Designated Activities (No. 46 - Japanese University Graduates)

Designated Activities (No. 46) is a Japanese work status for foreign nationals who graduated from a Japanese university and hold high-level Japanese proficiency (JLPT N1 or BJT 480+). It permits employment in service, hospitality, retail, and manufacturing roles typically off-limits to standard work visas.

Stay is granted in periods from 3 months to 5 years — typically 1 year initially — and is renewable. The status counts toward Japan's 10-year permanent residency requirement. Dependents may accompany the holder and can apply for permission to work up to 28 hours/week.

This visa is ideal for international graduates of Japanese universities who want to use their language skills and degree in Japan's broader service or manufacturing economy.