In a previous post, we discussed reasons for the cancellation of a residence status, but not engaging in activities that are the basis of the residence status for a certain period of time can also be grounds for cancellation of the residence status. Depending on the residence status, if the period of non-performance of activities exceeds a certain standard, it will be subject to cancellation. Below, we will explain the specific number of days and details for several representative residence statuses when basic activities are not being performed.
1.Work-related visa status (Engineer, Specialist in Humanities, International Services, etc.)
If a foreigner with a work-related visa does not carry out the activities (work) required by that visa, the visa may be revoked after a certain period of time.
Specific days:
- More than 3 months: In the case of employment-related visas, if you do not engage in work activities for more than 3 months, it is often grounds for cancellation of the visa. This period applies when the foreigner is not engaged in the job or when they change jobs and cannot find a new job.
2.Student (International Students)
Foreigners with student visas are generally required to continue their studies. If you do not study or attend school for a certain period of time, your visa may be revoked.
Specific days:
- More than 6 months: If a foreigner with a student visa does not continue their studies for more than 6 months (e.g. taking a leave of absence, dropping out, etc.), their visa may be revoked if their activities cannot be confirmed. If they do not continue their studies without a valid reason, their visa may be revoked if they exceed this period.
3.Specified Skilled Worker
If a foreign national with specific skills does not perform the specific work required by his or her residence status, the status may be revoked after a certain period of time.
Specific Days
- More than 3 months: If a specified skilled worker does not perform his/her duties for more than 3 months, this is grounds for the revocation of his/her residence status. This is especially true in cases where the worker loses his/her job or is unable to find a new job.
4.Dependent
If a foreign national with a family member status of residence does not achieve the purpose of his or her stay in Japan (for example, if the foreign national continues to stay in Japan after the Japanese spouse quits his or her job) or does not meet the conditions necessary for that stay, the status of residence may be revoked.
Specific Days
More than 6 months: In this case, the residence status may be revoked if the foreign spouse is not seen to be in Japan for more than 6 months, especially if the spouse is unemployed or not employed.
5.Special permanent resident
If a foreign national with special permanent resident status does not carry out any activities in Japan for an extended period of time, or if he or she moves his or her base of operations out of Japan, the status of residence may be revoked.
Specific Days
More than one year: To maintain your special permanent resident status, you must have an address in Japan and continue to base your life in Japan. If you do not live in Japan for more than one year, your status may be revoked.
6.Temporary suspension of activities
For example, if a foreigner is temporarily unable to carry out their activities due to illness or family circumstances, and the situation continues, their status of residence may be revoked if it is determined that they will not be able to resume their activities.
Specific Days
More than 6 months: If you are unable to resume your activities, a period of inactivity of 6 months or more is often grounds for the revocation of your visa. However, exceptions may be made for reasons such as illness or family circumstances, with proper proof.
Summary
- For work-related visas, failure to carry out activities for three months or more is grounds for cancellation.
- For student visas, failure to carry out studies for six months or more is grounds for cancellation.
- For specified skilled worker visas, failure to perform work for three months or more is grounds for cancellation.
- For dependent visas, failure to carry out activities for six months or more is grounds for cancellation.
- Special permanent resident visas may be cancelled if you have not lived in Japan for more than one year.
For each status of residence, if the period during which the basic activities are not performed exceeds the number of days listed above, the status will be cancelled. If there is a valid reason or special circumstances, cancellation may be avoided, but in principle, cancellation will be made if such criteria are exceeded.