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Visa & labor
issues handled
together -
Interpretation
and native-language
support available -
Changing jobs in Japan?
We’ll guide you
through every step.
If you are a foreign
worker in Japan
and are experiencing any
of the issues below,
please don’t hesitate to
contact our office for
support.
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“I was fired before receiving my full salary...”
- Unpaid wages? Don't wait.
If your employer hasn't paid your full salary, you may lose your right to claim it if too much time passes. Our office helps you take quick and effective legal steps to protect your rightful earnings.
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“I was unfairly dismissed, and now I’m worried about my visa...”
- Unlawful dismissal can affect your visa.
A sudden dismissal may put your residency status or visa renewal at risk. Early legal action and proper documentation can help you stay in Japan legally and fight for your rights.
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“I’ve worked overtime, but
I haven’t been paid for it...” - Every minute of overtime matters.
To claim unpaid overtime, you need to prove your working hours. Even if there's no timecard, we help gather evidence from LINE messages, location data, or PC logs to support your case.
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“I’m not sure
what will happen to my visa...” - Stay legal. Stay safe.
Termination or expired contracts can lead to unauthorized stay if not handled properly. We offer legal support for changing or extending your visa, giving you peace of mind during uncertain times.
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What Is the Foreign Worker Legal Support Service?
This is our firm’s unique legal support package designed to assist foreign workers in Japan who are facing issues such as unpaid wages, unfair dismissal, and concerns related to visa status, renewal, or change of residence status. We offer comprehensive, one-stop assistance that combines labor law expertise with immigration support.
- Legal claims for unpaid wages, overtime pay, and dismissal notice compensation
- Support with unlawful dismissal challenges and labor tribunal applications
- Legal advice on how labor disputes may affect your visa and residency status
- Interpretation and translation in your native language (English, Vietnamese, Chinese, etc.)
- Assistance with organizing evidence and preparing written statements
- Optional legal representation for labor tribunal or court proceedings
Contact us from here
Our Key Strengths in
Supporting Foreign
Workers
in Japan
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One-stop legal service for
unpaid wages, dismissal, and visa issues - Our firm offers comprehensive support foreign workers in Japan facing complex problems such as unpaid wages, unfair dismissal, and concerns over visa status. Our attorneys specializing in labor law work closely with administrative scriveners and multilingual staff to provide unified support—from consultation and negotiation to legal filings and visa changes. There's no need to visit multiple offices—everything is handled in one place.
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Multilingual support for peace of mind
- Language barriers can make legal problems even more stressful for foreign workers. At our office, we offer multilingual support in English, Vietnamese, Chinese, and other languages. You can receive explanations in your native language, and we provide translation of legal documents and evidence. Whether it's a labor tribunal or an immigration procedure, we ensure accurate and compassionate communication throughout the process.
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Strong support even with
limited evidence - Many foreign workers lack formal contracts or time records. We are experienced in using alternative forms of evidence such as LINE chats, photos, call logs, GPS data, and bank transfer records. Even with limited documentation, we help build a consistent and logical case to present at tribunals or in court. Our team supports the organization and preparation of evidence to maximize your legal advantage.
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Fast and careful response
- In labor and visa-related disputes, delays can make the situation worse—or even cause the loss of legal residency. We act quickly from the first consultation to gather facts, assess evidence, and plan your strategy. At the same time, we take the time to understand your personal circumstances and concerns, aiming to be a dependable partner in protecting your life and rights in Japan.
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Strategic approach with
tribunal and litigation in mind - From the initial consultation, we consider whether early settlement via labor tribunal or full litigation is best suited to your case. We tailor our legal strategy based on your goals, available evidence, and the employer’s response. Our team has extensive experience in negotiating favorable settlements, and we possess the legal and practical skills needed to pursue the best possible outcome.
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Our Services for Supporting Foreign Workers
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Support for Unpaid Wage
Claims -
We assist foreign workers in claiming unpaid wages, overtime pay, dismissal notice compensation, and retirement allowances. Even if you don’t have an employment contract or timecards, we help build your case using LINE messages, bank records, smartphone data, and more. Our support includes legal claim preparation, labor tribunal filings, and litigation if necessary.
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Unlawful Dismissal
Response -
Sudden or unfair termination without proper procedure may be considered unlawful. We support clients in reviewing the dismissal reasons, negotiating with the employer, and filing for a labor tribunal or court action. We also provide guidance on visa-related impacts and help explore options for continuing legal residence in Japan.
