Step 2.
Preparation
Moving to Japan isn’t something you figure out on the fly — it takes some serious prep. Before you send out applications, it’s important to know what Japanese companies expect and how to present yourself in a way that fits the local job market.
In this step, we cover the essentials: what kind of education or experience you need, how much Japanese you should speak, and how to write a proper resume and cover letter that meets local standards. It’s not just about looking good on paper — it’s about showing you understand how things work in Japan.
The better your preparation, the smoother your next steps will be.
Degree vs Experience
Having a degree is often required for certain work visas in Japan. A bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) is usually a prerequisite for a general work visa, especially for white-collar jobs—those that typically involve office or desk work. A degree shows that you have formal knowledge in your field and meet the expectations of Japanese employers.
However, extensive experience in a specific field can sometimes outweigh the need for a degree, especially if you can clearly demonstrate your skills and expertise. If you have many years of professional experience and have become an expert in your field, Japanese companies are often more willing to hire foreign professionals. This is particularly true in industries facing labor shortages, such as manufacturing, agriculture, and hospitality.
Additionally, there are specific visas like the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) visa, which targets semi-skilled workers in certain sectors. This visa often doesn’t require a degree but does require a certain skill level and, in many cases, basic Japanese language ability.
It’s important to research the type of job or industry you want to work in and find out whether a degree or experience is more valued. Some job listings may be flexible, while others have strict requirements.
Japanese
It’s no surprise that learning Japanese is essential if you plan to live and work in Japan. While some international workplaces may use English, Japanese is still the main language used in everyday life and business. Only about 8% of Japanese people are fluent in English, and around 15 to 28% have basic conversational skills. Because of this, most companies expect you to have at least some knowledge of Japanese before applying.
The level of Japanese you’ll need depends heavily on the job you’re aiming for. If you plan to work as an English teacher, knowing Japanese is usually not required. However, in industries like customer service, hospitality, or sales, being able to hold a conversation in Japanese is often necessary. For roles in marketing, business, or corporate environments, fluent or business-level Japanese is commonly expected. In some traditional Japanese companies, they may even prefer near-native fluency.
If your Japanese isn’t strong yet, it’s worth improving it before applying for jobs. Taking classes in your home country or attending a language school in Japan can help you gain the skills you need. Having good Japanese ability not only helps you find a job faster, but it also makes daily life much easier once you’re living in Japan.
On top of that, speaking Japanese well can lead to a higher salary. Some companies might offer you lower pay if you can’t speak or understand Japanese, sometimes up to $500 less per month. So improving your Japanese isn’t just about communication—it’s also a smart way to increase your value in the job market.
Making resume
Japan adopts a distinctive approach to resume writing, differing significantly from many other countries.
Typically, two documents are required: the Rirekisho, which outlines your general information, and the Shokumu Keirekisho, detailing your work experience.
The Rirekisho follows a standardized format and includes personal details such as your name, date of birth, contact information, educational background, and employment history. It’s customary to attach a professional photo taken within the last three months. Some companies may also request information on your salary expectations and availability to start work.
The Shokumu Keirekisho provides a more detailed account of your professional experience, skills, and achievements. Unlike the Rirekisho, this document allows for a more flexible format, enabling you to highlight specific accomplishments and tailor the content to the job you’re applying for. It’s advisable to keep this document concise, ideally within two to three pages, and ensure it’s easy to read by using a consistent font and clear headings.
When preparing these documents, accuracy and attention to detail are paramount. Ensure all information is correct, free of typos, and presented neatly. While handwritten resumes were once the norm, typed resumes are now widely accepted and often preferred for their clarity.
Before submitting your resume, double-check that all sections are complete and that the information aligns with the job requirements. Tailoring your Shokumu Keirekisho to emphasize relevant experience and skills can significantly enhance your application’s impact.
Writing a cover letter
Many people dislike writing a cover letter, but just like in many other countries, it’s still common—and sometimes expected—in Japan to submit a cover letter alongside your resume.
In Japan, a cover letter is called a shibō dōki-sho , which literally means a motivation letter. It’s your chance to explain why you’re interested in the position and show how your skills align with the company’s needs.
Your cover letter should be no longer than one page and written in formal business language. Structure is important. Start with a short self-introduction and briefly mention your background. Follow this with your main qualifications or achievements that are most relevant to the job. Then, explain clearly why you want to work at that specific company and how you can contribute to their goals.
At the end of the letter, express your willingness to provide more information in an interview and thank them for taking the time to review your profile. Avoid being too casual, and make sure the tone remains polite and professional throughout.
Even when applying to international companies in Japan, a well-written cover letter can help you stand out—especially if you can show some understanding of the company’s mission or culture.
If you’re applying in English, make sure it’s grammatically correct and well-structured. If you’re writing in Japanese, consider getting help from a native speaker or using professional correction services.