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Working in Japan for International Students: Part-Time Jobs and Career Opportunities
Many international students studying in Japan pursue work opportunities, including part-time work during their studies and full-time careers after graduation. This article provides essential information on working in Japan for international students, including eligibility, finding part-time employment, visa requirements, and salary considerations.
This guide will help you navigate part-time jobs and post-graduation work options in Japan.
In this article, you will discover:
- How part-time employment can supplement your living expenses and tuition fees while studying abroad in Japan.
- To avoid financial difficulties, you should budget your earnings wisely.
- You can explore opportunities to apply for work visas and remain in Japan after graduation.
- Effective job search strategies, such as networking and attending job fairs, can assist you in finding full-time employment.
- Common career paths after completing your Japan study abroad program include language teaching, programming, design, and translation.
Continue reading to ensure you don’t miss this important information.
Part-time employment on student visa
Working Conditions and Eligibility for Part-Time Employment for International Students on Student Visas
International students in Japan can work part-time while pursuing their studies, if they meet specific eligibility requirements.
Your student visa allows you to work up to 28 hours per week during academic terms. Up to 40 hours per week during extended school breaks.
This flexibility supports you financially, provides valuable work experience, and improves your Japanese language skills.
You can explore part-time jobs in areas such as:
- Teaching
- Hospitality
- Restaurants
- Tutoring
- Translations
- Retail
DID YOU KNOW?
Studying should remain your top priority. Ignoring visa regulations, such as exceeding work hours, can put your residency status at risk. Always follow the rules to protect your stay in Japan.
What are the other restrictions on working part-time with a Japanese student visa?
Working conditions in Japan for international students are designed to balance work and study effectively. International students cannot work in adult industries, such as:
- Bars (restaurants which serve alcohol can be okay)
- Hostess bars or host clubs
- Video game arcades
- Pachinko parlors
- Love hotels
- Adult goods or video stores
- Massage parlors
Disobeying these regulations can result in immediate deportation or a substantial fine.
DID YOU KNOW?
Understanding these guidelines and planning effectively will help you make the most of your time in Japan while complying with Japanese student visa regulations.
Can you do freelance work in Japan while studying on a student visa?
Yes, you can do freelance work in Japan while on a student visa!
- Freelancing or remote work is allowed with a Japanese student visa, if it does not exceed 28 hours per week or interfere with your studies.
- For clients outside of Japan, it is important to confirm what is allowed with your embassy and understand your tax obligations in your home country and Japan.
- When working with clients in Japan, you must file an annual tax return and may need assistance with the process if you are not fluent in Japanese.
Tax regulations vary based on the duration of your residence in Japan and any tax treaties between Japan and your home country, so consulting with a qualified accountant or lawyer is strongly recommended.
Watch: A student story about working and studying in Japan
Have you ever wondered what it’s like to work and study in Japan? Watch Andrea, an Italian student at the Intercultural Institute of Japan, as he juggles his studies with a part-time chef job at Pascucci. Get a glimpse into his daily life, workload, and how he landed the job. This could be you if you decide to study with us in Japan!
Applying for a work permit
Where to Apply for a Part-Time Work Permit in Japan and What are the Requirements?
Now that you are aware of the ability to work in Japan with a student visa and its limitations, how do you apply for a part-time work permit?
1. Applying at the airport
If you’ve just arrived in Japan with a student visa, you can apply for a Japanese part-time work permit at any major airport by presenting the completed form called “Application for Permission to Engage in Activity Other than that Permitted Under the Status of Residence Previously Granted”.
2. Applying at the Immigration Office
After arriving in japan, take the completed form to your local immigration office. This can take longer to process depending on how busy the immigration office is.
It is recommended that you apply for the work permit at the airport upon arrival, even if you are unsure whether you intend to work.
Go! Go! Nihon students will be provided with the form to complete and present to immigration when their passports are checked upon arrival.”
Once the application is processed, you will receive your Residence Card (Zairyu Card) and a stamp in your passport, which grants permission to work part-time.
Where to find part-time work
Where Can International Students Find Part-Time Work in Japan?
You have several ways to find a part-time job opportunities in Japan.
These methods, ranging from online resources to community support, can assist students in securing part-time work and preparing for future careers.
- Jobs in Japan Facebook Page: A dedicated page featuring job opportunities, including teaching English, retail roles, and openings within Go! Go! Nihon teams.
- Job Fairs and Seminars: Attend virtual or in-person events hosted by companies recruiting in Japan, with updates shared on official platforms.
- Newsletters: Sign up for Go! Go! Nihon’s email updates on job opportunities and upcoming events for students and graduates.
- Go! Go! Nihon Student Community: A private Facebook group for current and former students to access job listings, advice, and career resources.
- Job Support from Schools: Many schools provide job boards with part-time opportunities and courses on resume preparation, interviews, and business Japanese.
How much can you earn
How Much Can You Earn as a Student Worker in Japan? Is It Enough to Cover Your Tuition Fees?
