In the article “Things to remember when changing jobs”, we introduced “Certificate of Authorized Employment” when explaining what to do and what are the procedures when you are leaving a company and joining a new one. In this article, we will explain in detail about the “Certificate of Authorized Employment”.
What is Certificate of Authorized Employment
The Certificate of Authorized Employment is issued when a person changes their job. It allows the employer to clarify that the person has the VISA which permits them to work, to check if the person can work at the new company with the current VISA, etc.
When can it be useful?
It is mainly used when changing jobs. The VISA that you have is one that is granted based on the company and the job description of the previous job. Therefore, even if you have plenty of time before your expiration date, having the certificate is recommended to confirm that there are no problems even if you change the job as it confirms whether the VISA is valid for the new company.
It is recommended to obtain it in the following cases:
・Changing jobs to a company in a different industry (e.g from a trading company to an IT company)
・Changing jobs to a company of a smaller size than the previous company
You can obtain it either before or after changing jobs.
Merits of having it and risks of not having it
Merit
- It is not required to obtain it but having it will give a peace of mind not only to you but also to your new employment company as they employ you and you can work there with no hassle
- The VISA renewal process will be smooth. If you change jobs after obtaining the Certificate of Eligibility for Employment , the process and examination of whether the new company and job description is valid for the current VISA will be smoother as the certificate reflects that it is valid.
Risks of not having it
- The document submitted when changing your job does not determine if the VISA is valid for the new company and the job description. If you do not have the Certificate of Authorized Employment, your VISA will be checked the next time you renew it. If it is determined that the VISA is not valid, you may not be able to renew the VISA and may have to return to your country.
Documents needed
You can get the document from the immigration area of where you live. It costs around 1200円 and you will receive it in 1 to 3 months.
These are the following documents you need when applying for it
・Residence Card
・Passport
・Permit to Engage in Activity other than that Permitted under the Status of Residence
・Reasons for changing your job
If you have changed your jobs and your period of stay is about to expire (in less than 5 months), it is recommended to renew your VISA rather than waiting to obtain the Certificate of Authorized Employment. Furthermore, depending on your new company and the job description, the examination period might be longer.
Summary
We have introduced the Certificate of Authorized Employment which is useful to have when changing jobs in Japan. It is not required but there are many advantages to having it and risks if you do not have it, especially when changing jobs. Firstly, it is important to know about it and its process. So, do think about it depending on your situation.
How can we help you!
Too much information to take in? If there is anything you need help with, do not hesitate to contact our jimomin staff!
In jimomin.work, we offer career counseling where you can discuss your problems and understand what sort of jobs you want to do.
We aim to spread awareness and give tips and information which are not taught in school or universities. Changing residence card, what is an Entry sheet, how to reserve a moving company; we cover all sorts of topics.
Not sure what kind of job you want to do in Japan? Add us on LINE and reserve a consultation
Tell us what you want to know more about via LINE as well!
