Life is short, why don’t you take a chance and move to Japan?
Yes, it sounds like such an unrealistic plan, but actually, it is now is the perfect time to move and work in Japan. The economy is booming thanks to pre-Olympic excitement, and Tokyo is becoming more open to foreigners than ever before.
However, getting jobs as a foreigner in Japan can be extremely hard. With this article, I wanted to share all my past experiences to support your endeavor. Here are some important tips to get a job in Japan.
1. Get a university degree
First things first, a university degree is one the most important things to start with in order to get a job in Japan. Almost any degree from any university will do, but unless you have the degree, it’s almost impossible to get a job here. The Japanese government doesn’t usually give working visa to those without university degrees.
2. Apply for working holiday visa
If you are from one of the countries that have a working holiday agreement with Japan and you are between 18-30 years old, this is the most popular option. For example, my friend Lucas came here with this visa, he worked at a restaurant, then he got a job as a French teacher and a model. By the end of the year, he earned enough money to travel around Japan. More information can be found here.
3. Contact companies via recruiting websites
If you are knowledgeable about programming, digital marketing, or similar skills of our modern age, Japanese startup companies are always eager to hire talented staff. They will usually provide visa support too. Wantedly is a popular platform for startups to post recruitment ads. Gaijinpot is a popular website for companies that are looking specifically for foreigners to work in Japan.
4. Use recruitment companies
There are many such companies in Japan specialized in global business. Some of my friends got jobs through them in the field of front-end engineering, web design, and similar technology-driven professions. If you already have working experiences or skills, they will match you with the Japanese companies that are willing to recruit foreigners. You could also be a recruiter at these companies yourself as well. The popular ones include Robert Walters and East West Consulting.
The key is to have some skills that you can supply the current demand on the job market, and use the services and connections that are available to you well. As for skills, IT related skills are desirable such as programing, UI/UX design, digital marketing and web design. I also know that some of my friends were also successful in getting jobs in the field of accounting, bilingual customer support, and language teaching.
On TechAcute we also have an international Job Board. If you’re lucky you might find a position in Japan there as well.
Now that you have all the information, I look forward to working with you in Tokyo soon. Ganbatte kudasai!
Photo credit: Christopher Isak
