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Japan

Work in Japan

Japan is one of the world’s most advanced economies, known for its high salaries, technological advancements, and a strong demand for skilled professionals. With opportunities in IT, engineering, healthcare, education, finance, and manufacturing, Japan is a top destination for foreign workers looking for long-term career growth.

 

If you plan to live and work in Japan, you must obtain a Japan Work Visa based on your job type and qualifications.

Who Needs Work Permit for Japan?

  • 1

    Non-Japanese citizens

    Non-Japanese citizens must apply for a work visa before starting employment in Japan
  • 2

    Foreign students

    Foreign students in Japan may need a separate part-time work permit to work while studying
  • 3

    Working Holiday Visas

    Working Holiday Visas are available for citizens of certain countries under a special agreement

Types of Work Visas in Japan

Japan Engineer/Humanities/International Services Visa (Most Common Work Visa)

  • For: Skilled professionals with a job offer from a Japanese employer.
  • Best for: IT, engineering, finance, marketing, and consulting professionals.

Key Requirements:

  • Full-time job contract from a registered Japanese company.
  • A recognized Bachelor’s degree or relevant work experience.
  • Employer must sponsor your Certificate of Eligibility (COE).

📌 Processing Time: 4-6 weeks
 📌 Validity: 1-5 years (renewable)
 📌 Application Fee: ¥3,000 – ¥6,000 (€20 – €40)

Japan Highly Skilled Professional Visa (Fast-Track to Permanent Residency)

  • For: High-earning professionals with advanced qualifications.
  • Best for: IT specialists, researchers, executives, and scientists.

Key Requirements:

  • Salary must be at least 1.5x the national average (~€2,000/month).
  • A recognized Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a relevant field.
  • Employer must sponsor your EU Blue Card application.

📌 Processing Time: 3-5 weeks
 📌 Validity: 5 years (renewable)
 📌 Application Fee: ¥3,000 – ¥6,000 (€20 – €40)

Japan Specified Skilled Worker Visa (For Non-Degree Holders)

  • For: Semi-skilled workers in hospitality, nursing, construction, agriculture, and manufacturing.
  • No university degree required – based on skills & industry tests.

Key Requirements:

  • Employer must provide a full-time contract.
  • Must pass Japanese language (JLPT N4) & technical skill tests.
  • Workers must return home after visa expires unless upgraded to another visa.

📌 Processing Time: 4-6 weeks
 📌 Validity: Up to 5 years (non-renewable)
 📌 Application Fee: ¥3,000 – ¥6,000 (€20 – €40)

Japan Working Holiday Visa (For Short-Term Work & Travel)

  • For: Young professionals (18-30 years) from eligible countries who want to work and travel.
  • Best for: Hospitality, retail, language teaching, and part-time work.

Key Requirements:

  • Must be from a country with a Working Holiday agreement with Japan.
  • Proof of financial stability (~¥200,000 or €1,400).
  • Cannot work full-time for one employer.

📌 Processing Time: 3-6 weeks
 📌 Validity: 1 year (non-renewable)
 📌 Application Fee: ¥3,000 (€20)

Japan Business Manager Visa (For Entrepreneurs & Investors)

  • For: Foreign entrepreneurs and business owners looking to start a company in Japan.

Key Requirements:

  • Minimum investment of ¥5 million (€35,000) in a Japanese company.
  • Must establish an office and hire at least two employees.
  • Detailed business plan & financial projections.

📌 Processing Time: 1-2 months
 📌 Validity: 1-5 years (renewable)
 📌 Application Fee: ¥3,000 – ¥6,000 (€20 – €40)

How to Apply for Japan Work Permit?

Step 1: Secure a job offer from a Japanese employer (not required for Working Holiday Visa).
 Step 2: Employer applies for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) from the Immigration Office.
 Step 3: Submit a visa application at the Japanese embassy or consulate.
 Step 4: Attend a biometric appointment & visa interview.
 Step 5: Receive visa approval & travel to Japan.
 Step 6: Register with the Local Immigration Office upon arrival.

Job Market & Salaries in Japan

IndustryAverage Salary (Annual)
IT & Software Development¥5M - ¥9M (€35,000 - €65,000)
Healthcare & Nursing¥4M - ¥7M (€28,000 - €50,000)
Engineering & Manufacturing¥4.5M - ¥8M (€32,000 - €58,000)
Construction & Skilled Trades¥3M - ¥6M (€22,000 - €45,000)
Hospitality & Retail¥2.5M - ¥4M (€18,000 - €30,000)

Work Visa to Permanent Residency & Citizenship

  • After 10 years of legal work, apply for Permanent Residency in Japan.
  • Highly Skilled Professionals can apply for PR in as little as 1-3 years.
  • After 5 years of PR, you may be eligible for Japanese citizenship.