Why is Japan a Desired Destination for Many Foreigners?
There are various reasons why foreigners aspire to live in Japan.
Many foreigners are drawn to Japan for several reasons, including
- Safety: Japan is known for being a safe country.
- Comprehensive insurance and benefits.
- Cultural emphasis on good manners, adherence to rules, and order in public places.
- Relatively low cost of living.
- A reputation for being a friendly and welcoming country.
Additionally, foreigners are attracted to Japan for various reasons, including its:
- Cultural customs
- Rich nature
- History
- Pop culture
- Cleanliness
- Food
Moreover, the Japanese government's initiative to address the labor shortage, stemming from a declining birthrate and aging population, has led to expanded opportunities for foreign workers. Consequently, there is a growing number of individuals desiring to live in Japan.
Percentage of foreign nationals already living in Japan by occupation
Occupations in which foreigners work in Japan span various sectors, including manufacturing, services, wholesale and retail, lodging and food services, and the construction industry. Notably, sales and marketing emerged as the most common type of jobs for foreigners. Many companies hire foreign personnel for sales and marketing roles to facilitate business with international clients and markets.
- Manufacturing industry
- Service industry
- Wholesale and retail
- Lodging and food services
- Construction industry
The most prevalent jobs for foreigners in Japan are in sales and marketing. This is attributed to numerous companies hiring foreign professionals in these roles to engage in business with foreign countries.
Below is a table indicating the percentage of foreign workers in various industries;
- Manufacturing: 26.6%
- Services (not elsewhere classified): 16.2%.
- Wholesale and retail trade: 13.1%.
- Lodging and food services: 11.5
The proportion of Individuals Moving to Japan Primarily for Work Purposes
Firstly, it's important to clarify that our primary audience consists of "working individuals" aiming to immigrate to Japan for employment purposes.
This information might not be as relevant for those considering a move to Japan primarily out of admiration for the country.
We will break down the details step by step.
Current Number of Foreign Nationals Residing in Japan
Before discussing percentages, it's essential to look at the number of foreigners residing in Japan.
Based on 2023 data, there are "approximately 2.96 million people" from other countries living in Japan.
Considering Japan's total population of about 130 million, this means that foreigners make up roughly 3% of the entire population.
Percentage of Foreign Nationals in Japan Intending to Work
In Japan, a significant 45.6% of foreign workers are employed under short-term residence statuses like "activity other than that permitted under the status of residence" or "technical internship." These statuses differ from professional ones, which are typically meant for long-term employment.
As of 2022, the number of foreign workers in Japan has surged to 1,823,000, making up 2.7% of the total workforce. Breaking this down by nationality, Vietnamese nationals form the largest group with 453,344 workers, representing 26.2% of all foreign workers. They are followed by Chinese nationals at 397,084 (23.0%), and Filipinos at 191,083 (11.1%).
This data indicates that over 80% of foreigners in Japan have moved there primarily for work purposes.
Motivations for Seeking Employment in Japan
The perception that foreigners are solely drawn to working in Japan due to its high salary levels is a common misconception. In reality, there are several other factors at play, including generous government support and the growing globalization of companies.
Many foreign workers come to Japan with the dual goal of increasing their income and enhancing their skill sets.
While some individuals in Japan may voice concerns on social networking sites about rising taxes and challenges in raising children, it's important to note that this viewpoint doesn't necessarily reflect the overall sentiment. It's often a vocal minority that holds such views, and they may not be actively striving to improve their financial situation.
Frequent criticism of Japan on social media platforms can lead to the perception that it's not an ideal place to work, but this viewpoint differs from the perspective of people overseas. It's essential to emphasize that the intention is not to discourage working in Japan.
In reality, foreign workers often enjoy favorable treatment in Japan and are encouraged to actively contribute to the workforce. From an international perspective, Japan is considered a desirable place to work.
This is why many foreigners choose to immigrate to Japan and pursue employment opportunities there.
Emigrating to Japan: Recommended Jobs
Below are professions that demand specialized skills when immigrating to Japan.
