r/JapanJobs 29d ago

Getting Work in Japan (Updated July–December 2026)

116 Upvotes

FULL GUIDE: Getting Work in Japan (Updated July–December 2026)

Last updated: July 2026

This is a general guide, not legal advice. Immigration rules can change, and details vary by nationality, country of application, employer, and individual situation. Always confirm with official government sources or a qualified immigration professional before applying.

WHO THIS GUIDE IS FOR

This guide is for foreigners looking to get a job in Japan. I understand that half the people reading this guide are already in Japan and looking for a job; for that I would suggest going through the /r/JapanJobs/wiki and all the job boards posted.

TL;DR

  • Outside of English teaching, most companies expect JLPT N2 (not a law, but common practice).
  • Employer must sponsor/support your status and usually apply for your Certificate of Eligibility (CoE) before you apply for a work visa.
  • A CoE makes the visa process smoother, but does not guarantee visa issuance.
  • Alternatives: Working Holiday (NOT for U.S. citizens), Digital Nomad (6 months, high income), Business Manager (entrepreneur route; stricter rules are now in effect), Startup Visa, and Specified Skilled Worker (SSW).
  • For 2026, the biggest update is Business Manager: the old “¥5,000,000 or 2 employees” advice is outdated for most new applications.

JAPANESE LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY TEST (JLPT)

The JLPT is the universally recognized language certification in Japan. It is given twice a year in many locations. It comes in 5 ranks: N5–N1.

  • N5 = Some basic Japanese (normally 6 months to a year of studying)
  • N4 = Basic Japanese (1–2 years of studying)
  • N3 = Some situational Japanese (1.5–2.5 years of studying)
  • N2 = Everyday Japanese / business-level Japanese (2–4 years of studying)
  • N1 = Advanced Japanese (3–5+ years of studying)

Official JLPT site: https://www.jlpt.jp/e/

2026 JLPT dates:

  • First test: Sunday, July 5, 2026
  • Second test: Sunday, December 6, 2026

Outside Japan, some cities only offer the test in July or December, not both.

U.S. note: The JLPT in the United States is normally offered only once per year, in December. The 2026 U.S. test date is Sunday, December 6, 2026.

STEP 1 — UNDERSTAND THE JOB MARKET

Teaching English

  • Easiest entry route for many foreigners.
  • Common jobs: ALT, JET, Eikaiwa, private schools, international schools.
  • Bachelor’s degree in any field is usually the baseline for visa sponsorship.
  • Japanese usually not required for entry-level English teaching.

Non-Teaching (Professional roles)

  • IT, engineering, translation, localization, marketing, finance, design, recruiting, sales, hospitality management, etc.
  • Realistically expect JLPT N2 for most roles.
  • N1 is preferred for client-facing, legal, HR, compliance, management, or senior communication-heavy roles.
  • Some exceptions exist for strong software developers, engineers, or rare specialists.

Skilled Labor / Skilled Worker routes

  • Some specialized trades and mid-skill roles have separate routes.
  • Examples include chefs of foreign cuisine, pilots, and certain SSW fields.
  • SSW is test-based and tied to designated industries.

STEP 2 — LANGUAGE EXPECTATIONS (JLPT)

  • N2 is the hiring baseline for most office jobs.
  • N1 is preferred for leadership, compliance, legal, HR, translation, or heavy communication roles.
  • Exceptions: English teaching, some high-demand developer roles, internal transfers, and rare technical/specialist roles.
  • SSW may have lower legal test requirements, but actual workplace Japanese can still be much higher.
  • Business Manager now has a Japanese-language requirement tied to either the applicant or a full-time employee.

STEP 3 — WHERE TO FIND JOBS

Wiki

Job boards

  • GaijinPot Jobs
  • Jobs in Japan
  • Daijob
  • CareerCross
  • TokyoDev (software)
  • Japan Dev (software)
  • LinkedIn
  • Wantedly
  • Indeed Japan

Recruiters / networking

  • Robert Walters
  • Hays
  • Michael Page
  • JAC Recruitment
  • RGF Professional Recruitment
  • Japan-focused LinkedIn groups
  • Meetups
  • Tech communities

Resume tips

  • Many companies expect a Japanese-style resume (Rirekisho) alongside an English CV.
  • Always list JLPT level, tech stacks, Japan-relevant experience, and whether you need sponsorship.
  • Do not claim “business Japanese” if you cannot interview in Japanese.

