Douglas Olsen
International students in Japan can work part-time while studying, provided they meet specific eligibility requirements. Students can work up to 28 hours per week during academic terms and up to 40 hours per week during extended school breaks. This flexibility helps students financially, provides valuable work experience, and improves their Japanese language skills. Students must apply for permission to engage in activities other than that permitted under the status of residence previously granted at a regional immigration services bureau. It is important to note that working in adult industries, such as bars, is prohibited for international students, and disobeying regulations can result in deportation or fines.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Work hours for international students | Up to 28 hours per week during academic terms and up to 40 hours per week during extended school breaks |
| Work permit | Required for international students with a student visa |
| Work type | Part-time work is common, but internships and job hunting are also possible |
| Language requirements | Basic to intermediate Japanese (JLPT N4 or N3) for roles in retail, restaurants, or hospitality; language teaching jobs may require little to no Japanese |
| Income | Average monthly earnings from part-time work are approximately 59,000 yen (421 USD) |
| Visa requirements | Student visa, working holiday visa, or work visa; a bank statement showing sufficient funds for tuition, accommodation, and living costs is typically required |
| Job opportunities | Networking, career services provided by schools, job agencies, and job fairs |
| Prohibited industries | Adult entertainment and other industries that may involve inappropriate acts, such as bars |
| Residence status | Linked to the purpose of stay or field of employment; various types of residence status are available, including "Highly-skilled Professional" |
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What You'll Learn
Part-time work is possible, but full-time hours are allowed during breaks
International students in Japan can work part-time while pursuing their studies, if they meet specific eligibility requirements. Students can work up to 28 hours per week during academic terms and up to 40 hours per week during extended school breaks. This flexibility supports students financially, provides valuable work experience, and helps improve their Japanese language skills.
To work part-time, international students must apply for "permission to engage in activities other than that permitted under the status of residence previously granted" at a regional immigration services bureau. This is also referred to as applying for a work permit or "permission to engage in activity other than that permitted in status of residence previously granted". Students are advised to fill out the form before arriving in Japan, as it can take up to a month to receive a work permit once in the country. Once approved, the student's Japanese residence card and passport will be stamped.
Part-time work is a great way for international students to cover their living expenses, including food and transportation costs. However, it is important to note that part-time work earnings are intended to supplement academic costs and necessary expenses, not for saving or sending money overseas. Additionally, students should prioritize their studies and always follow visa regulations to maintain their residency status in Japan.
There are challenges to finding part-time work in Japan as an international student, especially if you are still learning Japanese. Many roles require at least conversational Japanese (JLPT N4 or N3). Adapting to cultural differences, such as strict punctuality and formal workplace norms, can also be challenging. However, students can overcome these hurdles by prioritizing their studies, networking, and carefully selecting their school's location.
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Work permit and visa requirements must be met
International students in Japan can work part-time while studying, but they must meet specific eligibility requirements. Initially, a student visa does not allow holders to work in Japan. International students must apply for "permission to engage in activity other than that permitted in status of residence previously granted" or a work permit. This can be done at a regional immigration services bureau or other official organisations. It is recommended to fill out the form before arriving in Japan, as it can take up to a month to receive a work permit once in the country.
Once approved, the student's Japanese residence card and passport will be stamped. Students can then work up to 28 hours per week during academic terms and up to 40 hours per week during extended school breaks. Students must be mindful of the number of hours they work, as exceeding work hours can put their residency status at risk.
Students who wish to remain in Japan after graduation and find employment must apply for a change of status of residence for employment purposes. They will need to verify that they can acquire a status of residence that matches their desired employment type. This can include "Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services", "Artist", "Religious Activities", "Journalist", and Skilled Labor".
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Language barriers may hinder job opportunities
International students can work in Japan, but they need to apply for "permission to engage in activities other than that permitted under the status of residence previously granted", or a work permit. This can be done at a regional immigration services bureau or other official organizations. Students can work up to 28 hours a week, and part-time work is common, with approximately 67% of privately financed international students engaging in it.
However, language barriers may hinder job opportunities for international students in Japan. Japanese is a notoriously difficult language for English speakers to learn, with its complex writing system and cultural nuances. While it is possible to get by with limited Japanese, as some sources suggest, not knowing the language may limit the types of jobs available to international students.
