For many students, working part-time whilst studying is both appealing and necessary. Japan is no exception, with approximately 67% of its international students working part-time. Whether you are searching for work to financially support yourself, forge new connections or gain work experience for your resume, there is a job for you! Here's everything you need to know to get started.

Requirements for Working as a Student in Japan

To legally work part-time in Japan as an international student, you must:

• Hold a valid student visa

• Be at least 18 years old

• Obtain a work permit, officially known as the Application for Permission to Engage in Activity Other than that Permitted Under the Status of Residence Previously Granted

You can download and complete this application before arriving in Japan. Once completed, you can submit it online, at the airport immigration counter, or at your local immigration office after arriving in Japan. This permit is essential in order to legally work. Working without this permit is a direct violation of student visa conditions and may result in serious consequences.

Where to Find Part-Time Jobs

Japan has a variety of job opportunities for international students, and there are several effective ways to find them:

• Job search websites such as Jobs in Japan, Daijob.com and GaijinPot Jobs

• Facebook groups and online communities for foreigners living in Japan

• University career offices or bulletin boards on campus

• University groups and online communities for students living in Japan

What Jobs Can You Do?

Although many jobs exist for students, as an international student there are restrictions on which roles you may undertake as per your work permit. Appropriate part-time jobs include:

• English teaching or tutoring

• Restaurants

• Retail and convenience stores

• Hospitality (hotels, cafes, etc.)

• Translation and interpreting

• Freelance or creative work (writing, design, etc.)

International students are not permitted to work in any industry relating to adult entertainment. Part-time jobs that are strictly off-limits include:

• Nightclubs

• Bars

• Massage parlors

• Video game arcades (inclusive of pachinkos)

Even if you're not directly involved in adult services, simply working in the same venue is considered illegal. Always double-check with your school or immigration office if you're unsure about a role as violations can result in substantial fines and even deportation.

Do I Need to Speak Japanese?

The good news is, you don't need to be fluent in Japanese to find part-time work. However, being able to understand or speak Japanese will vastly expand the type of jobs you could apply for. If you not proficient or still learning the language, you can apply for positions that require minimal Japanese, such as:

• English tutoring

• Jobs in foreign-run companies

• Certain retail or kitchen roles that don’t involve customer interaction

How Many Hours Can You Work?

As an international student in working part-time in Japan, you are legally allowed to work:

• Up to 28 hours per week during school semesters

• Up to 40 hours per week during university holidays

It’s important not to exceed these limits as that would be a violation of your visa and may result in severe consequences.

How Much Can I Earn?

Japan has a minimum wage policy that varies by prefecture. For example:

• Tokyo has one of the highest minimum wages

• Okinawa has one of the lowest minimum wages

On average, students can expect to earn around ¥1,100/hour (approx. $7.35 USD). If you work the maximum 28 hours per week, you could earn up to $830 USD per month, which can help significantly in covering living expenses such as food, and transport.

The Benefits of Working While Studying

While a part-time job may not cover your full tuition, it can make a real difference in managing your expenses. In addition, taking up part-time jobs also enable you to:

• Make new friends

• Build your resume with international work experience

• Improve your Japanese language skills

• Deepen your understanding of Japanese culture and workplace etiquette

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you're planning to study in Japan and want to explore part-time work opportunities, preparation is key. Make sure you meet the visa requirements and understand what jobs are available as an international student.

If you’d like to learn more about how YOU can study abroad in Japan, Flying Chalks is here to help! From securing a spot for you at your desired school to settling your Student VISA and accommodation, our education experts will help you free-of-charge from start to finish, without you needing to worry! 

Sign up now for a Free Consultation by filling up the Enquiry form above.