- Engineer
- Technical position
- Translation and Interpretation
- Trading business
- Foreign language school
Engineering and Technical Jobs
There is a persistent shortage of IT engineers in Japan, making job opportunities relatively abundant. A distinctive feature is the lower emphasis on prior experience; even individuals without experience can secure employment, with a focus on future potential rather than current skills.
For those aspiring to find a job after acquiring skills, graduating from a Japanese programming school is a viable path. This allows individuals to not only gain Japanese language proficiency but also develop essential IT skills.
Below are some recommended programming schools in Japan.
This programming school supports students from skill acquisition to IT career change.
The skills you acquire in engineering are versatile and can lead to valuable experience while working in Japan. Furthermore, when the time comes to return to your hometown, finding new employment will likely be easier. Additionally, if you have a mastery of the Japanese language, it can be a significant advantage.
Currently, Japan is facing a shortage of hundreds of thousands of IT professionals, making it relatively straightforward to secure a job if you meet the necessary qualifications.
One drawback is the stringent criteria for obtaining a work visa. Below are the educational prerequisites for securing an engineer's work visa:
To work in the engineering field, you must hold either a "Technical/Humanities/International Services" or "High Skilled Specialist 1 (b)" title. Each has its own set of acquisition requirements, and it's essential to verify in advance whether you meet these requirements. We will delve into further details in upcoming posts.
Here is a summary of the fundamental educational prerequisites for obtaining an engineer's work visa.
- To qualify for an engineer's work visa, you must have completed a bachelor's degree from a university, including junior college and graduate school, or from a Japanese professional training college.
- You need a minimum of 10 years of professional experience in the specific engineering field that you plan to work in while in Japan.
- You must also have successfully obtained the specified qualifications related to your chosen field.
Translation and Interpretation Occupations
While the number of translation and interpretation jobs has seen a decline in recent years, primarily due to the emergence of AI, there persists a requirement for human proofreading and verification.
Consequently, the demand for translation and interpretation services remains steady. Professions such as interpreters who can provide real-time multilingual communication hold particular value.
Trading Business
If you're contemplating a move to Japan, the trading industry stands out as one of the easiest sectors to secure a work visa in. Becoming a trading clerk is an ideal choice for individuals who have a keen interest in English and a strong fascination with international business.
One of the highly recommended roles in your destination country is involving yourself in the importation of Japanese products. Overseas interest in Japanese cuisine is on the rise, leading to a growth in Japanese restaurants worldwide. Stocking Japanese retort foods, cereals, confectionery, and more could potentially become a popular demand in the future.
As many Japanese companies aim to expand their global presence, there is a rising demand for sales personnel proficient in foreign languages. If you possess sales experience, you can contribute to the growth of a Japanese global company, being recognized as a valuable asset.
Foreign Language School Teacher
In Japan, you have various options for pursuing a career as an English language teacher. You can teach at English language schools, educational institutions, companies, or organizations catering to international students, business professionals, and their families. Some individuals also choose to volunteer as teachers for non-profit organizations or English language clubs.
In Japan, there is a widespread fascination with foreign languages. Hence, a highly recommended profession is becoming a teacher of one's native language.
English language teachers can work in different capacities, including full-time positions, part-time roles, temporary positions, or as freelancers. Full-time teachers are considered 'permanent' employees, having an employment contract with the school and receiving a monthly salary.
To work as an English teacher in Japan, you must meet the following requirements;
- Passing the English Language Teaching Proficiency Test, TESOL
English teachers play a crucial role in instructing individuals whose native language isn't English, focusing on developing their reading, writing, and speaking skills in the language. Additionally, part of their role involves conveying knowledge about the history, customs, subcultures, and trends of other countries.
An ideal candidate for an English language teaching position is someone who possesses a genuine interest in foreign cultures, including the home countries and backgrounds of their students. Those with the dedication to teach patiently and a keen sensitivity to language nuances are well-suited for careers as English language teachers.
Exploring Different Job Search Opportunities
The primary types of employment services include;
- Hello Work
- Recruitment Agency
- Corporate Website
- Job posting sites
Hello Work
Hello Work, often referred to as the Public Employment Security Offices (Shokuan), is a service established by the Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare. Its primary goal is to ensure stable employment opportunities for the public, serving as an institution that assists individuals in finding employment or making career changes.
