A Guide to Procedures for Foreigners Working in Japan

Table of Contents

1. Guide for Foreigners on Procedures to Work in Japan
2. Visas required for foreigners to work in Japan
3. Skills that help foreigners work in Japan
4. Methods for foreigners to find a job in Japan
5. Steps for foreigners to work in Japan
6. Jobs with a large number of foreign workers in Japan
7. Is it difficult for foreigners to work in Japan?
8. Similar Articles
9. Comment

Guide for Foreigners on Procedures to Work in Japan

Many foreigners who wish to work in Japan often don’t know where to start. Without thoroughly researching the necessary information, they may end up working for companies with poor working conditions, known as “ブラック企業きぎょう“(black companies), or unknowingly violate the law.

This article provides a clear summary of the procedures for foreigners who are considering working in Japan.

About the visas (residence status) required for foreigners to work in Japan

To work in Japan, you need the appropriate visa for employment. Be aware that the type of visa you hold may limit the kinds of jobs you can do.

・ A visa that allows you to work in any job

Permanent Residents, Spouses of Japanese Nationals, Spouses of Permanent Residents, and Long-Term Residents.
These visas allow you to work in Japan without any restrictions on the type of job you can do.

・A visa that allows you to work only in specific jobs

Work visas, Highly Skilled Professional visas, and Specified Skilled Worker visas.
These visas only allow you to work in designated fields or occupations. For example, there is the “Instructor” visa for teaching English or the “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” visa for working as an IT professional. Be careful, as working outside of the specified job can result in a violation of the law. There are 16 types of work visas commonly used, and you must obtain the one that matches your job.

・Visas that generally do not allow you to work

Student, Dependent, Cultural Activities, and Trainee visas. These visas generally do not allow you to work. However, students and dependents can work a limited amount if they obtain special permission (Permission to Engage in Activity Other Than That Permitted under the Status of Residence). For example, students are allowed to work up to 28 hours per week and up to 8 hours per day during long vacations.

Visa applications are processed at the Immigration Services Bureau in your area. The required documents vary depending on the type of visa, so be sure to check carefully. Typically, you’ll need your passport, photo, application form, and other supporting documents.

・Things to be careful of to avoid illegal employment

Please be aware that the following situations can result in illegal employment, leading to severe penalties:

Working outside the scope permitted by your visa.
Working despite having a visa that does not allow employment.
Continuing to work after your visa has expired.

Illegal employment not only affects the worker but also subjects the employer to penalties. It is essential to obtain the correct visa and work within the permitted scope.

Skills that help foreigners work in Japan

When working in Japan, the following skills can be advantageous when seeking employment:

Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT)
Work experience

The JLPT is a Japanese language proficiency test with five levels, from the easiest (N5) to the most difficult (N1). Many companies value Japanese language skills, so obtaining a JLPT certification can be a significant asset when job hunting. Additionally, having prior work experience, especially in the same field, can give you a strong advantage.

Methods for foreigners to find a job in Japan

Here are some methods for finding a job in Japan:

・Hello Work (Public Employment Security Office)

Hello Work is a national job placement service with over 500 locations across Japan, offering free assistance. Some offices provide support in foreign languages such as English, Chinese, and Portuguese. Additionally, job listings from Hello Work can be accessed online.

・Job search websites for foreigners

These websites compile information on companies looking to hire foreigners. Some sites allow you to search in foreign languages such as English. You can also filter job listings by various criteria, such as remote work or positions that require English skills.

・Employment and career change agencies for foreigners

Employment and career change agencies for foreigners offer personalized support. They can provide guidance on obtaining visas, assist with writing resumes, and even help with interview practice.

Steps for foreigners to work in Japan

Check the Visa: Confirm if your current visa allows you to work.
Job Search: Use Hello Work or job search websites.
Job Offer: Receive an offer of employment from a company.
Visa Change or Acquisition: Complete the necessary procedures if a visa change or new visa is required.
Employment Contract: Confirm the working conditions and sign the employment contract.
Other Procedures: Register your residence, and complete health insurance and pension procedures.
Start Working.

Each stage requires different documents and procedures, so it’s important to plan and prepare carefully.

Jobs with a large number of foreign workers in Japan

According to a 2023 survey by the Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare, the fields with the highest number of foreign workers in Japan are as follows.

Manufacturing
Service industry
Wholesale and retail trade
Hotels and restaurants

Reference: Summary of the “Employment Situation of Foreign Workers” report (as of the end of October, 2022).

Is it difficult for foreigners to work in Japan?

Working in Japan isn’t easy, but there are plenty of opportunities if you focus on the following:

Study Japanese diligently.
Deepen your understanding of Japanese culture and manners.
Look for jobs that utilize your strengths.
Actively seek companies that are eager to hire foreigners.
Research and prepare thoroughly to obtain the necessary visa.

The Japanese government and companies are making efforts to create a more welcoming environment for foreign workers, so the number of opportunities is expected to increase.

Prepare well and take on the challenge of working in Japan.

For those who need support with studying Japanese, such as for the JLPT, Enuncia offers both group and private lessons.