Job Hunting in Japan by Habib Imam

2.
Before You
Begin
Job Hunting
Job-Hunting Handbook 7
2. Before you begin job hunting
2-1 Why Japanese Corporations Employ

International Students
These are several main things that Japanese employers are expecting of international students.
Expected Roles
① “Borderless Professionals”
First of all, employers hire international students to secure excellent human resources without
regard to their nationality.
② “Bridge” between Japan and Foreign Markets
Japanese companies opt to hire international students when they are considering taking or
expanding their operations overseas. They see the need for the help of coordinators who work
as liaisons between their headquarters and local subsidiaries. Foreign students, who are
equipped with not just language skills (Japanese and their mother tongue) but also cultural
competence in both Japan and the target country, are expected to provide support to facilitate
smooth business development. Both employment in Japanese headquarters and direct
employment in local subsidiary (national staff) are available. For national staff, local rules and
regulations will apply.
③ Corporate Revitalization from Within
It is also a major expectation from an employer that securing human resources with different
cultural backgrounds will stimulate their organization by having international talents.
Foreigners are encouraged to provide an international perspective (e.g. expressing ideas,
work-life balance, paternity leave) to the workplace. Employers also hope that the presence of
foreign staff will energize the working environment, thus improving efficiency.
Reasons for Hiring International Students
Source: Survey on Career and Retention for International Students (Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, 2015)
Expected Skills
① Language Proficiency (JLPT N1, N2)
Most Japanese companies require foreign employees to have adequate Japanese as a very
fundamental and essential skill for engaging in their daily business operations as well as
communication among/beyond the organization. To prevent miscommunication in the daily
work, applicants are strongly encouraged to learn and speak the language well. Business-level
proficiency is generally required of regular full-time employees working in Japan. In addition to
one’s mother tongue and Japanese (at least, JLPT N2 Level. N1 is highly preferred), English is
also widely expected. Employees assigned to work at local subsidiaries must also be able to
communicate proficiently in Japanese to fulfill their responsibilities as intermediaries.
② Adaptability to Corporate Culture/Sense of Teamwork
Employers are also concerned as to whether international students have the capability to
understand the business culture in Japan, their corporate culture, and the workstyles or ways of
thinking of Japanese people as represented by “sense of teamwork.”
③ Specialized Knowledge & Practical Major
Particular industries or jobs such as manufacturing, chemical/biotechnology, R&D, marketing,
and finance, require not only international students but also domestic students to possess
specific expertise or an academic degree in a practical major.
Basic Social Skills for University Students

Basic social skills are fundamental prerequisites for all university students to work in the real
world by collaborating with people both in the workplace and in society, as has been expressed by
the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry based on an investigation of Japanese industries on
their needs and requirements for future talents.
Japanese employers examine whether their candidates possess these basic skills through various
steps and methods during their selection process.
Basic Social Skills
Action Thinking
Initiative: Working on things proactively Issue Identification: Making purpose and issues
clear by analyzing present state
Encouragement: Encouraging and involving
people so they work together Planning: Clarifying the process and preparing for
Ability to Get Things Done: Settling clear goals and execution to resolve the issue
taking action to get them done.
Creativity: Creating new value
Teamwork
Communication (Express): Conveying one’s opinion to others in a way that they can clearly understand
Communication (Listening): Listening attentively to others to understand them correctly
Flexibility: Accepting differences with others’ opinions with consideration for their standpoints
Ability to Grasp Situation: Understanding correctly about the relationship with other people and things
Discipline: Following social rules and keeping promises made to others
Stress Control Ability: Managing one’s stress by finding and dealing with its source
TOP 10 Evaluation Points by Employers
Source: Japan Business Federation November 22, 2018
2-2 Characteristics of Job Hunting in Japan

What is important for international students who are interested in seeking employment in Japan is
to understand what job hunting in Japan is all about and the importance of acting independently.
① Mass Recruitment of New Graduates for Entry in April