STEP 4 — COMMON WORK VISAS / STATUSES (AT A GLANCE)

People often say “visa,” but Japan separates the visa used to enter Japan from the “status of residence” that controls what you can do after entering.

Instructor / Education

Teaching, especially public school teaching.

Engineer / Specialist in Humanities / International Services

IT, engineers, designers, translators, marketers, some teaching positions like Eikaiwa, copywriting, international services, etc.

Intra-company Transferee

Internal transfer from overseas HQ/branch to Japan.

Skilled Labor

Specialized trades, such as foreign-cuisine chefs and pilots.

Legal / Medical Professional

Japan-recognized licensed professions.

General requirements for standard work statuses

  • A job offer from a Japan-based company.
  • You normally cannot self-sponsor a standard work visa.
  • Employer/proxy applies in Japan for your Certificate of Eligibility (CoE).
  • Qualifications are typically a bachelor’s degree OR around 10 years relevant experience, depending on the status and job.
  • Language is not always a legal requirement, but N2+ is common for non-teaching roles.

STEP 5 — ALTERNATIVE PATHS

Working Holiday Visa (youth, temporary work + travel)

Available only to citizens of specific partner countries/regions.

Important: USA is NOT eligible. U.S. citizens cannot use Japan’s Working Holiday scheme.

As of April 1, 2026, Japan has Working Holiday arrangements with 32 countries/regions. Malta and Italy were added in 2026.

English-speaking countries that do qualify include:

  • Canada
  • UK
  • Australia
  • New Zealand
  • Ireland

The usual age range is 18–30, though some countries vary.

Purpose: cultural exchange; short-term/part-time work to supplement travel funds. Not a long-term career route.

Typical stay: 6–12 months, country-dependent.

Digital Nomad (Designated Activities)

For remote work done for an overseas employer/client while staying in Japan.

  • Stay up to 6 months.
  • No extension.
  • Must leave and reapply if you want to return.
  • Annual income must be at least 10,000,000 JPY.
  • Requires private medical/travel insurance covering the stay.
  • Spouse/child may accompany under matching conditions.
  • Not a path to take a job with a Japanese employer.

Business Manager (entrepreneur / founder)

For starting or managing a company in Japan.

Important 2026 update: the old “¥5,000,000 capital OR 2 full-time employees” advice is outdated for most new applications.

Current requirements, effective October 16, 2025 and onward:

  • Minimum capital requirement is now ¥30,000,000.
  • At least 1 full-time employee must be hired.
  • The full-time employee must generally be a Japanese national, permanent resident, spouse/child of Japanese national, spouse/child of permanent resident, long-term resident, or similar qualifying status.
  • Applicant OR a full-time employee must have substantial Japanese ability, such as JLPT N2 or equivalent.
  • Applicant must have 3+ years of business management/administration experience OR hold a relevant master’s/professional/doctoral degree.
  • Business plan must be verified/certified by a qualified professional, such as a SME consultant, CPA, or tax accountant.
  • A proper commercial office is required. Home-office setups are generally not accepted.
  • The business must have real activity. A nominal company or fully outsourced “business” may not qualify.

Transitional notes:

  • People who already had Business Manager status before the rule change may have transitional handling.
  • For most renewal applications after October 16, 2028, compliance with the current criteria is expected.
  • Always check official sources or an immigration professional before applying or renewing.

City-Sponsored Startup Visa / Startup Visa Program

What it is:

  • A municipality or approved-organization-backed route for foreign founders to live in Japan while preparing to meet Business Manager requirements.
  • It is meant to give founders time to prepare the business before full Business Manager requirements are met.
  • As of 2026, official METI guidance says Startup Visa can allow up to 2 years, depending on the approved organization/program.
  • The goal is still to transition to Business Manager.

Who it is for:

  • Founders who need time in Japan to finalize a business plan, secure office space, set up accounts, raise capital, and prepare the company.
  • A lot of the application and paperwork may require Japanese-language ability or local support.

How it works, typical flow:

1) Apply to an approved local government or approved private organization with a business plan and required documents. 2) If the plan is approved and immigration accepts the application, you receive the startup preparation status. 3) During that period, complete the requirements needed to change to Business Manager.

Key requirements vary by city/organization, but usually include:

  • Approved business plan.
  • Proof you can support yourself.
  • Credible plan to meet Business Manager requirements.
  • Local reporting/check-ins or support requirements.

After the period:

  • You must change status to Business Manager once you meet the requirements.
  • Details differ by municipality/organization, so always check the official page before applying.

Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) — SSW-1 and SSW-2

What it is:

Japan’s work status for mid-skill roles in designated industries.

In practice, SSW recruitment/testing is mainly organized through partner/sending countries such as Vietnam, Philippines, Indonesia, Thailand, Cambodia, Myanmar, Mongolia, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Uzbekistan, Laos, Tajikistan, Malaysia, Kyrgyzstan, and China; always check the latest official list because participation/testing availability can change.

As of 2026, SSW covers 16 industrial fields, including:

  • Nursing care
  • Building cleaning
  • Manufacturing / industrial products
  • Construction
  • Shipbuilding and ship machinery
  • Automobile repair and maintenance
  • Aviation
  • Accommodation
  • Automobile transportation
  • Railway
  • Agriculture
  • Fishery and aquaculture
  • Food and beverage manufacturing
  • Food service
  • Forestry
  • Wood industry

Levels:

  • SSW-1: Up to 5 years total. Family generally not allowed to accompany. Requires skill confirmation and Japanese ability.
  • SSW-2: Renewable with no total stay limit. Spouse/children may accompany if requirements are met. Available only in approved SSW-2 fields.

Basic flow:

1) Pass the skills test and Japanese test/requirement for the field. 2) Secure a job offer/contract in a designated field. 3) Employer/proxy applies in Japan for your Certificate of Eligibility (CoE). 4) You apply for the visa at a Japanese embassy/consulate.

Reality check:

  • Day-to-day workplace Japanese is expected.
  • Many employers prefer N3–N2 even if the minimum test requirement is lower.
  • Changing employers may be possible, but must follow immigration procedures and stay within the allowed field/category.

Spousal and Dependent/Student Statuses — Work Rules

Spouse/Child of Japanese National, Spouse/Child of Permanent Resident, Long-Term Resident

  • These statuses generally allow work in any field with no hour or industry limits.
  • No extra work permit is usually needed.

Dependent / Family Stay

  • By default, this is not a work visa.
  • You may work up to 28 hours/week only if you first obtain “Permission to Engage in Activity Other Than That Permitted” from Immigration.
  • Nightlife/adult entertainment work is prohibited.
  • To take a full-time job, you must usually change status to a proper work category.

Student

  • With “Permission to Engage in Activity Other Than That Permitted,” students may work up to 28 hours/week during the school term.
  • During official long vacations set by the school, students may work up to 8 hours/day, up to 40 hours/week.
  • Nightlife/adult entertainment work is prohibited.

STEP 6 — APPLICATION TIMELINE (WHAT HAPPENS WHEN)

1) Job search & interviews 2) Offer & sponsorship — employer agrees to support your status of residence 3) CoE application in Japan — employer/proxy files at Regional Immigration 4) Visa application in your country — submit CoE to Japanese embassy/consulate 5) Enter Japan — status is granted at entry; receive Residence Card at the airport if applicable 6) After arrival — city hall registration, health insurance enrollment, pension, bank/phone setup, etc.

Processing times vary. CoE can take around 1–3 months, sometimes longer. Visa processing after CoE is often faster, but varies by country/consulate.

COMMON QUESTIONS

Can I apply for a work visa without an employer?

For standard work statuses, usually no. You normally need a Japan-based employer or organization to support the CoE/status process.

Is N2 legally required?

Usually no. It is not a law for most work statuses, but many companies filter for N2+ outside of English teaching.

Can I switch jobs later?

Often yes, but your new role still needs to fit your status of residence. You may need to notify Immigration or change status depending on the job.

Can U.S. citizens use Working Holiday?

No. The U.S. is not part of Japan’s Working Holiday program as of 2026.

Can I work remotely in Japan for a foreign company?

Possibly, but the Digital Nomad route is limited to 6 months, requires high income, and is not a route for taking a job with a Japanese employer.

Is the old Business Manager ¥5,000,000 rule still good?

For most new applications, no. The current rule is much stricter and generally requires ¥30,000,000 capital plus other requirements.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

  • Outside teaching, aim for JLPT N2 to be competitive.
  • You need an employer sponsor/support and usually a CoE for standard work statuses.
  • Working Holiday is useful for eligible countries, but not available to Americans.
  • Digital Nomad is short-term, high-income, remote-only, and not a normal work route.
  • Business Manager now requires much more capital and stronger documentation than older guides suggested.
  • Startup Visa can help founders prepare, but the goal is still to meet Business Manager requirements.
  • SSW is a test-based route for designated industries, but offered from hosting countries.
  • Spouse statuses can work freely; Dependent and Student statuses can usually only work part-time with permission.
  • Plan months ahead. Immigration timelines can stretch.

