To preface: I’m on a spouse visa without restrictions to work. I currently work as a local government worker.
Lately I’ve been wanting to do something on the side to help generate extra income for my family. I power washed in the past in my home country and live in a neighborhood where I think it could do alright for a couple jobs a month.
In my current contract, it’s pretty clear that for-profit side work is generally not allowed but I’d like advice as to if it is explicitly prohibited.
From contract: “職務に専念するものとし、営利企業を営むことを目的とする会社の役員を兼ね、自ら営利企業を営み、又は給料を得て行う事業若しくは事務に従事しないように努めなければならない。”
Specifically the wording “しないように努めなければならない” seems somewhat soft to me. I was thinking to submit a 副業・兼業届出書, which is a document internally available to us to download from the HR department, and submit it to my department head, but I want to avoid embarrassing myself or causing unnecessary tension if it’s clear to others here that such a request would be justly refused.
Recently (as of July 2025), a new national guideline states that public servants may engage in side work should permission be provided. I’m hoping this new guideline would support my case, but you guys know how quickly “new” rules take effect in Japan.
Thank you all!
by OldTaco77