Uber Eats Japan Background Check: A Guide for Foreigners

Delivering for Uber Eats in Japan offers a flexible way to earn money, but for foreign nationals, the registration process involves specific requirements, most notably the background check and visa verification. This guide breaks down everything you need to know to navigate the process smoothly.

Understanding the Uber Eats Delivery Partner Role in Japan

Before diving into the requirements, it’s essential to understand the nature of the work. When you deliver for Uber Eats, you are not an employee. You are an independent contractor, or what is referred to in Japan as a “sole proprietor” (個人事業主, kojin jigyō nushi). This distinction is critical because it impacts visa eligibility. You are responsible for your own taxes, insurance, and work-related expenses.

As an independent contractor, you have the flexibility to set your own schedule and work when you want. This is a great alternative to traditional part-time jobs with fixed hours.

Are You Eligible? Key Requirements for Foreign Nationals

Meeting the eligibility criteria is the first and most important step. The requirements for foreign nationals are stricter than for Japanese citizens, primarily concerning your status of residence.

Age and General Requirements

• You must be at least 18 years old.
• You must have basic Japanese communication skills.
• Government employees who are prohibited from holding a second job, such as Self-Defense Forces Personnel, cannot register.

Crucial Visa and Residence Status Requirements

This is the most critical part of the application for foreigners. Your eligibility depends entirely on your visa type. According to Uber Eats Japan’s official policy, only individuals with a status of residence that permits unrestricted work as an independent contractor can sign up.

Eligible Statuses of Residence for New Sign-ups:

• Permanent Resident (永住者)
• Special Permanent Resident (特別永住者)
• Spouse or Child of a Japanese National (日本人の配偶者等)
• Spouse or Child of a Permanent Resident (永住者の配偶者等)
• Long-term Resident (定住者)
• Designated Activities (Working Holiday) (特定活動)

Important Note on Ineligible Visas: As of September 2021, Uber Eats Japan suspended new registrations for foreign students and others with work-hour restrictions. This means the following statuses are generally not eligible for new sign-ups:

• Student Visa (留学): Not eligible for new registrations.
• Designated Activities (with a 28-hour work limit): Not eligible. Freelance work like Uber Eats falls outside the scope of the “Permission to Engage in Activity Other than that Permitted” for students.
• Refugee Applicants: Cannot sign up as they are only permitted to work under a direct employment contract.

This policy was implemented to prevent individuals from working beyond the hours permitted by their visas. Always check the latest requirements on the official Uber Eats website as policies can change.

The Step-by-Step Registration and Background Check Process

The registration process is done online and through the app, but for foreigners, it includes a mandatory in-person step.

Step 1: Initial Account Setup and Document Upload

1. Download the Uber Driver app and create an account.
2. Enter your personal information (name, email, phone number, city). Your name must match your passport exactly.
3. Select your delivery method (bicycle, scooter, or car).
4. Upload photos of all the required documents (see checklist below).

Uber will review your documents, which can take up to 72 hours.

Step 2: The Background Check with Sterling

Once your initial documents are approved, the background check begins. This is a crucial step that verifies your criminal history.

• Initiation: Uber will send you an email with a unique link to start your background check with their third-party partner, Sterling. This can take up to 48 hours after your documents are approved.
• Process: You will need to fill out a form on Sterling’s portal and submit your details.
• Duration: The background check process can take a significant amount of time. Be prepared to wait at least two weeks for it to be completed.

Step 3: The Mandatory Compliance Center Visit

This step is required for all foreign nationals, including permanent residents. Japanese nationals are exempt from this visit.

• Purpose: To physically verify your identity and work eligibility.
• Procedure: After submitting your documents online, you must visit an Uber Eats Compliance Center.
• What to Bring: You must bring your original Passport and Residence Card (Zairyu Card) for the physical check.

After your background check is clear and your in-person verification is complete, you’ll need to pass a short road safety quiz. Once you accept the terms and conditions, your account will be activated, and you can start delivering.

Required Documents Checklist for Foreign Applicants

Having your documents ready will speed up the process. Ensure all photos are clear, with all four corners of the document visible and no glare.

Universal Documents

• Profile Photo: A clear, forward-facing photo of yourself. No hats or sunglasses.
• Bank Account Information: A cash card or bank book to register for payments.

Identity and Work Permit Documents (by Visa Type)

You will need to upload specific combinations of documents based on your residence status. Typically, you’ll need to upload multiple photos as a single image file.

• For Permanent Residents, Long-term Residents, Spouse/Child of Japanese National, Spouse/Child of Permanent Resident:
  • Proof of Identity: Front of Residence Card + Passport photo page (or My Number Card/Driver’s License).
  • Proof of Work Permit: Back of Residence Card.
• For Special Permanent Residents:
  • Proof of Identity: Front of Special Permanent Residence Certificate.
  • Proof of Work Permit: Back of Special Permanent Residence Certificate.
• For Designated Activities (Working Holiday):
  • Proof of Identity: Front of Residence Card + Passport photo page.
  • Proof of Work Permit: Back of Residence Card + Designation Certificate (the paper attached to your passport).

Vehicle-Specific Documents (If Applicable)

If you plan to deliver by car or motorized scooter/motorbike, you’ll need additional documents:

• Driver’s License (運転免許証)
• Automobile Liability Insurance Certificate (自動車損害賠償責任保険証明書)
• Photo of your License Plate

Important: For vehicles over 125cc (including kei-cars), you must have a commercial license plate (black plate with yellow characters). This requires registering your vehicle for business use (“light motor truck transportation business”), a separate process done at the MLIT office.

Common Questions and Key Considerations

How long does the entire process take?

The total time can vary, but it’s best to be patient. The background check is often the longest part of the process. Here is a general estimate:

On average, expect the full process to take 3 to 4 weeks from start to finish.

Why is my visa type not accepted?

Japanese immigration law distinguishes between different types of work. Delivery roles are generally classified as “unskilled labor.” Work visas like Engineer/Specialist in Humanities are issued for specific, skilled professions. Student visas come with strict limitations on work type and hours to ensure studies remain the primary focus. As Uber Eats partners are independent contractors, the work falls outside the scope of what is permitted for many visa categories. This is a matter of Japanese immigration policy rather than a decision by Uber alone.

Ready to Start? Sign Up and Begin Your Journey

If you meet the visa and background requirements, becoming an Uber Eats delivery partner can be a rewarding way to earn money with flexibility. The key is to ensure your documents are in order and to be patient during the background check process.

Ready to take the first step? Use the link below to start your registration process.