How to Apply for Japan Jobs Online from Anywhere in the World
Japan is a country with an excellent quality of life and advanced technology, and working there is a dream for many. As the country’s technology and economy advance, the demand for local workers decreases, which creates more job openings. The Japanese government actively welcomes foreigners to fill these positions and has introduced various visa types to attract a foreign workforce.
However, unlike some countries where you can get a job with only English knowledge, working in Japan is different. Japanese language proficiency is a crucial factor, mainly because most daily life and work in Japan is conducted in Japanese, and many Japanese people are not fluent in English.
Another advantage for foreigners is Japan’s aging population and low birth rate, which has created a shortage of young workers. This has created a high demand for foreign labor in many sectors, including:
- Agriculture
- Fisheries
- Technical Maintenance
- Construction
- Vehicle and Electrical Maintenance
- Manufacturing
- Hotel and Tourism Services
- Health Care and Elderly Care
Countries like the Philippines, Indonesia, and Vietnam already send large numbers of foreign workers to Japan. For those with higher qualifications, Japan also seeks skilled professionals in areas like:
- Software Engineering
- AI & Robotics
- IT Research & Development
The demand for these roles is high, but the supply of workers is low, which means you still have a great opportunity to get a job in Japan.
Understanding Your Path to Japan: The SSW Visa
If you have professional experience or have passed relevant exams in your field, you can apply for a Specific Skilled Worker (SSW) visa. The most important requirements for this visa are your skills and Japanese language proficiency. With these two qualifications, you can get a job in Japan and work for up to five years, and even bring your family.
Even without extensive technical qualifications, you can go to Japan as a “Technical Intern” in the jobs listed above. The key is your level of Japanese. The Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) has different levels, from N5 (the lowest) to N1 (the most advanced). To apply for a job, passing at least the N4 or N5 level is very beneficial. For office jobs, N1 is often required.
How to Apply for Japan Jobs Online: Step-by-Step Guide
When applying for a job yourself, passing the JLPT N4 exam is highly recommended. Here’s how you can proceed:
1. Create a Japanese-Style Resume
- Professional Photo: First, get a formal, professional photo that meets Japanese government standards.
- Resume Template: Create your resume in English or Japanese using a Japanese-style resume template. You can find free templates on Google, Canva, or by watching YouTube tutorials.
- Resume Content: Your resume should include your name, address, work experience, language skills, certifications, and your photo.
- Skill Portfolio: Create a PDF document with photos, videos, and links showcasing your past work.
2. Find Reputable Companies
- Search Keywords: Look for “SSW visa jobs,” “English medium jobs,” “jobs for foreigners,” or “official Japan jobs.”
- Use Trusted Websites: Many official Japanese government websites and other reliable job sites list these vacancies.
- Verify the Company: Be careful of scam sites that ask for money upfront. Always verify a company by searching their name on Google, visiting their website, and checking their address on a map.
3. Submit Your Application
- Email Application: Draft a short, clear email introducing yourself and your qualifications. Attach your resume and your skill portfolio. Make sure the subject line includes the job title and your name.
- Direct Application: Many job websites have a “Apply Now” button. You can click this, upload your resume, and write a short message about your skills and experience.
- Be Persistent: You should apply to at least 50 companies to increase your chances of getting a response. Don’t get discouraged!
4. The Interview
- Be Ready: If a company contacts you, they will likely schedule a video interview via Zoom. Japanese people are very punctual, so be sure to join the meeting on time.
- Assessment: The interview will test your Japanese and English skills, and assess your personality, work experience, your enthusiasm for working in Japan, and whether you are a law-abiding person.
- Job Offer: If you are successful, the company will send you a job offer letter and guide you through the next steps for your visa application.
This process requires effort and dedication, but it’s a direct and rewarding way to secure a job in Japan. All the resources you need—from CV templates to JLPT N4 study guides—are available online. All you have to do is start searching!