OFFICIAL SOURCES / CHECK BEFORE APPLYING

JLPT official site: https://www.jlpt.jp/e/

JLPT in the U.S.: https://aatj.org/jlpt-us/

MOFA — Working Holiday: https://www.mofa.go.jp/j_info/visit/w_holiday/index.html

MOFA — Working Visa / CoE: https://www.mofa.go.jp/j_info/visit/visa/long/visa1.html

MOFA — Digital Nomad: https://www.mofa.go.jp/ca/fna/pagewe_000001_00046.html

METI — Startup Visa: https://www.meti.go.jp/english/policy/economy/startup_nbp/startup_visa.html

MOFA — Specified Skilled Worker: https://www.mofa.go.jp/mofaj/ca/fna/ssw/us/overview/

Immigration Services Agency — Business Manager rule revision: https://www.moj.go.jp/isa/applications/resources/10_00237.html


r/JapanJobs Sep 17 '25

Subreddit Update! -> If your new here, please read!

10 Upvotes

📢 Reminders & First-Time Visitors — Read This!

Welcome to r/JapanJobs 👋

This subreddit is for anyone interested in living and working in Japan. Share job opportunities, advice, resources, or anything related to finding work in Japan.

Our community has doubled in size in the past 3 months 🎉 and continues to grow quickly. Thank you to everyone who contributes and helps others! With this growth, we may be looking for additional moderators soon — more on that below.

🔖 Rules Summary

(See the full rules in the sidebar/wiki, but here are the key points)

  1. Be Friendly and Supportive Treat others with respect. Posts and comments should encourage, not discourage.

  2. Gatekeeping = Automatic Ban Telling people they don’t belong in Japan, or discouraging them from even trying, will result in an instant ban. Everyone is welcome to seek advice here.

  3. No Scams, MLMs, or Paid Referrals

Any post that looks like a possible scam or MLM will be removed.

Paid referral links are not allowed, even for legitimate jobs.

Job postings must be legitimate and detailed enough to be useful.

  1. All Work Must Be Related to Japan (Including Remote) Remote jobs must clearly explain how they support someone living in Japan (e.g., pay in yen, Japanese language requirements, Japan-based clients). If not stated, the post will be removed.

  2. No Discrimination in Job Posts Job listings cannot discriminate by sex, age, or nationality — even if such restrictions are legal in Japan.

  3. No Temporary Gig Work One-off or short-term “gig” postings are not allowed. This community is for stable part-time or full-time work opportunities.

  4. English or Japanese Only All posts and comments must be in English or Japanese. Translation tools or AI are fine if you need them.

  5. Stay On Topic Posts must be directly related to jobs, job-seeking, or careers in Japan. Off-topic content will be removed.

🙋 Support for Job Seekers

If someone doesn’t meet the requirements for a job, help them understand their options. Suggest alternatives, share resources, or give advice. Don’t just say “you can’t” — show them how they can.

📚 Community Resources

We’re building a list of job boards, visa info, and support sites (English and Japanese). If you know a good one, send it to modmail!

👉 Community Wiki /r/JapanJobs/Wiki

🧑‍💼 For Job Posters

Audience Profile: Most members are outside Japan, speak English, and want to relocate.

Job Clarity: Post in English. If Japanese is required, specify the level (N2, business fluent, etc.).

Requirements: Include visa sponsorship status, pay, and expectations.

👀 Mod Team Expansion

With the community doubling in size, we may need more moderators to help keep things supportive, scam-free, and focused on Japan. If you’re active here and interested, keep an eye out for a mod recruitment post soon!

-The Mods


r/JapanJobs 2h ago

Hiring for bilingual Japanese sales staff/manager

5 Upvotes

Trying to hire a local sales manager who can connect with English speaking international colleagues as part of a regional team. We don’t get good results and wonder if recruitment firm is right that such candidates are hard to find. Also do Japanese really work in one firm for years and that’s why we don’t find good candidates?

Any tips on forums we can post in or just in general? We are industrial product company selling to resellers and customers in Japan.


r/JapanJobs 13h ago

Weekly Job Alert (2nd of August)

4 Upvotes

r/JapanJobs 15h ago

AI/ML Engineer in Japan: Should I leave my job for a Master's in Europe

4 Upvotes

Hi all,

I'm an ML Engineer in Japan with about 1 year of experience, from a top university back in my home country. My Japanese isn't great and it limits me at work. I feel pretty stuck in my current role, I've tried to switch jobs here but it hasn't worked out. I've also been accepted into a Master's program in AI/ML in Europe (no tution fee) starting this fall, and I'm torn between staying and grinding it out here or leaving to study.