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Visa Risk Management
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Unlawful dismissal or contract termination may put your residency status at risk. Our immigration law specialists assess your situation and assist with visa extension or change procedures. We also support applications for spouse visas, designated activity visas, and other legal alternatives where appropriate.
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Evidence & Document
Preparation Support -
Legal claims require strong supporting documents and a clear timeline. We assist in organizing nontraditional evidence such as chat logs, phone records, shift notes, and more. We also help prepare written statements, evidence lists, and wage calculation charts—even if you are filing the case on your own.
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Multilingual Interpretation
& Translation -
Language barriers can make legal procedures more stressful. We offer interpretation and document translation in English, Vietnamese, Chinese, and more to ensure clear communication. You’ll receive legal explanations in your native language., providing confidence and clarity throughout the process
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Settlement &
Negotiation Support -
Without legal support, workers may accept unfair settlements. Our attorneys act as your legal representative, negotiate directly with employers, and aim to reach fair financial and legal terms. If settlement fails, we are prepared to escalate to labor tribunal or court proceedings.
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Job Change & Visa Support
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Changing jobs in Japan often requires updating your visa. We help review your new employment conditions, assess visa eligibility, and prepare for residency change or renewal applications. We ensure that your transition to a new workplace is fully legal and stress-free, from both labor and immigration perspectives.
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Comparison with Other Offices
Scrivener Office
Support Fees for Foreign Workers in Japan
| Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| Chat & Email Consultation | Free |
| Initial Fee (Labor + Visa Issues) | ¥55,000 (tax included) |
| Success Fee | Quoted after consultation |
| Interpretation & Translation | Actual cost (charged separately if needed) |
Support Team Overview
Profile
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Tomohiro OnoManaging Attorney at
First & TandemSprint LPCMember of the
TOKYO BAR Association - Attorney Tomohiro Ono is an experienced legal professional with a strong track record in resolving complex legal issues faced by foreign workers in Japan—particularly cases involving unpaid wages, unfair dismissal, and visa-related risks. With a focus on advocating for workers who often lack sufficient evidence, he is skilled in building strong legal arguments and negotiations, even in challenging circumstances.
He is known for his careful and culturally sensitive approach, taking into account language and cultural barriers. Leading a multilingual support team that includes interpreters and translators, he provides comprehensive assistance, including procedures with the Immigration Bureau for visa maintenance and status changes. Attorney Ono is a true ally for foreigners who wish to work and live in Japan with peace of mind.
Senior Associate
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KADOWAKI,
Fumitaka -
KIMURA,
Mami -
YANAGIDA,
Sumiko -
SUGENOYA,
Motohide -
SUZUKI,
Kazuko -
YAMAGUCHI,
Atsuyo -
ISHIDA,
Midori -
TAOKA,
Shunsuke -
KANEKO,
Taeko
Contact us from here
Frequently Asked Questions about Our Foreign Worker Support Service
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Is a free consultation available?
Yes, we offer free consultations via email and chat.
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Can I handle my visa on my own?
While it is technically possible, cases involving both labor issues and visa complications often require professional assistance to avoid legal risks.
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Can I consult about changing my visa status as well?
Absolutely. We offer integrated support for both labor issues and visa modifications.
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Can I consult with you even if I live far away?
Yes, of course. You are welcome to consult with us remotely via email or chat, no matter your location.
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My employer is sponsoring my visa. If I claim unpaid
wages or overtime, will it make it hard to stay at work or affect my visa?It’s natural to feel that concern. However, claiming unpaid wages or overtime is a legal right, and doing so does not immediately result in visa cancellation or legal problems.
Your visa is granted based on your own work activity, not the will of your employer. Your employer cannot unilaterally revoke your visa.
Even if you leave your current job, you can still maintain your visa status by changing employers. Our office also provides support for job transitions, including contract review, visa updates, and ensuring compliance with immigration regulations so that you can continue working legally and safely in Japan.
Consultation Process
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1
Submit your inquiry via the contact form
Available on both weekdays and weekends.
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2
Free consultation via email or chat
We will listen to your situation and provide tailored suggestions.
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3
Agreement and explanation of fees
If you are satisfied with our proposal, we will proceed with the contract and explain the costs involved.
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4
Start of case preparation
We begin organizing your evidence, analyzing visa-related risks, and preparing necessary documents.
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5
Negotiation with the company & visa application support
We handle legal negotiations with your employer and provide assistance with visa applications.
6Post-resolution follow-up
If needed, we also support job changes or other follow-up actions after the case is resolved.
Contact Form