Can Foreign Interns in Japan Take on Part-Time Jobs?

The question of whether foreign interns in Japan are allowed to take on part-time jobs is a common concern for those exploring Japan’s internship and labor export programs. Some claim that interns are strictly prohibited from taking extra work, while others suggest it is permissible. So, what is the accurate answer? Let HSB JAPAN help you explore the details below.

1. Are Foreign Interns in Japan Allowed to Take on Part-Time Jobs?

Foreign interns in Japan are not permitted to engage in other jobs outside their assigned roles after entering the country unless they are granted permission to do so at the time of entry or as per overtime policies specific to their company or organization.

This restriction is based on Japanese labor laws, which stipulate that individuals with specific residence statuses are prohibited from participating in activities or jobs outside the scope of their visa. Violations of these rules can lead to severe penalties, including immediate deportation.
For example, an intern on a construction visa is only allowed to work within the designated field and for the assigned employer. Any external work outside the permitted scope is illegal and could result in deportation if discovered.

Conclusion: Interns are allowed to take on extra work only if it is assigned by their employer. Any unauthorized work outside the registered scope is strictly prohibited.

2. Regulations on Overtime Work for Foreign Interns in Japan

In this section, we delve into the legal framework for overtime work, which is a common way for interns to supplement their income.

Permissible Overtime Hours

According to Japanese labor laws, the permissible working hours for employees, including interns, are as follows:

• Daily and Weekly Hours: Interns can work up to 10 hours per day and 40 hours per week.
• Overtime Limits: Overtime work must not exceed 50% of the total daily work hours, with a maximum of 45 hours per month and 360 hours per year.
• Holiday and Night Work: Workers may work up to 12 hours on holidays, and night shifts from 10 PM to 5 AM are subject to special rates.

Overtime Pay Rates

Japanese companies calculate overtime pay based on labor law standards:

• Weekday Overtime (5 PM – 10 PM): 125% of the base hourly wage.
• Night Overtime (10 PM – 5 AM): 125% of the base hourly wage.
• Holiday Overtime (Saturday, Sunday, and public holidays): 135% of the base hourly wage.
• Special Holiday Overtime: 160%-200% of the base hourly wage.

For instance, if an intern typically earns 1,000 yen per hour and works 4 overtime hours in the evening, the hourly overtime pay would increase to 1,250 yen (25% extra).

Additional Notes on Income

Unlike regular jobs, overtime income is not typically subject to deductions for food, insurance, or transportation, allowing interns to retain most of their earnings.

3. Important Considerations for Foreign Interns Taking on Overtime

While interns may legally engage in overtime work, it is essential to follow these guidelines:

• Document Overtime Hours: Keep accurate records to verify pay and avoid disputes.
• Avoid Unauthorized Work: Violating labor laws can result in deportation or other penalties.
• Notify Authorities When Necessary: Ensure transparency by informing relevant authorities about overtime work arrangements.

4. Common Questions from Foreign Interns About Overtime

Q1: Which industries offer the most overtime opportunities?
Construction, agriculture, and food processing frequently offer overtime due to their operational demands.

Q2: Can interns take on overtime in a different field?
This depends on the company’s policies and the specific skill set of the intern. Approval from the employer is mandatory.

Q3: Are there work-from-home options for overtime?
Certain fields, such as IT and design, may allow interns to work overtime from home. However, explicit approval is required.

Q4: Can interns switch companies for more overtime opportunities?
Interns can transfer companies under specific conditions, such as employer bankruptcy or mistreatment. However, switching solely to seek additional overtime is not permitted.

Conclusion

Foreign interns in Japan are restricted from engaging in part-time jobs outside their assigned roles unless authorized by their employer. Legal overtime work is allowed and provides a legitimate way to increase income.

With over 15 years of experience, HSB JAPAN offers comprehensive support to interns in managing pensions, tax refunds, and labor rights in Japan. Contact us for expert guidance.