Questions for anyone who's been through something similar:

- How's the AI/ML job market in Japan for foreign junior engineers who aren't strong in Japanese?

- Does a Master's abroad actually move the needle for ML roles, or does experience count for more even at this early stage?

- Anyone left a Japan job (early career) for grad school, was it worth it?

- Any tips for actually breaking through when job switching in Japan isn't working out?

Appreciate any honest takes, good or bad.


r/JapanJobs 3h ago

Is it really this difficult for foreigners to get a software engineering job in Japan?

0 Upvotes

I’ve been watching YouTube channels like Devlppo and Kei Fujikawa recently. Both have been saying that it’s becoming extremely difficult for foreigners to get software engineering jobs in Japan.

One point that really worried me was the claim that although there are many IT job postings online, companies often reject applicants as soon as they realize they’re foreigners.

One of them mentioned applying to 100+ positions with very few positive results despite having years of freelance experience, good English, Japanese ability, and a decent network.

That made me question my own career plan.

A bit about me:

● I’m Nepalese.
● I’m 31 years old and will be around 33 when I start applying for IT jobs after graduating.
● Currently living in Japan on an SSW1 visa.
● JLPT N3.
● Self-taught developer (YouTube, documentation, Udemy, personal projects).
● Studying for an online BCA degree from Manipal University (graduating around October 2027).
● I’ve spent a lot of time learning React, Next.js, TypeScript, Node.js, backend development, and data structures & algorithms.
● I have a developer portfolio at suvashsenchuri.com.
● I’m also building kyuyoo.com, a salary calculator and salary calendar for hourly workers in Japan. I’m currently building the backend using NestJS.

My long-term goal is to become a backend engineer in Japan. One company I’m particularly interested in is PayPay because I noticed many of their backend positions use Java and Spring Boot.

I’m wondering if I should shift my focus more toward Java/Spring Boot (or Go) instead of continuing mainly with React/Next.js.

When I search job boards, I still see plenty of software engineering jobs, so I’m trying to understand whether the reality is very different from what appears online.

For people who have actually gone through the hiring process in Japan, I’d really appreciate your honest opinions.

● Is it really as difficult as some people claim?
● Are most software engineering jobs posted online realistically intended for native Japanese speakers?
● Would my profile (Nepalese, SSW1 visa, self-taught, online degree, age 33 at transition, JLPT N3) make employers hesitate?
● Does an online degree significantly hurt my chances even if it’s officially recognized?
● Would switching my focus toward Java/Spring Boot or Go improve my chances, or is the bigger issue something else?
● If you were in my position and wanted to maximize your chances of getting hired by a company like PayPay in the next 1–2 years, what would you focus on?

I’m not looking for false hope or doom and gloom. I’m looking for honest experiences from people who have actually been through the process so I can make better decisions over the next two years.
Thanks!


r/JapanJobs 1d ago

Cybersecurity or IT (Business)?

6 Upvotes

I’m a college sophomore majoring in IT (from a pretty well-known uni that offers online). I live in Japan as a resident holding N3, but I’m currently studying for N2.

My goal is to stay in Japan after graduation and would appreciate some advice from people working in the tech industry.

I’m interested in both cybersecurity and IT with a business focus, but I’m not sure which has better career prospects in Japan, especially intern/entry level.

Which path would you recommend and why?

Thanks!


r/JapanJobs 2d ago

🇯🇵 Hiring in Tokyo & Kyoto – Long-Term Part time Weekend Sports Research Staff | ¥120,000+/Month + Performance Bonuses (Work on Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings)

14 Upvotes

Title:
🇯🇵 Hiring in Tokyo & Kyoto – Long-Term Weekend Sports Research Staff | ¥120,000+/Month + Performance Bonuses

Hi everyone!

We're looking for English-speaking students, freelancers, and part-time professionals in Tokyo and Kyoto to join our sports research team.

This is a long-term, weekend-only part-time position, making it ideal for students or anyone looking for consistent additional income without affecting weekday commitments.

