This article is a translation of the Japanese original. Where the two differ, the Japanese version prevails. Read the Japanese original（日本語版を読む）
If the work of an assistant manager calls for specialised knowledge and judgement, such as planning how the shop is run and managing staff, it may fall under 在留資格「技術・人文知識・国際業務」 (Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services). However, it does not fall under that status where the work is mainly simple tasks such as the till and stocking shelves. As for Japanese ability, N2 or above is generally considered desirable.
An enquiry from a vocational school student who has been asked by the owner of the shop where he works part-time to become the assistant manager.
It depends on the content of the work. What divides the cases is whether specialised knowledge and judgement are accepted as necessary.
This status of residence applies where you are engaged in work that requires specialised knowledge or skills in the natural sciences, the humanities or the social sciences, or knowledge or skills needed for international work.
If the work of an assistant manager extends over a wide range of duties, such as running the shop, managing staff, managing stock, marketing and dealing with customers, and specialised knowledge and judgement are accepted as necessary, it may fall under this status. The chances are higher where the work includes planning how the shop is run, or dealing with foreign customers.
It does not fall under this status where the work is simply the supply of labour in a shop and consists mainly of simple tasks such as the till and stocking shelves. This is the single biggest dividing line.
The connection between what you studied at the vocational school and the work.
The key points in screening are whether what you learned at the vocational school is connected with the work of an assistant manager, or whether you have acquired equivalent specialised knowledge and ability through your part-time work so far.
Start by talking with the owner in detail about exactly what the work of an assistant manager will be, and what responsibility and authority you will be given. On that basis, set out clearly how it connects with what you studied.
N2 or above is generally considered desirable.
As well as day-to-day exchanges with customers, you need a wide range of Japanese ability: giving instructions to staff, and reporting and keeping the owner informed.
N3 of the Japanese-Language Proficiency Test is described as "being able to understand Japanese used in everyday situations to a certain degree", and this is generally considered to be the minimum needed for serving customers and for basic instructions at work. However, if you think about smooth exchanges and understanding more complex work, N2 or above is desirable.
Settle the content of the work first, then talk to the Regional Immigration Services Bureau with jurisdiction over your area.
No. Where the work is simply the supply of labour and consists mainly of simple tasks, it does not fall under 「技術・人文知識・国際業務」.
N2 or above is generally considered desirable. About N3 is said to be the minimum for serving customers and for basic instructions at work.
The connection between what you studied and the content of the work is screened. What matters is whether you can explain that connection in concrete terms.
The final decision is made by the Immigration Services Agency of Japan, so please talk to the Regional Immigration Services Bureau with jurisdiction over your area in advance. You are also welcome to consult the gyoseishoshi on this site.
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This page is a translation of the Japanese original. Where the two differ, the Japanese version prevails.