Status of Residence “Instructor” in Japan

Understanding the Status of Residence “Instructor”:

The Status of Residence “Instructor” applies to individuals engaged in language education and other educational activities at elementary schools, junior high schools, high schools, secondary schools, special-needs schools, advanced vocational schools, and miscellaneous schools. As of the end of 2022, there were approximately 13,400 foreign nationals with the Status of Residence “Instructor,” which is similar in number to the Status of Residence “Highly Skilled Professional (i)(b) ” and “Intra-company Transferee.”

*It is important to note that unlike universities where instructors focus on theoretical studies, advanced vocational schools, known as “Senshu Gakko,” have curricula that emphasize the acquisition of specialized knowledge and skills applicable to the job market. They are typically categorized into specialized courses, advanced courses, and general courses. Generally, Senshu Gakko/ advanced vocational schools where there are specialized courses are called “Senmon Gakko.”

Relationship with other Statuses of Residence:

a. Relevance to Status of Residence “Engineer/Specialist in humanities/International services”:

Even language teachers, if they engage in activities as language instructors under contract with general companies such as English language schools, generally fall under the category of Status of Residence ” Engineer/Specialist in humanities/International services.” Kindergartens, not being educational institutions listed within the scope of “Instructor,” are not eligible for the Status of Residence “Instructor” and are typically covered by the Status of Residence ” Engineer/Specialist in humanities/International services.” If a teacher from one of the aforementioned educational institutions (elementary school to miscellaneous school) is dispatched to a general company to conduct educational activities under the direction of the educational institution, it is considered part of the Status of Residence “Instructor.”

Key Considerations to Note:

Categories and Required Documents:
Currently, there are three categories within the Status of Residence “Instructor.” Part-time employees fall under Category 3 and are required to submit various documents, including the organization’s most recent fiscal year’s financial statements, when applying for a Certificate of Eligibility. On the other hand, full-time employees who belong to elementary schools, junior high schools, high schools, secondary schools, or special-needs schools are classified as Category 1, while those belonging to other educational institutions such as advanced vocational schools or miscellaneous schools are classified as Category 2. Generally, Category 1 require most simplified documentation and there is no need to submit documents clarifying its business activities.