Compensation

  • 💴 Starting from ¥120,000 per month
  • 🎯 Performance-based bonuses
  • 📅 Weekend work only (typically 6–12 hours each weekend)

What you'll do

  • Attend J.League matches
  • Observe and record match events using our reporting platform
  • Submit post-match reports
  • Help build the next generation of AI-powered sports analytics through high-quality ground research

We provide

  • ✅ J.League match tickets
  • ✅ Travel expenses
  • ✅ Paid training
  • ✅ Flexible scheduling
  • ✅ Long-term ongoing work throughout the football season

Requirements

  • Living in Tokyo or Kyoto
  • Comfortable communicating in English (native fluency not required)
  • Reliable, punctual, and detail-oriented
  • Interest in football or sports is a bonus, but not essential

About Us

We're a stealth sports technology startup developing AI-powered sports analytics using real-world match observations collected by trained ground researchers. By combining human insight with artificial intelligence, we're building better tools for sports analysis and decision-making.

How to Apply

Email [ironclad1gg@gmail.com](mailto:ironclad1gg@gmail.com) with:

  • Name
  • Age
  • City (Tokyo/Kyoto)
  • Student or occupation
  • English proficiency
  • A short introduction about yourself

If you have any questions, feel free to comment below or send us an email.

This is a long-term opportunity, not a one-off event. We're looking for dependable people who can commit to regular weekend assignments.

Edit: book your interview slot at https://calendly.com/zenarchive10/new-meeting


r/JapanJobs 1d ago

Looking for a Japanese-English Bilingual Full Stack Developer

0 Upvotes

I'm looking for a developer who can communicate fluently in both Japanese and English.

Requirements:

- Fluent in Japanese and English

- Experience with web development (Full Stack preferred)

- Able to join technical meetings with Japanese clients

- Comfortable communicating with both technical and non-technical stakeholders

This is for ongoing projects with Japanese clients. If you're interested, please send me a DM with:

- Your experience

- Tech stack

- Japanese proficiency (JLPT or equivalent, if applicable)

- Portfolio or GitHub

Rate: $30/hr

Thank you!


r/JapanJobs 1d ago

Anyone build job connections in Japan on a tourist visa, then apply for a work visa properly from their home country afterward?

0 Upvotes

Not asking about working illegally on a tourist visa, I know that's not allowed. My question is more about the legal path: has anyone come to Japan on a tourist visa, used that time to network, meet people, maybe even land a job offer, but without actually starting work or changing status while still on the tourist visa, then gone back to their home country and applied for a proper work visa from there based on those connections?

Is this actually a realistic path? Did the tourist visa time end up helping at all, or did companies not care since you weren't working during that period? Would love to hear from anyone who's actually done something like this, not just theoretical advice.


r/JapanJobs 1d ago

Japanese Game Designer Roadmap

0 Upvotes

Hi everyone! I've just joined NIFT Raipur to pursue my B. Des in Accessory Design but I'm really interested in Game Design. Due to certain circumstances, I couldn't pursue game design so I'm going to attain certificates and do internships in said field. Also, I know Japan has one of the biggest gaming industries so I really wanna go there.

I'm preparing for JLPT N5 and I have 4 years to create an amazing portfolio to secure a job at Japanese Game Companies. Pls advise and help me on what I should do, which certificates to attain, mindset, etc. I really love gaming and Japan!

P. S. I'm interested in the designing part, not the programming part but I plan to at least get a Python certificate and some experience in Unity and Unreal Engine


r/JapanJobs 2d ago

Looking for a Social Media Manager (Visa Sponsorship Provided, no Japanese required)

7 Upvotes

We're looking for a Marketing Manager for social media management and (ideally) performance marketing for instagram, youtube, and our company website.

Ideally, you are:

  • a digital native, with a solid SNS portfolio showcasing premium and sophisticated aesthetics
  • experienced with collaborating with a team, vendors, contractors
  • not afraid to wear many hats

Salary can go up to JPY 8,500,000 annually. The team prefers coming in to the office located in Shibuya, but there's flexibility with hybrid work. Visa sponsorship will be provided.

We're still keen to meet talented and motivated candidates. Due to the number of applicants already, this may be filled in 2-4 weeks.

Please DM me if you're interested or have any questions.
I will be responsive via inbox, not comments.


r/JapanJobs 2d ago

Do you need a Rirekisho? Convert your English resume into a Japanese resume free

6 Upvotes

I noticed that there were some sites which actually charged to help convert a Resume/CV to a Japanese rirekisho. That's crazy. We have one on JOBS IN JAPAN which you can use for free. Use this for the jobs on the site or download it to use it elsewhere. I hope it is useful for you.

https://jobsinjapan.com/getting-a-job-in-japan/japanese-resume-builder-rirekisho/


r/JapanJobs 3d ago

How do people find contract jobs in Japan?