The term “recruitment of new graduates (shin-sotsu saiyo)” refers to the employment of people
who graduated recently from university and who are seeking employment for the first time. It is
the most unique part of employment in Japan that employers all hire a group of new graduates
simultaneously on April 1st on an annually basis, and all run their selection procedures within
almost the same timeline. Based on that, job-hunting activities are usually started earlier in
Japan than overseas, so students need to be well aware of timelines and prepare for them whilst
maintain a balance with academic life.
Please refer to “3 Job-Hunting Schedule (☞P. 17)” for the general timeline.
② Various Selection Methods, Multiple Stages

Employers require applicants to undergo various selection processes, not simply job interviews
but also written examinations, online tests, aptitude tests, Japanese essays, group interviews and
role-play tests or “group discussions.” Students may experience a relatively long period of
selection procedures due to the need to go through such multiple stages of examinations, and of
course to prepare for them.
Please refer to “4 Work to Be Done (☞P. 23)” for more information about how to prepare for
each selection stage.
③ “Potentiality-based Recruitment,” Experience Matters Less

In principle, new graduates are employed for a lifelong career. Japanese companies will provide
them with training and an opportunity to try out different types of work so that they will become
future leaders. Based on that premise, companies hire new graduates based upon predictions of
their long-term potential. This is known as “Potentiality-based Recruitment (Potential-saiyo in
Japanese). Please note that Japanese recruitment differs from that of Europe and the United
States, where one is employed to fulfill a specific position or role. Based on that, especially
large employers in Japan, usually do not offer a particular position during the recruitment
process.
Quick Comparison on Major Differences between Job Hunting in Japan and Overseas:
■ Membership-based Employment
This style of employment does not limit duties, place of work or working hours. People are
usually evaluated according to their ability to perform all duties as generalists.
■ Job-based Employment
This style of employment limits duties and place of work, and the job description is clearly
defined and appropiate capabilities are evaluated in accordance with skill levels as specialists.
2-3 Career Advancement in Japanese Companies

In addition to understanding the major characteristics of the job-hunting system in Japan and
expectations of international students from employers, it is also important to think about your
career and life plan so as to make your decision on your first employment as meaningful for your
future as possible. Since there are various ways for companies to utilize international human
resources in their business, it is recommended that you research how international human
resources are advancing their careers in the company/industry in which you are interested.
The following are very typical career examples of foreign employees in Japanese companies.
2-4 The Importance of Japanese Language Skill

Japanese Language Proficiency Required by Companies
International students require a high level of reading, listening, writing and speaking ability in
Japanese. Especially—with the exception of blue-collar positions—companies are looking for a
business-level of Japanese ability sufficient for frequent back-and-forth communication with
clients as well as colleagues.
In fact, companies’ expectations of Japanese language proficiency at the timing of joining the
company are much higher than that during job hunting.
Source: DISCO Career Research December 2019

https://www.disc.co.jp/wp/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/2019kigyou-global-report.pdf
Japanese Language at Selection

About 90% of companies use the Japanese language in selecting international students, especially
during interviews.
Language at selection
All companies Less than 300 employees 300-900 employees More than 1000
employees
Japanese w/o Japanese at some parts w/o Japanese at most parts w/o Japanese all parts
Source: DISCO Career Research December 2019

https://www.disc.co.jp/wp/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/2019kigyou-global-report.pdf
2-5 Visa Matters

Continuing Job-Hunting Activities after Graduation
■ Degree Seeking Students
International students who have graduated and are planning to continue job hunting in Japan need
to change their status of residence to “Designated Activities Visa” (to remain in Japan for job
hunting). To change the visa status, you need to submit a recommendation letter from the
University, and other necessary documents to the Immigration Bureau. A Designated Activities
Visa is valid for six months and can be renewed only once for another six months (maximum of
one year after graduation).
Before graduation After graduation (working in Japan)
College student visa Designated activities visa
The Career Center will issue a recommendation letter to Waseda University graduates who have
fulfilled the following requirements. Make sure to apply BEFORE you graduate.
Requirements before Applying for a Recommendation Letter

