Designated Activities (Job Hunting for International Graduates)

The Designated Activities (Job Hunting) status lets international graduates of Japanese universities, junior colleges, and vocational schools stay in Japan after graduation to continue their job search. Applicants must have held Student status at graduation and been actively job hunting beforehand.

The initial stay is 6 months, renewable once — capped at 1 year total. Part-time work up to 28 hours per week requires a separate permit. A school recommendation letter and proof of funds (¥500,000 for 6 months or ¥1,000,000 for a year) are required. There is no permanent residence pathway.

This visa is ideal for international graduates of Japanese institutions who need extra time to secure a job offer aligned with their field of study.