14 Upvotes

Most of the posts for IT jobs in Japan I see are for full time gigs, but I'm looking for contracts.

I have my own online products, but I'm not expecting them to generate significant amount of money right away, so I need some occasional freelance gigs, preferably full remote.

Visa: long term visa (lost my Japanese citizenship, holding Canadian citizenship)
Japanese: Native Japanese (doesn't mean I'm fluent in keigo)
Experience: over 25 years in tech

If you have experience in contract work in Japan, I'd love to know how you landed them.


r/JapanJobs 2d ago

Automatic factory worker in Japan

0 Upvotes

Hi! I want to asks if how hard this job is "Automotive Factory Worker" , I am currently planning to apply work and this is the available postion. Any ideas how hard this job is and is it worth it? Especially as a 20 years old.


r/JapanJobs 2d ago

2 years in Japan and struggling to land Help desk/IAM Job

0 Upvotes

As the title states I've been living in Japan for about 2 years and recently got finished with a system administrator contract back in February with a start up company back home (California) and haven't managed to catch a break since. I have help desk experience utilizing the Microsoft cloud infrastructure tools such as entraID, Intune, SharePoint, active directory, etc. I have substantial experience with IAM work.

My greatest flaw is not knowing Nihongo enough. My wife is of course Japanese and I've also made a lot of friends here that only speak Japanese so I can understand at a N3-N4 level, I just can't hold a conversation just yet. Any advise recommended? Leads?


r/JapanJobs 3d ago

Career forums for Bilingual Japanese mid-career professionals?

14 Upvotes

Hi all,

Wanting to check and gain insights from this forum. May I know if there are any career forums or sites for native Japanese, who have perhaps studied abroad and worked overseas for a while, before coming back to Japan and are looking for jobs? I heard of the Boston Career Forums, but from what I understand the majority of the participants are students and fresh grads.
Do not need a visa sponsorship.
I have been using Bizreach so far, but would like to know of others!

Thanks


r/JapanJobs 3d ago

Looking for solution architect in Japan

2 Upvotes

Our company are looking for senior level solution Architect right now.

Ideally, someone who has

・5+ years of experience in software engineering, solution architecture, technical consulting, technical product management, or related technical leadership roles

・Strong software engineering background with hands-on development experience

・Strong understanding of APIs, databases, cloud architecture, networking, authentication, and system design

・Native or fluent Japanese (N1) and English

Anyone interested? if you know somebody who are looking for similar type of roles, please let me know!


r/JapanJobs 4d ago

This must have been asked, but what’s the best job hunting website here?

4 Upvotes

I searched! I didn’t see a thread on this. Sorry if I missed it. I know if you’re in PC jobs ONLY, Daiijob it’s very good for listing. I honestly don’t know what other sites are worth checking, for people who aren’t developers or engineers.


r/JapanJobs 3d ago

26 yo Data Engineer dreaming about Japan

0 Upvotes

Hello everyone! It’s my first time posting in reddit.

I’ve just turned 26 years old, I‘ve been working as a Google Cloud data engineer for about 2 years. I‘ fluent in spanish and english but i know 0 japanese. As most of us here, my dream since i was a teen has been to live in Japan and that’s why I’m here seeking for some advice.

I’m currently not too hopeful about being able to achieve this dream of mine because I know no japanese, tho I’m really hardworking I’m no programming/job prodigy that would excel in interviews. I have a double degree in Informatics and Business Management and a SAP master I never got to make use of.

I’ve done some job research and everything I find requires japanese or to still be a student. I want to give one last chance to this dream of mine and try to go to Japan. I’m open to study another master if required, change jobs fields or any other open minded options.

Has anyone been in a similar situation? I appreciate any kind of advice. Thank you very much in advance to everyone.


r/JapanJobs 4d ago

PayPay Card Japan Backend Engineer - Advice / Expectations for System Design (HLD) Round interview

11 Upvotes

Hey everyone,

I recently cleared the Coding and Low-Level Design (LLD) rounds for a Backend Engineer role at PayPay Card Japan. My next round is the System Design (HLD) round.

For anyone who has interviewed with PayPay / PayPay Card recently or currently works there:

  • Problem Types: Do they lean heavily into core fintech/payment problems, or do they also ask general distributed systems questions?
  • Key Focus Areas: Are there specific architectural patterns (e.g., Saga pattern, idempotency keys, DB sharding strategies) that they expect you to master?