Hello Work offers the following services, all provided free of charge:
- Providing information on job openings
- Career counseling
- Job Training Programs
- Job consultation
- Employment Insurance Procedures
- Procedures for Unemployment Benefits
In many cases, they also connect individuals with local job opportunities, serving as a valuable resource for those facing challenges in their job search.
Hello Work operates in over 500 locations across Japan, making it accessible to people residing in virtually any area. There are no restrictions based on age or other attributes, but access is granted to those with an official release from employment.
It's important to note, however, that this service is exclusive to residents of Japan and can only be utilized once you have a registered address in the country.
Recruitment Agency
Recruitment agencies play a vital role in supporting candidates until they secure job offers. Operating on a business model that matches job seekers with companies in need of human resources, these agencies are compensated by the companies once the job placement is successful, making their services entirely free for job hunters.
The range of support provided by recruitment agencies includes:
- Assistance in self-analysis and exploration of preferred industries and companies.
- Guidance and correction for ES (Entry Sheet) preparation.
- Interview advice and mock interviews.
- Job introductions aligned with one's strengths and preferences.
- Schedule coordination.
- Screening assistance.
- Utilization of connections with companies to gather hiring requirements and evaluation criteria in advance, shared with job hunters.
- Post-selection process follow-up, obtaining feedback on the selection process.
An attractive feature of recruitment agencies is their accessibility even before relocating to Japan.
Company Website
This is a method of applying for a job directly through a career page on the company's official website. However, the recruitment standards are often stringent.
Some companies do not list job openings on external job sites, and the number of vacancies is limited. Therefore, getting hired can be challenging unless you possess the skills that make employers think, 'I want this person!'
Job Posting Website
This is a method of recruitment through platforms like 'Rikunabi NEXT,' which features numerous job openings.
The advantage lies in the ability to select the desired company while comparing it with other job opportunities.
Recommended Recruiting Agencies
Comprehensive Recruitment Agencies in Japan
For individuals residing in Japan, the initial step when considering a job change often involves utilizing a general recruitment agency. However, it's worth noting that several of the industry's top recruitment agencies have restrictions that prevent overseas registration. This limitation can narrow down your available options.
Pasona Career
[Official Website] Pasona Career
- Consistently secured the top spot in the Oricon Customer Satisfaction Survey for two consecutive years, in both 2019 and 2020.
- Holds 80% of all private jobs
- Handles jobs with overseas branches and expatriate prerequisites.
- Consulting team for promoting women's success, and they focus on helping women change careers.
Pasona Career primarily focuses on individuals aged 25 to 35, so if you fall within this age group, you'll have access to a wide range of job opportunities.
While it is also well-regarded by individuals in their 40s and beyond, the number of job listings may be slightly fewer for this age group. In such cases, it's advisable to complement your job search with JAC Recruit, a specialist in mid-career transitions.
Furthermore, Pasona Career offers substantial support for women seeking career changes, making it an excellent choice for expatriate wives looking to register and explore job options.
Mama Works
[Official website]Mamaworks
- Job application site for housewives
- Free choice of time and place to work.
- Wide range of video courses and columns
While the primary focus is on "mothers who aspire to work even while raising children," this site is also highly recommended for individuals without children. It caters to a wide range of job opportunities suitable for homemakers.
One of the standout features is the ability to search for positions with flexible conditions, including options like "work from home" or "on-site work," and various employment statuses such as full-time, contract, temporary, outsourced, part-time, and spot jobs.
You have the flexibility to either independently browse and apply for jobs or seek job referrals through career counseling services.
Specialized Recruitment Agencies
If you're a recent graduate or pursuing a second degree, a general job placement agency is often the simplest choice. However, if you already have some work experience, turning to a specialized agency can significantly enhance your chances of securing your desired position.
Furthermore, unlike general recruitment agencies, many specialized agencies often welcome registrations from overseas candidates.
Several of the agencies featured here specialize in fields such as accounting, taxation, finance, management, and professional services. If you have a specific industry in mind, such as IT, pharmacy, childcare, nursing, and more, consider seeking out an agency that specializes in that particular industry for a tailored job search experience.
JAC Recruitment
[Official website]JAC Recruitment
- Strong in global career changes such as foreign companies and companies with overseas operations.