As of 2024, the average minimum wage in Japan is 1,054 yen per hour. While this can vary by job and location, it is a good estimate of potential earnings.
Unfortunately, part-time work alone isn’t enough to cover your full tuition and living expenses in Japan. Consider it as a supplemental income to assist with daily costs such as food or transportation.
For the first three to six months, you should focus on familiarizing yourself with school life and improving your Japanese language skills. Also, some schools may limit your work options during this period. Prioritizing your studies will lead to improved opportunities in the future.
What Level of Japanese Do You Need if You Want to Work Part-Time in Japan?
If you’re looking for a part-time work in Japan on a student visa, language requirements will depend on the type of job you choose.
For roles in retail, restaurants, or hospitality that involve interacting with Japanese customers, you’ll typically need basic to intermediate Japanese (JLPT N4 or N3). Even if you’re not fluent, showing a willingness to learn and being polite can make a strong impression.
Jobs like teaching English or working in international environments are great options, as they often require little or no Japanese.
We recommend reading our blog article ‘Finding a Career: 5 Jobs in Japan with No Japanese Skills Required‘ for more details.
DID YOU KNOW?
Strong Japanese language skills will lead to a successful and fulfilling work experience in Japan.
Challenges applying for part-time jobs
What Challenges Might You Face Working in Japan?
Foreign students in Japan may face challenges when landing a part-time job. Here’s the list of challenges you may find:
- Language barriers
- Demanding Japanese work culture
- Visa restrictions
- Job market competition among foreign students
- Limited industry options
- Preference for native speakers
- Lack of networking opportunities
- Balancing work and studies
- Understanding legal and tax obligations
- Geographic location
- Job hunting process know as “Shukatsu”
Finding a part-time job in Japan as an international student can be challenging, especially if you are still learning Japanese. Many roles require at least conversational Japanese (JLPT N4 or N3).
Adapting to cultural differences like strict punctuality and formal workplace norms also takes effort. The visa restrictions and limited job opportunities in rural areas add to the hurdles, particularly when most roles are in food service, retail, or teaching English.
DID YOU KNOW?
Despite these challenges, prioritizing your studies, networking, and carefully selecting your school’s location can open up valuable opportunities to gain work experience in Japan.
Ready to live and study in Japan?
Our student coordinators are here to help you. Contact us today for free support!
Post graduation career opportunities
Are There Career Opportunities in Japan for International Students Post-Graduation?
Yes, there are a variety of career opportunities available to you, depending on your skills, interests, and Japanese language proficiency.
- If your Japanese skills are limited, you can explore opportunities in teaching English, recruitment (especially in international companies), or programming and IT-related fields, where language requirements may not be as strict.
- For those with higher Japanese proficiency, typically N2 level or above, you can find opportunities in industries like translation, business, finance, marketing, hospitality, transportation, and logistics.
To work part-time, you must apply for a work permit. With a work permit, students may work up to 28 hours per week, but studying must remain the top priority.
Ignoring visa regulations, such as exceeding work hours, can put your residency status at risk. Always follow the rules to protect your stay in Japan.
Japan's work visa system
Japan’s work visa system is flexible, with various visa types tied to industries rather than specific employers.
This means you can work in Japan in roles like:
- Engineering
- Humanities
- International services
- Teaching
- Hospitality management
- Social media
- Videography
- Producing
Japanese companies generally require a JLPT N2 level or higher for full-time employment. But with the right skills, you can find opportunities at well-known companies such as Rakuten, PayPay, Ikea Japan, and Google.
Watch: Go! Go! Nihon alumni success story in finding work in Japan after graduation
Visa transition from student to working visa
Can You Transition from a Japanese Student Visa to a Japanese Working Visa?
Now that you know it is possible to work and have a career in Japan after graduation, the next question is whether you can change your visa from a student visa to a working visa.
Yes, you can transition from a Japanese student visa to a Japanese working visa. However, applying for a working visa in Japan is more complicated than applying for a Japanese student visa because of the different set of requirements.
Different types of work visas
What are the Different Types of Work Visas in Japan?
Japan offers various types of work visas tailored to different industries and employment needs, with Japanese language proficiency often playing an important role in securing and maintaining employment.
The standard Work Visa requires a bachelor’s degree or 10 years of specialized experience in the field you wish to work in Japan. Its duration ranges from 3 months to 5 years and is tailored for:
- Professor
- Engineer
- Skilled laborer
- Specialist in humanities
Another work visa, the Highly Skilled Professional Visa, uses a points-based system for advanced roles in:
- Business
- Research
- Technical fields
This visa offers a five-year validity period and fast-tracked permanent residency.
The Working Holiday Visa is available for travelers from eligible countries aged 18-30. This is primarily intended for cultural exchange rather than long-term work.
And lastly, the Specified Skills Visa focuses on labor-shortage industries like nursing, construction, and agriculture.