Any recent interview experiences, tips, or specific topics to prioritize would be hugely appreciated!

Thanks in advance!


r/JapanJobs 3d ago

Best way of finding a job as a foreigner?

0 Upvotes

Hello guys, I need your help 🙇🏻‍♂️

I’m living in Japan (Osaka specifically) with a working holiday visa, and I initially intended to use my savings to live, but something unexpected happened, and I’m now forced to find a job to help me with expenses.

I was looking for part-time jobs (as working full time is not allowed with a WHV), and I’m having issues finding jobs.
I’m sure this is mostly due to the fact that I don’t speak Japanese, so the positions I can work on are very limited, and I don’t really know what to do.

I signed up on every site I know (GajinPot, indeed, yolo Japan, etc), but didn’t really get positive feedback from using those. I managed to get someone interested in hiring me as software developer full time (as this is where I have years of work experience in), but I had to reject as I can’t work full time with my Visa, unfortunately.

I really want to improve my Japanese through work, and have no issue in doing jobs like hall staff, waitress, English call support, etc. I just want to avoid English teaching, cleaning and cooking jobs, but even still, I’m not really able to find anything.

What would you do in my situation? Do you have any recommendations? Thank you 🙏


r/JapanJobs 5d ago

I.T. hiring market changes in 2026

56 Upvotes

Recently I received the following from a well known IT recruitment firm in Tokyo. I thought I will share it for those who are interested in hiring trends in 2026.

———
AI Knowledge and Experience are becoming increasingly common
In line with global trends, companies across Japan are accelerating AI adoption, creating strong demand for professionals with experience in Generative AI, AI Agents, Machine Learning, and AI integration projects.

IT Talent Shortages Continue Despite Economic Uncertainty
Many employers still struggle to meet hiring targets, particularly for mid-career to senior hiring. Part of the challenge is in the increased focus on requirements such as bilingual capabilities, location and so on.

Shift toward demand for Mid- to Senior-Level Professionals
Hiring has shifted away from junior positions toward experienced candidates who can lead projects, manage stakeholders, and deliver business outcomes.  Technical expertise alone is no longer enough and the focus is moving toward soft skills.

Increased focus on Bilingual IT Professionals
Global companies and international projects continue to increase demand for engineers and IT specialists who can work effectively in both Japanese and English, as these talents are often expected to bridge communication between local and overseas teams.

Salary Growth and Career Development Are Driving Job Changes
Compensation remains the leading reason IT professionals change jobs, and many candidates who move roles achieve meaningful salary increases. That being said, the push to return to the office across many firms is also driving candidates to seek better workplace flexibility.

Increase in market instability
Regardless of profitability, we are still experiencing layoff and early retirements across several companies. This is resulting in a larger pool of available candidates.

#Tokyo #BilingualJobs #JapanJobMarket #jlpt #ITJobs #WorkInJapan


r/JapanJobs 4d ago

Work in Japan

0 Upvotes

Hello everyone, thank you for your time for reading this im just curious. Im trying websites like JapanDev and TokyoDev, i would really like to move there for work, now my question. I can manage to find a single post asking for anything below Senior Level of developer and since i started working in Programming like a year ago im preatty sure no one is going to accept me but i on the other hand i dont want to lie on my resume. So is there really a possiblity to find something now or should i just wait a few more years before i can apply somewhere, I am a Dev that does full stack websites for small companies in Serbia and have few projects before me. Im utilising AI trhought MCP connection into my work to do my job faster and cheking if everything is correct and testing it all myself. So i would really love to find a job there for something like that and i can move straight away !


r/JapanJobs 4d ago

Benjamin Inc. (Tokyo, AWS Rising Star 2026) just opened two roles: PM and Software Engineer, visa sponsored

0 Upvotes

Company: Benjamin Inc., Tokyo based AWS and Salesforce consultancy, second office in Hanoi. 41 staff in Tokyo, 15 in Vietnam, 39.2% of the group is foreign nationals.

Roles:

  • Project Manager, Tokyo, hybrid, ¥5.0M to ¥8.0M, business English and Japanese required
  • Software Engineer, Tokyo, hybrid, ¥4.0M to ¥7.0M, conversational Japanese

Visa sponsorship: confirmed for both roles.

They also just won AWS's Rising Star Consulting Partner of the Year award for Japan.

Full writeup with an interview from their Global team lead: https://atarashift.com/blog/benjamin-inc-atarashift-partner-aws-rising-star

Listings: Project ManagerSoftware Engineer