From 1 October 2026 only Dependents can work in pachinko parlours, with an individual permit and a 28-hour weekly cap

Published 1 October 2026Last checked 24 October 2026

Work statuses

The Immigration Services Agency allows only holders of Dependent status, not Students, to get an individual permission for work at amusement-hall shops such as pachinko parlours. Hours under all permissions together stay within 28 a week.

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What changed

From 1 October 2026 only Dependent holders (not students) can get an individual permission to work at amusement-hall shops such as pachinko parlours, subject to extra conditions and the same combined 28-hour weekly cap.

Students may not work in pachinko parlours and similar gaming venues.

Who it affects

Holders of Dependent status and of Student status. Dependents who want this work need an individual permit.

Key numbers

Effective date: 1 October 2026.
Hours worked under all out-of-status permissions, whether comprehensive or individual, add up to no more than 28 hours a week.
A Dependent needs comprehensive permission to work up to 28 hours per week.
For Dependents, holding several part-time jobs is allowed, but the hours of all jobs combined must not exceed 28 per week.
Work at premises running adult-entertainment businesses is barred even within the 28 hours, including by out-of-status permission.