Japan needs 600,000+ foreigners | Govt hiring directly | English jobs in Japan

Japan. Land of cherry blossoms, ancient traditions, and cutting-edge technology. But beneath the serene surface lies a looming crisis: a severe labor shortage that threatens the nation’s economic future. And guess what? You might just be the solution!

african-japanese-workers-needed

The Stark Reality: Japan’s Labor Crunch

Let’s face it, Japan is facing a demographic challenge. By 2040, they’re projected to need a staggering 11 million foreign workers to fill critical economic gaps. That’s roughly 647,000 new foreign workers every year! Unfortunately, current numbers are nowhere near that. Since 2018, annual foreign worker intake hasn’t even hit 200,000.

• 2019: 115,000
• 2020: 138,000
• 2021: 85,000

While there’s been a post-pandemic uptick, it’s a drop in the ocean compared to what’s needed. This dire situation has spurred the Japanese government to implement innovative strategies to attract foreign talent.

Why Japan? It’s More Than Just Sushi and Anime

Why should you consider moving to Japan?

• Cultural Proximity (If You’re in Asia): If you’re from Asia or Africa, the cultural transition might be smoother than moving to Europe or North America.
• Quality of Life: Japan offers a developed country lifestyle with a unique blend of discipline and cultural richness.
• Tourism Hotspot: Experience the beauty and fascinating traditions that draw tourists from around the world.
• Government Incentives: The government is actively making it easier for foreigners to move, offering cheap accommodation, tax breaks, and direct hiring initiatives.
• Financial Benefits: The average annual salary is around $40,000, and the cost of living is generally lower than in many Western countries.

The English Teacher Myth (And Why I Busted It)

Let’s be real, the “easy” route is teaching English. But here’s the kicker: you need a bachelor’s degree, education in English from a native English-speaking country (think UK, USA, Australia), and a TEFL certification. As a college dropout Norwegian, I was basically striking out before even stepping up to the plate.

But did that stop me? Hell no! Because there are other ways, my friend.

The Legit Ways to Live Your Japanese Dream:

1. The English Teacher Route (If You’re Not a Weeb College Dropout):

   • JET Program: The golden ticket for many. Requires a bachelor’s, English education, TEFL, and a clean bill of mental and physical health. (Sorry, coke addicts.)
   • ALT Positions: Assistant Language Teaching gigs with companies like ALTs, Joytalk, Borderlink. You’ll work alongside a Japanese English teacher.
   • Reality Check: You don’t get to pick your location. Prepare for countryside vibes, not Shibuya madness. And yes, your apartment will likely be paid for, but don’t expect a Tokyo penthouse.

2. The Working Holiday Visa (For the Degree-less and Kid-Hating):

   • If you despise children, teaching is not for you.
   • Lucky countries get this visa. Requirements are lax: 18-30 years old (check your country’s specifics!).
   • No dependents allowed. So, significant others from non-eligible countries? Sorry, not this time.
   • One-time deal. Use it wisely.
   • Moneybags Alert: You don’t have to work. Live your best year-long sabbatical.
   • Hello Work: Job assistance if you do want to work. Think part-time izakaya server or ski resort gig.
   • I highly recommend this visa, it grants a great amount of flexibility.

3. The Self-Sponsor Visa (For the Freelance Gods):

   • My personal savior before I snagged a Japanese wife.
   • You’re basically a freelancer proving you can sustain yourself.
   • Show you earned 2 million yen annually for the past two years. Remote work and sole proprietorship are your friends.
   • Proof of stable income is key. No homeless weebs allowed.
   • With the current exchange rate, 2 million yen is not that hard to achieve.
   • If you are already freelancing, this is a very good option.

Need Personalized Guidance?

If you have specific questions or would like personalized guidance tailored to your immigration needs, I offer one-on-one sessions. You can fill out the form in this post. This is a dedicated hour where we can discuss your specific situation and the countries you’re interested in. Check it out below:

work visa and travel inquiry

Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.

Name *

First

Last

Email *

How old are you? *

Age

Which European country are you planning to work in? *

What type of work visa are you applying for?

(e.g., Skilled Worker, Professional, Entrepreneur, etc.)

How long do you plan to stay and work in Europe? *

What is your highest level of education? *

country What to

Have you ever been refused a visa for any country before? *YesNo

Are you planning to relocate with your Family/Spouse?YesNo

Do you know where you need to submit your visa application? *YesNo

(e.g., embassy, consulate, online portal)?

Tell us about Yourself *

Submit

CV and Cover Letter Assistance:

Are you looking to upgrade your CV to a European standard or need a compelling cover letter? I offer CV upgrades and a special CV + cover letter combo! The links are in the description below. Contact us on Instagram or Facebook to get started.

Flight Reservations and University Admissions:

We also assist with flight reservations for visa applications and process university admissions for those looking to study abroad. Reach out to us directly using the form.

The Vending Machine Question (And Other Realities):

Let’s address the elephant in the room: the used school girl panty vending machine. Yes, they exist. But Japan is so much more than that. It’s a complex, beautiful, and sometimes baffling place.

african-japanese-workers-needed-3

My Advice? Just Do It.

If you’re serious about moving, do your research, pick your visa, and dive in. Japan is waiting, and it’s an adventure you won’t regret.

What are your Japanese dreams? Let me know in the comments!

Five Other Amazing Pathways to Move to Japan

Here are five key ways you can make your Japanese dream a reality:

1. J-Skip (Job Seeker Visa):
   • This visa allows you to be your own sponsor.
   • Requires advanced academic research, specialized technical skills, or advanced business activities.
   • You’ll need a master’s degree or 10 years of work experience and an annual income of 20 million yen, or 5 years and 40 million yen.
   • You can bring your spouse and parents.
2. Digital Nomad Visa:
   • Launched in March 2024.
   • Allows remote work in Japan for up to six months.
   • Requires proof of an annual income of 10 million yen or more.
   • You can bring your spouse and children.
3. J-Find (Recent Graduate Visa):
   • Designed for recent graduates from top-ranked universities.
   • Your university must be in the top 100 in at least two major world rankings.
   • You must have graduated within the past five years.
   • You must have 200,000 yen for living expenses.
4. Jetro (Japan External Trade Organization) Hiring:
   • Jetro connects foreign talent with Japanese companies.
   • A database of companies actively seeking foreign workers.
   • Opportunities in various fields, including sales, marketing, engineering, and more.
5. Government Job Fairs:
   • The Japanese government organizes virtual and in-person job fairs.
   • Opportunities for various nationalities.
   • Job hunting seminars and career consulting desks are often available.

Bonus: METI Internship Program

• A government-funded internship program for foreign nationals from developing countries.
• Offers in-person and online internships.
• Provides financial compensation.
• Must be under 40 years old.

Your Chance to Make a Difference

Japan’s need for foreign workers is real, and the opportunities are abundant. If you’ve ever dreamed of living in Japan, now is the time to act. With the government’s support and numerous pathways available, your journey to Japan could be closer than you think.

What are your thoughts on moving to Japan? Let us know in the comments below!