The Residence Card (在留カード) is not only an identity document but also determines whether you are legally permitted to stay and work in Japan. In practice, many foreign workers violate regulations simply because they do not fully understand the obligations associated with this card.
1. Obligations go beyond “carrying the card”
In addition to always carrying the Residence Card, foreign residents are required to:
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Report any change of address within 14 days
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Notify authorities when changing employers or leaving a job
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Renew their residence status before it expires
Failure to comply may be considered a violation of Japan’s Immigration Control Act.
2. Real case: Absconding and its impact on residence status
A real case reported by KOKORO highlights the risks:
A technical intern working in the construction industry left his company due to harsh working conditions, low wages, and unpaid overtime. After absconding, he had to live in unstable conditions and faced the risk of losing his residence status.
During this period, without proper legal support, workers can easily fall into illegal residency, which may lead to deportation.
3. Case example: Granted special residence status through proper reporting and support
In the same case, after contacting a support organisation, the worker:
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Communicated with the Immigration Bureau
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Completed the necessary procedures
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Was granted a Special Residence Status (valid for 6 months), which was later extended
The key point: if you report your situation properly and cooperate with authorities, you may still have the opportunity to remain in Japan legally.
4. Case example: Legal change of residence status
Following this support process, the worker went on to:
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Study Japanese
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Pass the JFT-Basic examination
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Successfully switch to the “Specified Skilled Worker” visa
As a result, he was able to return to Japan and work legally instead of being forced to return home.
This clearly demonstrates that residence status can be changed, provided that the correct legal procedures are followed.
5. Key takeaways
From these real-life cases:
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Do not abscond → it can lead to loss of residence status
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If problems arise → report promptly and seek proper support
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All changes in employment or residence must be reported within the required timeframe
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Visa status can be changed if eligibility conditions are met
Misunderstanding or neglecting the rules related to the Residence Card can result in serious consequences, affecting not only your legal status but also your long-term career plans in Japan.
Advice from Sông Đà Tohoku
Sông Đà Tohoku consistently emphasises that understanding the law before going to Japan is just as important as learning the language. We provide detailed guidance on real-life situations, helping workers handle issues correctly from the outset and avoid unnecessary risks.
For more details of our study abroad and working overseas programme, please contact:
TOHOKU SONG DA JOINT STOCK COMPANY
Address: No. 4, Alley 180 Thai Thinh, Dong Da Ward, Hanoi, Vietnam
Hotline: 0989044852
Email: tohokusongda2014@gmail.com