Navigating the Visa Transition from Dispatch ALT to Direct-Hire

So, you’ve landed a coveted direct-hire position at a private school? Congratulations! This is a fantastic career move that often brings greater stability, better benefits, and a more integrated school community experience.

However, this exciting step forward comes with a crucial administrative task: managing your visa status change. It’s a process that can feel daunting, but with careful planning, it’s entirely manageable.

Understanding Your Visa Timeline

Your situation is actually quite common and has a clear logical path. Your dispatch company is currently renewing your visa, which will grant you an Instructor visa until 2027.

This is excellent news. It means you have a valid status of residence throughout your current contract, which runs until the end of March.

The key point to remember is that your visa is not technically tied to your dispatch company. It is sponsored by them, but it is your status of residence granted by the Japanese government.

The “Status of Residence” Change

When you move from a dispatch company to a private school, you are changing employers. Even though you are staying in the same profession, this requires a formal application to change your “sponsoring organization.”

This process is not a visa renewal; it is an application for Permission to Engage in an Activity Other Than That Permitted by the Status of Residence Previously Granted.

• You are moving from one “Instructor” visa sponsor to another.
• The type of visa (Instructor) remains the same.
• You are simply notifying immigration of your new employer.

Your Step-by-Step Action Plan

1. Communicate Professionally with Your Dispatch Company

Wait until your new contract with the private school is officially signed and in your hands. Once it’s secure, provide your current employer with a standard letter of resignation, adhering to the notice period outlined in your contract. You are not obligated to disclose your new employer’s details.

2. Collaborate with Your New School

This is the most important partnership in this process. The private school’s administration should have experience with this. Proactively ask them:

• “What documents do you need from me to begin the visa sponsorship change?”
• “What is your preferred timeline for submitting the application to immigration?”

3. Gather Your Documents

Your new school will likely provide you with a checklist. Commonly required documents include:

• Application for Permission to Engage in Activity Other Than That Permitted (the specific immigration form).
• Your Residence Card (Zairyu Card).
• Your new, signed contract from the private school.
• Documents proving the private school’s legitimacy (they usually provide this).
• A letter stating the reason for the change (your new school may help draft this).

4. Timing is Everything

You can submit this application to Immigration Services before your official start date at the new school. It is highly recommended to do this as early as possible. Aim to submit the application in February or early March, ensuring the process is complete by your April start date.

A Final Word of Encouragement

While the paperwork seems complex, this is a standard procedure. Your new school is your greatest ally. By communicating clearly with them and submitting your application well in advance, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free transition into your new, rewarding role. Focus on the exciting opportunity ahead!