How to Report a Job Change to Immigration in Japan Online

Keeping your immigration records updated in Japan

For many foreign residents in Japan, changing jobs is a normal part of life. Whether you are moving to a new company, starting a different position or leaving your current employer, there is an important step that many people forget: notifying Immigration about the change.

In Japan, foreign residents with work-related residence statuses are generally required to report certain employment changes to the Immigration Services Agency within 14 days. While the process may sound difficult at first, Japan now offers an online notification system that allows many residents to complete the procedure from home.

Understanding how the system works can help make your move to a new job smoother and help you avoid problems during future visa procedures.

Photo credit: Japan Times

Who needs to submit a notification?

Foreign residents with work-related residence statuses are usually required to notify Immigration when there are changes related to their employment.

Common situations include:

• Leaving a company
• Starting a new job
• Changing employers
• Joining a different organization

This notification requirement applies to many work visas in Japan, including engineer, specialist in humanities, international services and other employment-based statuses.

The notification must generally be submitted within 14 days of the change.

Although it may feel stressful, this is considered a standard administrative procedure in Japan. Keeping your information updated helps Immigration maintain accurate records and may help avoid complications when renewing or changing your visa in the future.

The official online notification system

Japan’s Immigration Services Agency now provides an online notification system that allows eligible residents to submit notifications electronically instead of visiting an Immigration office in person.

The official system can be accessed here:

Immigration Online Notification System

For many foreign residents, the online system is much more convenient than traveling to Immigration offices, especially for people living far from major cities.

Benefits of using the online system include:

• Completing the process from home
• Saving travel and waiting time
• Accessing the system anytime with an internet connection
• Receiving confirmation records electronically

Even though some parts of the system may still appear in Japanese, online submission has made the process easier for many international residents in Japan.

What you should prepare before starting

Before beginning the online notification process, it is helpful to prepare all necessary information in advance.

You may need:

• Your residence card
• Your passport
• Employer information
• Your address and contact details
• An email address for account registration
• A stable internet connection

Preparing these items beforehand can help prevent delays while completing the form.

Overview of the notification process

The online reporting process is fairly straightforward once your documents are ready.

1. Create an account

First, create an account through the Immigration online notification system. You may need to verify your email address before continuing.

2. Log into the system

After registration, log into the portal and select the appropriate notification category based on your situation.

The Immigration Services Agency also provides official guides explaining how to use the system:

• English PDF Guide
• Japanese PDF Guide

3. Enter your information

Carefully enter your personal details and employment information. Make sure the information matches your official documents.

4. Review everything carefully

Before submitting, double-check all information for mistakes or missing details.

5. Submit the notification

Once completed, submit the notification online.

After submission, it is a good idea to save confirmation emails or screenshots for your records. These may be useful later during visa renewals or future immigration procedures.

Important things to keep in mind

There are several important points foreign residents should remember when using the online notification system.

First, this notification process is separate from visa renewals or extension applications. Submitting a job change notification does not automatically renew or update your residence period. Second, your information should always match your official documents, including your residence card and passport. It is also important to remember that some sections of the online system may still contain Japanese-only instructions. Using translation tools or asking for assistance may help if you are unsure about certain parts of the process. Missing the reporting deadline could create complications during future immigration applications or renewals. Because of this, it is best to complete the notification as soon as possible after changing jobs.

If you are uncertain about your situation, you may consider contacting Immigration directly or consulting a qualified immigration professional for guidance.

Photo credit: HRD

Life in Japan

Living and working in Japan comes with important responsibilities, including keeping your immigration information updated.

Fortunately, Japan’s online notification system has made the process more convenient and accessible for foreign residents. By staying organized and reporting employment changes on time, many residents can help make future immigration procedures smoother and less stressful.

Major life changes such as starting a new job can already feel overwhelming, especially while living abroad. Having access to reliable services and helpful information can make daily life in Japan easier for international residents adjusting to new opportunities and responsibilities. Services like Smiles Mobile Remittance can also help foreigners stay connected with loved ones back home by making it easier to send money, pay bills, and manage everyday financial needs while living in Japan.