Getting a part-time work permit in Japan

The student life may be all about frugal living, but did you know you can actually work part-time while on a student visa in Japan? Read on to find out how you can get a part-time work permit in Japan and learn what benefits you’ll get if do arubaito (“part time job” in Japanese).

How do I apply for a part-time work permit?

You can apply for a Japanese part-time work permit at any of the main airports of Japan if you have just arrived in the country with a student visa. For students who come through Go! Go! Nihon, we will send you a form which you can fill out and hand over to immigration when they check your passport upon arrival. You will receive your Zairyū Card and a stamp on your passport which will allow you to work part-time.

How many hours can I work?

If you are a Japanese language school student with a part-time work permit, you are allowed to work up to 28 hours a week. During a longer school break (summer break, for example), you can work up to 8 hours a day.

Benefits of working part-time in Japan as a student

As well as earning extra pocket money, working part-time in Japan as a student has the extra benefit of helping you practice your Japanese. You will also get work experience in Japan, which can help you in the future if you plan to get a full-time job in Japan once you have finished studying. 

Additionally, you will get to know new people and make new friends!

What type of jobs can I do?

The typical jobs you can do with a Japanese part-time work permit include wait staff in restaurants, shop assistants in shops or convenience stores, office jobs, teaching, translating, etc. Native English speakers can find jobs teaching or tutoring English and if you speak other languages, you can work in translation or industries connected with your home country.

Note that there are certain jobs you are not allowed to do while on a part-time work permit in Japan. This includes jobs in the adult entertainment industry such as working in night clubs, girls bars, pachinko parlors, etc. If you get caught working these types of jobs, you could be deported immediately back to your country or face an expensive fine. 

How much can I earn per hour?

It depends on the job, but the average hourly pay is 1000 yen. Teaching jobs can offer a higher rate.

Do I need to know Japanese to start working part-time?

Again, this depends on the job. If you have to deal with Japanese customers, then conversational Japanese skills, or around upper beginner or pre-intermediate level, will be required. If dealing with foreign customers, you may be able to get away with just speaking English or your native language.

There are jobs where Japanese is not required at all, including dishwashing and jobs at warehouses and factories.

What if I don’t want to work regularly and just make some money easily?

You can try to work in the talent industry as a model or audience on TV shows. These jobs can pay well and you may be able to fit the production schedule around your school hours.

Where do I get started? 

Take a look at our Jobs in Japan page where we regularly post job offers for our students!

Coming to Japan on a student visa doesn’t mean you need to worry about money. With a part-time work permit in Japan, you’ll be able to work while studying, make some extra money and practice your Japanese language skills all at the same time.