The Japanese school system does not produce strong conversational English speakers, which can make it difficult for international students to communicate with their peers and potential employers. Additionally, Japanese culture values perfectionism, which may make native Japanese students intimidated to speak English for fear of making mistakes. This can further hinder opportunities for international students to network and connect with potential employers.
Furthermore, while Japan has been making efforts to improve communication with foreigners ahead of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, the country has a reputation for being insular and unwelcoming to outsiders. This cultural barrier, combined with the language barrier, may make it challenging for international students to find job opportunities.
To improve their chances of finding employment, international students should focus on improving their Japanese language skills, both before and after arriving in Japan. This can include enrolling in language classes, using popular textbooks like the Genki series, and immersing themselves in the language by interacting with native speakers in their daily lives. Breaking down the language barrier will likely lead to more job opportunities and a more positive experience living and working in Japan.
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Scams targeting foreign students are common
International students in Japan are permitted to work part-time, but they must first apply for "permission to engage in activities other than that permitted under the status of residence previously granted" at a regional immigration services bureau. Students can work up to 28 hours a week, earning an average monthly income of 59,000 yen (421 USD). However, it is challenging to cover all living expenses with part-time work alone, and students are advised to engage in financial planning.
Job Scams
Be cautious of job agencies that promise high-paying jobs or guarantee employment. These agencies may provide false information about wages and the ability to cover living expenses with part-time work. Legitimate employers will not ask you to pay money for a job or internship opportunity. Always refer to trusted sources of information, such as the "`Student Guide to Japan,'" to verify the accuracy of any job-related claims.
Identity Theft
Criminal organizations may target foreign students and offer simple tasks in exchange for money. Never provide personal documents to strangers, as they may be used for illegal activities. Protect your sensitive information, such as your birthday, visa number, and social security number.
Rental Listing Scams
Posing as landlords, scammers may ask for a deposit on a property that does not exist. Always verify the legitimacy of the landlord and the property before making any payments.
Deportation and Arrest Scams
Be aware of callers claiming that you are in legal trouble and demanding immediate restitution through gift cards or wire transfers. Do not fall for threats or intimidation tactics, and always verify the identity of the person contacting you.
Credit Score Scams
Only use trusted sources, such as your bank or credit card company, to check your credit score. Avoid free credit score services that may steal your personal and financial information.
Remember, criminal activity is heavily punished in Japan, and ignorance of the law is not an excuse. Always prioritize your safety and consult trusted sources, such as your school, when in doubt.
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Work experience can be gained through internships
International students in Japan can gain valuable work experience through internships and part-time jobs. While studying, internships and job hunting can be undertaken, but specific eligibility requirements must be met. For instance, international students must apply for "`permission to engage in activities other than that permitted under the status of residence previously granted'" at a regional immigration services bureau. This permission allows international students to work up to 28 hours per week during academic terms and up to 40 hours per week during extended school breaks.
Part-time work is a common way for international students to gain work experience in Japan, with approximately 67% of privately financed international students engaging in it. However, finding a part-time job can be challenging due to language barriers, cultural differences, visa restrictions, and limited job opportunities in rural areas. Nonetheless, international students with strong Japanese language skills and an understanding of Japanese work culture can increase their chances of gaining valuable work experience through internships and part-time jobs.
To find part-time work, international students can take advantage of networking opportunities, job fairs, and their school's location. Many part-time jobs are found through word-of-mouth and networking with friends, locals, and teachers. Additionally, job fairs and career events can provide direct access to employers and improve job prospects. Choosing a school in an urban area can also increase the availability of part-time job opportunities.
International students should be aware of scams targeting foreign students and always consult their school if they have any concerns. It is also important to prioritize studies and not rely solely on part-time work to cover expenses. Work experience gained through internships and part-time jobs can provide international students with valuable skills, improve their Japanese language abilities, and enhance their employability in Japan.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, international students can work part-time in Japan while pursuing their studies, if they meet specific eligibility requirements. Students can work up to 28 hours per week during academic terms and up to 40 hours per week during extended school breaks.
International students must apply for "permission to engage in activities other than that permitted under the status of residence previously granted" at a regional immigration services bureau. This is also known as applying for a work permit. It is recommended to do this before arriving in Japan, as the process can take up to a month.
International students can apply for almost any kind of job posting but are not allowed to work in the adult entertainment industry. Many international students find work in food service, retail, or teaching English, though language schools often hire their own students to teach English.