1. Completion of Post-Graduation Plans (☞P. 67)
2. Keep records of your activities (such as schedule) and retain written correspondence such as
announcements and e-mails from companies to attach to the report
3. Submission of designated application form verifying your job-seeking activities to the Career
Center
△ ！ Caution
Applicable only to job-seeking undergraduate/graduate students who have graduated or earned a
degree from Waseda University (正規生). Non-degree students, such as students studying at
Waseda University for learning Japanese, exchange students, and research students, are not
eligible.
■ Non-Degree Students
The "College Student" status of residence is valid only during your enrollment. Please be sure to
leave the country immediately after graduation because the "College Student" status will
terminate. However, a one-month grace period is allowed for preparations. If you need to extend
your stay for an unavoidable reason for more than one month, please inquire directly to the
Immigration Bureau.
* Non-Degree Students
Students studying at Waseda University to learn Japanese, exchange students, and research
students.
Even though the date is still

valid, you will not able to use it
after the program is complete.
As for the necessary documents to get the recommendation letter and the procedure for changing
visa status, please refer to our official website in addition to checking the Immigration Bureau
Official Website.
Career Center Website in English
2-6 Organizations and Agencies

Supporting Job Hunting
Job information websites in Japan include those operated using advertising revenue from
companies, and those operated by public organizations such as the Tokyo Employment Service
Center for Foreigners and business organizations. Many companies accept entries from the
applicants through such websites.
Leading job-hunting websites

Mynavi ・Able to apply to multiple companies by registering
Career-tasu ・Once registered on the website, you will receive information
job hunting regarding career-related matters.
Rikunabi ・ You need to select the website you use depending on
Asagaku navi companies.
Gaishishukatsu.com
Job-hunting websites for international students, bilinguals
Career Forum Net ・Able to search job information in English
(CFN) ・Able to find multinational companies
Glassdoor
Agencies, scouting
OfferBox
・Receive offers from companies that are interested in you
Mynavi Global Agent
・Offers will not always come from companies you are interested
in.
Public institutions
Tokyo Employment ・Offer various services included individual consultation services
Service Center for free.
for Foreigners
SNS
LinkedIn ・Able to gather information on persons whom you want to know
and find common points between you and them easily.
△ ！ Caution
Take precautions when registering personal details on any of the above websites.
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Chapter 2. Job Hunting in Japan
Job hunting in Japan is very unique. You can hardly find a similar style of job hunting in any other country. Japanese companies recruit international
students using the same quota and recruiting process as Japanese students. In other words, foreign students must compete with their Japanese
counterparts for positions. In many cases, recruitment activities for foreign-affiliated companies in Japan are almost the same as those for Japanese
companies. Therefore, in Japan, you must find a job under the domestic rules, regardless of whether you are applying to a Japanese or foreign-affiliated
company.
Characteristics of Job Hunting in Japan
Bulk Hiring of Recent Graduates
The term "new graduate hiring" refers to hiring for people who have graduated from undergraduate, graduate, or vocational schools and are starting work
for the first time. This Japanese way of bulk hiring or "Shinsotsu-saiyo," is quite unique. Companies want to recruit students who anticipate graduating in
the following years, while they are still in school.
Starting Work in April
While September enrollment is the norm in many countries around the world, Japanese universities and vocational schools usually enroll in April and
graduate in March. Therefore, in Japan, students who graduate in March will enter companies and start working on April 1, the first day of the following
month.
Job Hunting Schedule
Many companies in Japan follow the same recruiting schedule. In addition, job hunting in Japan starts earlier than in many other countries. As of 2019, job
hunting starts on March 1 every year by students who belong to the year prior to the final grade, including the third year of their bachelor's course, first
year of their master's course, or second year of their PhD course respectively. The recruiting season lasts rather long and comes to an end four months
later in the middle of June.
Recruitment Examinations
Many Japanese companies require students to take written exams in mathematics, Japanese, English, etc. They also often require a profile-sheet with a
statement written in Japanese. For interviews, a minimum of three interviews of various types will be conducted at each company.
https://www.studyinjapan.go.jp/en/job/employment/general-info/recruit.html?is_create_pdf=1 1/3
Hiring Criteria for Japanese Companies
Overseas and Japanese companies tend to hire their staff according to different hiring standards. Many overseas companies have introduced a "merit-
based pay system" in which promotions and salary increases are based on a person's ability, work results, and performance, and they look for people who
can make an immediate impact upon hiring. In such a selection process, the student's major at their university, as well as expertise and skills obtained
during internships, etc. can make the difference between whether they are chosen for the position or not.
Meanwhile, as Japanese companies are accustomed to taking the time to provide employees with training necessary for their job, they tend to recruit
promising students with good qualifications, who are likely to contribute to the company in the long-run. The chart below shows data based on employers'
responses regarding key characteristics they look for when recruiting potential employees. Japanese companies regard characteristics such as potential
communication ability, independence and cooperativeness as more important than academic scores, expertise in a certain field, and foreign language
ability.
Source: Japan Business Federation "Questionnaire Survey on New Graduate Recruitment in 2018"
"Potentiality-hiring"
"Potentiality" originally indicates a capacity for development and future success. "Potentiality-hiring" is a way of recruiting by attaching greater value to an
applicant's potential capability and future possibility of being successful, even if they may not be qualified in terms of skills and knowledge to fully
contribute to the company at that particular moment. Japanese companies tend to hire people who are expected to be active in the future, rather than
people who can be immediately effective, because they have a solid training system in place after joining the company.
Employment System of Japanese Companies
Japanese companies mainly conform to membership-type employment. This kind of employment does not specify any job category, work place or working
hours and requires employees to be flexible so that they can deal with various kinds of tasks. The main feature of the system is to evaluate the ability to
handle all duties as a generalist.
These companies hire a number of employees through a unified recruiting campaign every year, then let them get a sense of the company as well as
acquire necessary knowledge during the initial "on-the-job training" period along with various training sessions for employees to gain further knowledge
and skills. Because the job category and place of work are not specified, a company can reassign an employee based on the company's circumstances.
As a result, an employee may not be able to be placed in their position or location of choice. This kind of working style is recorded as "Sogo-shoku" or
"main career track" on recruitment campaign documents.
Among overseas countries, job-type employment is mainstream. Job-type employment is a form of employment in which the duties and work location are
limited. It is characterized by clear job requirements and primarily evaluates the specialist's ability to perform the job. Continued employment and benefits
depend on the duration of work and ability to perform. Companies can secure highly specialized and talented workers, but because they contract with
workers within a specific job scope, if the job is no longer needed due to changes in the company's business conditions or policies, the contract may be
terminated without reassignment, meaning the worker is at risk of losing their job.
To Chapter 3. Job Hunting Schedule
(Supervised by Manabu Kubota,
Visiting Researcher of JASSO)
＜Reference＞
・ Chapter 1. Employment Environment in Japan

