Finding Jobs in Japan
If you've never worked in Japan before, you might not know where to start. Job hunting in Japan can be unique and different from the ways in your home country. In this article, I'll explain how to look for jobs in Japan based on different types of employment!
Working Hour Limitation(VISA)
First, you need to confirm how many hours per week you are allowed to work on your visa. Permanent residents and long-term residents can work up to 40 hours per week, enabling them to pursue full-time employment. However, those on family stay or student visas are limited to 28 hours per week, restricting them to part-time positions. If you want to learn more about visas, check out the link below!
A Guide to Work Visas in Japan: Everything You Need to Know
Part Time Job
In Japan, part-time jobs are commonly referred to as "arubaito" (アルバイト), which you might already know. There are several ways to find part-time jobs in Japan.
1.Use Job Search Websites
This is often the most efficient method. When you search online, you'll find various job postings on different job search websites. Check for positions based on your location and hourly wage, and apply accordingly.
Additionally, some job search websites cater specifically to foreigners living in Japan. Guidable Jobs is one such platform! Many of these listings are written in English, making them ideal for those who are not confident in Japanese. Here are a few job search websites to consider:
・Guidable Jobs (Highly recommended👌)
2.Look for Posters Around Town
While walking around town, you'll likely come across posters outside stores saying "Arubaito boshu-chu!" (アルバイト募集中！), meaning "Part-time help wanted!" If you're interested in working at a particular place, go inside and express your interest in working there directly. Make sure to bring your resume with you. You should expect to hear back from them later! Check the link below for tips on how to write a resume.
Rirekisho: How to Write a Japanese Resume. Template Included
3.Referral System
If you have friends who are already working part-time jobs, there's a possibility they could refer you for a job opening. In many cases, being referred by someone can shorten the process from application to employment, so it's worth considering. It's a good idea to ask your friends if they know of any job openings or if they can refer you to their employer.
One- Off Job
If you only want to work on your free days and earn some extra cash, then one-off jobs are recommended. To find such jobs, you can register with agencies or companies that offer temporary job placements and manage your shifts on your own. Just like regular part-time jobs, you can often find these opportunities through websites.
Full Time Job(Contract)
If you have a visa that allows you to work up to 40 hours per week and haven't worked as a full-time employee in Japan before, then working as a contract employee is recommended. This is because it's generally easier to secure a job compared to becoming a permanent full-time employee.
In Japan, there are two types of employment based on the employer: "direct contract employees" and "dispatched(Haken) employees." For direct contract employees, job postings may be available on job search websites, and you can also apply directly through company website. For dispatched employees, you need to register with a dispatch agency, which will then refer you to various workplaces. For more details, check out the link below!
What is Haken? How to Find Haken Jobs in Japan
Full Time Job(Permanent)
To become a full-time employee in Japan, you need to understand the job-hunting process in the country.
If you are a student, Japan has a process called "shukatsu"(就活), which is tailored for graduating students. You can learn more about it here.
On the other hand, if you already have a career in your home country and are looking for similar positions in Japan, you'll need to engage in "tenshoku"(転職) activities. There are countless job placement agencies in Japan, each specializing in specific industries or job types. Some agencies also cater to foreign talent, making it easier for you to apply through them. Here are a few recruitment agents ・NIPPON 仕事.com
Of course, it's also possible to transition from a contract employee to a permanent employee (or from an intern if you're a student). Don't feel limited by specific methods; explore various avenues to find the best fit for you!
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