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）
The documents are split between those you prepare yourself (the application form, your passport, your 在留カード (Residence Card), the new employment contract, your CV, a certificate of resignation, a certificate of tax payment and so on) and those your new employer prepares (a certificate of registered matters, a company profile, financial statements, a written reason for hiring you and so on). Until permission is granted, please do not start work at the new company.
An enquiry from someone moving to another company while keeping the same status of residence.
It depends on the work at the new employer. In some cases a notification is all that is needed.
If you stay within the scope of the same status of residence, and the contents of your work do not change greatly, the 所属機関等に関する届出 (Notification of the Accepting Organization) is enough. If the contents of your work change greatly, you apply for a 就労資格証明書 (Certificate of Authorized Employment). If a different status of residence is needed, you make an 在留資格変更許可申請 (Application for Change of Status of Residence).
How to tell which one applies to you is explained in detail in What procedures are needed when you change jobs on a work visa? Please look at that first.
In addition to the application form and identity documents, you need the new employment contract and proof that you have paid your taxes.
It makes the later procedures smoother if you ask for the certificate of resignation to be issued at the point when you tell the company you are leaving.
Documents showing that the company really exists and is stable, and the reason for hiring you.
Besides these, the 出入国在留管理局 (Immigration Services Bureau) may ask for further documents. Please work together with the HR staff at the new company and start preparing early.
From 1 month to 3 months. Please do not start work before permission is granted.
No. As a rule, you cannot work at the new company until permission is granted. It may amount to illegal work.
It commonly takes from 1 month to 3 months. It depends on the contents of the application and on how busy the office is.
A certificate of resignation (or a separation notice) from the company you are leaving is asked for. It goes smoothly if you ask for it to be issued at the point when you tell the company you are leaving.
Within 14 days of your employer changing. It can be made online or by post.
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Get a free consultationThis article provides general information. Immigration rules change, and outcomes depend on individual circumstances. Please check the Immigration Services Agency website or consult a qualified specialist.
This page is a translation of the Japanese original. Where the two differ, the Japanese version prevails.