Blog

#81

Side Hustles You Can Do Legally as a Foreign Worker in Japan

by Pritz Mirafuentes

Living in Japan as a foreign worker can be both exciting and financially demanding. Whether you're saving up, supporting family back home, or just looking to make the most of your time here, a side hustle can be a great way to earn extra income. But before diving in, it's important to know what's legal under Japanese immigration law. Here's a guide to side hustles you can do legally as a foreign worker in Japan.

First Things First : Know Your Visa Status

Most foreign workers in Japan are under work-specific visas (like Engineer, Instructor, Specified Skilled Worker, etc.). These allow you to work only in the field specified. If you want to take on extra work outside your visa scope, you must apply for a permit called :

“Permission to Engage in Activity Other Than That Permitted under the Status of Residence Previously Granted” (資格外活動許可 / shikakugai katsudō kyoka).

Once approved, you can work up to 28 hours per week in a side job not covered by your main visa.

Legal Side Hustles in Japan for Foreign Workers

Here are side hustles you can legally consider, especially with proper permission :

1. English Tutoring or Language Teaching

What it is : Private one-on-one lessons or small group teaching.
Why it's popular : High demand for native or fluent English speakers.
How to start : Use platforms like HelloSensei, EigoPass, or Cafetalk.
Income range : ¥2,000–¥4,000/hour.

Note : You’ll need permission if this is outside your main job description.

2. Freelance Content Creation

Examples : Blogging, vlogging, YouTube, TikTok, podcasting, writing articles.
What’s legal : You can earn ad revenue or sponsorships, as long as you aren’t being employed by a company in Japan directly unless permitted by your visa.
How to start : Focus on a niche (travel, culture, food, OFW life, etc.).
Tips : Set up monetization properly (e.g., Google AdSense, affiliate marketing).

3. Online Selling / Reselling

Platforms : Mercari, Rakuten, Yahoo Auctions, Shopee (for PH-based), or even Facebook Marketplace.
What to sell : Thrifted items, souvenirs, secondhand goods, Filipino snacks or products.
What to know : Keep it small-scale; large-scale import/export may require a business license.

4. Handmade Crafts or Baked Goods

Where to sell : Instagram, pop-up events, Filipino community groups, or Etsy.
Examples : Cookies, crochet, candles, accessories, DIY crafts.
Legality tip : Keep it personal-scale. If you grow big, consider registering as a sole proprietor (kojin jigyō).

5. Photography or Videography

Events : Birthdays, Filipino events, pre-nuptials, concerts, etc.
Gear needed : A decent camera, editing tools, and a portfolio.
Promotion : Word of mouth, Facebook groups, or local community pages.

6. Translation / Interpretation

Languages : English-Japanese, Tagalog-Japanese, or other combinations.
Where to find gigs : Freelance platforms like Upwork or local expat communities.
Requirement : Intermediate to fluent Japanese skill.

7. Remote Freelancing (Outside Japan)

If you're working with clients outside Japan, such as in the Philippines or the U.S., you may be able to do remote freelance work without violating your visa, as long as:

You're not employed by a Japanese company.
The work is not affecting your main job or overstaying time limits.

Examples :

Virtual Assistant
Graphic Design
Social Media Management
Copywriting

"Still, it’s wise to confirm with your immigration office or a legal advisor."

What You Can’t Do Without Special Permission

Hostess/bar work (prohibited under many visas).
Work in pachinko parlors, adult entertainment, or certain service industries.
Full-time jobs unrelated to your visa.

Earning cash “under the table” (illegal and could get you deported).

Final Tips

Keep your side hustle honest and transparent.
Don’t let it interfere with your main job or visa conditions.
Join Filipino-Japanese communities for collaboration and support.
Always double-check legalities with the Immigration Bureau if unsure.

Let’s Hustle-But Legally!

Side hustles in Japan are possible—and legal—when done right. Whether you’re creative, a teacher, or a reseller, there are many opportunities to earn extra while staying compliant. Just make sure your passion project doesn’t land you in trouble. Your future self (and visa status) will thank you!

Posted : 08 July 2025