There are two types of Specified Skills Visa:
- Specified Skilled Worker (i) – offers a 5-year limit
- Specified Skilled Worker (ii) – allows for longer stays and family accompaniment
Working in Japan without university degree
Can You Work in Japan Without a University Degree?
While it is technically possible to work in Japan without a university degree, it is very challenging to do so. Most jobs will require at least a bachelor’s degree to secure a work visa and employment, especially in professional roles.
For some specialized roles, they may consider 10 years of experience in the field as an alternative to a degree.
However, there are steps you can take to work in Japan without a university degree.
If you do not have a university degree but wish to work in Japan, you can explore the following options:
- Studying in a Japanese language school
- Getting your degree in Japan
- Exploring the Specified Skills Visa
1. Studying in a Japanese language school
Start by enrolling in a Japanese language school to build your proficiency in Japanese (typically JLPT N2). This is also essential for further education or work opportunities in Japan.
Some of our partner schools even offer special courses for those without 12 years of formal education. A great step toward pursuing a degree or vocational training in Japan.
2. Getting your degree in Japan
Japanese universities and vocational schools offer paths to earn qualifications that are recognized by Japanese employers.
For vocational schools, attending a language school for six months or achieving JLPT N2 level is often enough for admission.
If you prefer studying in English, universities in Japan like Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University offer degree programs taught in English alongside Japanese language learning.
3. Exploring the Specified Skills Visa
You can also explore the Specified Skills Visa, which allows you to work in Japan without a degree in 14 industries. This visa requires passing exams in Japanese language and job-specific skills or completing a three-year technical program in Japan.
DID YOU KNOW?
With dedication and effort, your dream of working in Japan is absolutely achievable. Start with language learning, education, or skill-building, and the opportunities will follow
The Japanese work culture
What You Need to Know About the Japanese Work Culture
Now that you understand your options for finding both part-time and full-time jobs in Japan, it is important to understand Japanese work culture.
This is important if you want to grow in a Japanese workplace and to build strong relationships with your colleagues.
- Being a team player is highly appreciated. Japanese companies prioritize group success over individual achievements.
- Establishing punctuality and discipline are important as well. They reflect on your professionalism and respectfulness.
- The senior-junior or senpai-kōhai relationships influence work interaction and workplace dynamics. Seniority is highly valued in Japanese workplaces.
- Working long hours is a sign of dedication to the company you are working for.
- Nomikai are after-work social gatherings. This allows you to bond in a more relaxed way with your colleagues.
- Delivering exceptional customer service is always expected from you. This is known in Japan as “Omotenashi”.
- You are expected to demonstrate precision and thoroughness in every task, completing it to the highest standard.
DID YOU KNOW?
The Japanese work culture is deeply rooted in traditions, values, and social norms. Being open-minded, respectful, and willing to learn will go a long way.
Ready to live and study in Japan?
Our student coordinators are here to help you. Contact us today for free support!
Summary
Working in Japan for International Students
As an international student in Japan, you can work part-time on a student visa. This experience of working in Japan for international students gives you the chance to support yourself financially, gain work experience, and improve your Japanese skills.
To do so, you will need to apply for a work permit. Remember that your studies should always be your priority. Failing to comply with the restrictions of your student visa work permit can have serious consequences for your residency status in Japan.
If you’re aiming for a full-time career in Japan, proper planning can help you transition from a student visa to a work visa post-graduation.
Career options range from IT and teaching to business and marketing, with different work visas tailored to various industries.
It is also important for you to understand the cultural nuances in Japanese workplaces to build strong relationships with your colleagues.
We understand that there are many things to consider when studying abroad in Japan. Do not hesitate to talk to our student coordinators for a free consultation today to receive valuable guidance that could shape your future in Japan!
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can international students work in Japan on a student visa?
Yes, international students can work part-time with a student visa, for up to 28 hours per week during school terms and 40 hours per week during extended breaks. However, a work permit is required and can be obtained at the airport or a local immigration office. - What kinds of part-time jobs are available for international students in Japan?
Popular part-time job options include teaching English, and working in restaurants, retail, hospitality, or tutoring. The range of opportunities available will depend on your Japanese language skills. - How much can I earn working part-time in Japan?
Part-time jobs typically pay around 1,055 yen per hour, though earnings vary depending on the location and job type. This income can help with daily expenses but is generally not enough to cover all tuition and living costs. - Do I need to speak Japanese to find a part-time job in Japan?
For most jobs, basic to intermediate Japanese (JLPT N4 or N3) proficiency is required, especially for roles involving customer interaction. However, some positions, such as teaching English or working in international environments, may not require Japanese proficiency. - Can I transition from a student visa to work visa in Japan?
Yes, with the right qualifications and a job offer, transitioning from a student visa to a work visa after graduation is possible. Work visa types vary by field, and many require a bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience.
Live and study abroad in Japan
Our student coordinators are here to help you. Contact us today for free support.
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