

However, ignoring gradual changes until renewal time can create avoidable risk. Early review is often the safest option.