- Expertise in managerial, technical, and professional jobs
- Main individuals aged between 30 and 50.
- 60% of all private jobs
The primary focus of this service is on job seekers in their 30s to 50s, with specialization in managerial, technical, and professional positions.
It's worth noting that individuals in their 20s, earning less than 5 million yen annually in their current roles and lacking management experience, may sometimes face challenges in securing interviews due to limited job opportunities in this category.
However, the criteria are stringent because they aim to connect candidates with high-level positions. If your experience and skills align with their requirements, you'll have access to prestigious job opportunities that may not be available elsewhere.
If you possess confidence in your experience and skills, this service presents an excellent opportunity for you to explore.
Jasnet Carrier
[Official website]Jasnet Carrier
- Specialized in the fields of accounting, taxation, and finance.
- Wide range of jobs available, including young professionals in their 20s, mid-career professionals in their 30s, and managers over 40 years of age
- Accountant's Library [Premium Plan] is available.
While private jobs account for 99% of all positions, the number of listings with this agency may be smaller compared to general recruitment agencies. However, what sets them apart is their ability to connect you with exclusive job opportunities not accessible to the general public.
Additionally, when you register as an agent, you can enjoy complimentary access to the Accountant's Library Premium Plan, which is typically priced at 980 yen per month.
For expatriate wives who might experience a brief gap before actively job hunting, the option to access practical video courses is highly appealing. These courses can be beneficial for skill development before returning to Japan and embarking on a full-fledged job search.
REX
【Official Websites】REX
REX Features
- Specialized in CPAs, tax accountants, accounting, and finance.
- Strong support for career change for senior and managerial positions
- Private jobs account for 40% of the total
The opportunities available at accounting firms, tax firms, and auditing firms for certified public accountants (CPAs) and tax accountants are notably appealing.
A significant portion of these positions is tailored for individuals in their 30s and 40s. It's worth highlighting that individuals with prior experience at accounting firms are often the most successful candidates when working with specialized agents in this field.
MS-Japan
[Official website]MS-Japan
- Specialized recruitment agency for administrative and professional sectors
- The No. 1 agent specializing in the management sector
- Known for careful consulting
A significant number of job opportunities are open to qualified candidates, and having experience in financial, legal, and economic fields is highly advantageous.
Our portfolio also includes numerous positions within publicly listed companies and foreign companies.
Similar to JAC Recruitment, it's important to note that interview selection may depend on your background and skills. However, if you have confidence in your qualifications and abilities, we strongly encourage you to leverage our services.
Scout-Type Job Agencies
Numerous scout-type job search websites offer the option to register from overseas.
It's uncommon for expatriates to immediately seek job changes. Nevertheless, using such a service can be valuable in terms of assessing your market worth and understanding which companies might be interested in your current background, work history, and skill set.
MIDAS
[Official website]MIIDAS
- Self-analysis with 3 diagnostic contents
- Scouting type from companies
- Only offers with a firm offer of an interview (application screening passed)
This platform offers three free self-assessment tools: "Market Value Diagnosis," "Competency Diagnosis," and "Personality Diagnosis."
However, it's important to note that the Market Value Assessment often provides an inflated estimate of your market worth, which can boost your confidence but may not align with realistic figures.
For instance, I received a somewhat satisfying estimate that my market value was approximately 1.5 times my previous job's annual salary. While this result was uplifting, I recognized that it might not be entirely reliable due to the inflated estimate.
Additionally, you gain access to the "Nikkei Value Search's Industry Report," typically a paid resource, at no cost. This report can be a valuable source of information to aid in your research.
BizReach
[Official website]Bizreach
- High-Class Career Site
- The industry leader in scout-type job search sites
- One-third of jobs with annual incomes of 10 million or more
This platform is a comprehensive scout-type job search website, focusing on high-level positions.
The company proudly asserts itself as an industry leader, boasting an extensive database of over 120,000 job openings, with more than 20,000 of them in the private sector.
They offer both free and paid plans. However, it's important to note that free plans come with limitations. If you are genuinely committed to pursuing a job change, registering for a paid plan is advisable to access the full range of benefits.
