Graduated in Japan? Here’s How to Stay Legally and Find a Job in 2026

Graduated from a Japanese university and still searching for a job?

You may be eligible for the Job Hunting Visa Japan, officially known as the Designated Activities visa Japan.

This visa allows international students to legally stay in Japan after graduation and continue job hunting.

If you are researching Japan visa after graduation, this guide explains everything clearly.

What Is the Job Hunting Visa in Japan?

The Job Hunting Visa falls under the Designated Activities (特定活動) category issued by the Immigration Services Agency of Japan.

It is a temporary residence status granted to international students who:

Graduate from a recognized Japanese university, graduate school, junior college, or vocational school
Wish to continue job hunting in Japan

It is not a work visa, but a legal extension to stay while seeking employment.

You may qualify if:

Many students search for:

This visa is the legal solution.

Maximum stay: 1 year

This gives graduates time to secure employment and later apply for a Japan work visa after graduation.

Yes.

You must apply for permission (資格外活動許可).Once approved, you can work up to 28 hours per week.

Typical requirements for the Designated Activities visa Japan include:

Always apply before your Student visa expires.

Once you receive an offer:

Apply for Change of Status of Residence.
Switch to an appropriate work visa (for example, Engineer / Specialist in Humanities / International Services).

This is the final step in the Japan visa after graduation process.