Work in Japan
Navigate the job market and relocation process.
Working in Japan is increasingly accessible to international professionals. This path covers the main work visa routes, how to prepare your job-search documents for a Japanese context, what to expect during the hiring process, and how to set up your life after arrival.
Your key steps
What to do, in order.
Understand your visa route
The most common work visas are Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services (for office jobs), Skilled Labor, and Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) types 1 and 2. Each has different requirements for qualifications and job type.
Prepare your Japanese-style CV
Japan uses a specific resume format called 履歴書 (rirekisho). For international hires, a western-style English CV is often acceptable, but understanding expectations — photo, personal details, chronological format — is important.
Find a sponsor employer
Unlike some countries, Japan's work visas are employer-sponsored. You need a job offer from a Japanese company to apply. Platforms like LinkedIn, Wantedly, Gaijinpot Jobs, and Indeed Japan list international-friendly roles.
Apply for your work visa
Your employer typically handles the COE application on your behalf. Once received, you apply for the work visa at your local Japanese consulate. The whole process from offer to visa can take 2–4 months.
Set up your life on arrival
Register at your ward office within 14 days. Join the company's health insurance. Open a bank account. Get a phone plan. Start your Japanese lessons — even basic Japanese will significantly help your daily life and career.
Useful tools
Tools for this path.
Arrival Checklist
MVPTrack your pre-arrival and first-week tasks.
Document Checklist
Coming soonSee exactly which documents you need.
FAQ
Common questions.
Do I need to speak Japanese to work in Japan?
It depends on the role. International companies and tech startups often hire English-only speakers. Traditional Japanese companies typically require Japanese. JLPT N3 or higher opens significantly more doors.
What salary should I expect?
Average starting salaries for graduates range from ¥200,000–¥280,000/month. Experienced professionals in tech can earn ¥400,000–¥800,000+/month. Tokyo salaries are higher but so are living costs.
Can I switch jobs on a work visa?
Yes — Japan's work visas are tied to your visa category (e.g., Engineer/Specialist), not your employer. You can change jobs within the same category. You must notify immigration when you change employers.
yuzu.help provides general guidance only. Verify important details with official sources or a qualified professional.
Also explore
Move with Family
Ready to start your journey?
Create your free account to save guides, track your checklist, and come back when your plans change.