・ Chapter 2. Job Hunting in Japan
・ Chapter 3. Job Hunting Schedule
・ Chapter 4. Employment Examinations
・ Chapter 5. Status of Residence
Copyright © JASSO. All rights reserved.
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Chapter 3. Job Hunting Schedule
Job Hunting Schedule
In Japan, students who are about to graduate are recruited in bulk and employment examinations are conducted while they are still in school. In addition,
many companies use the same hiring schedule. Therefore, the timing for hiring is once a year, so if you miss the hiring season, it will be difficult to find a
job.
As of 2021, job hunting starts on March 1 every year by students who belong to the year prior to the final grade, including the third year of their bachelor's
course, first year of their master's course, or second year of their PhD course respectively. The recruiting season comes to an end four months later in the
middle of June. Job hunting in Japan is characterized by starting early and taking as long as four months.
(Schedule) example: expected to graduate in March 2022 or September 2021
Please conduct job hunting while checking when you will join the company to start working.
2021 2021 2021 2021 2021 2021 2021 2021 2021 2021 2022
Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec Jan
Entry period Some companies still recruit after October, so students who did
not find a job are able to continue job hunting.

Job fairs/Company introduction
Entry sheet (resume) submission
Aptitude tests / Written tests
Interviews
Preliminary offer of employment
※The time of joining company could be April, 2022 for the students who are expected to graduate in September, 2021.
【Job Hunting Procedures and Exams】
◆Entry period (March through May)
https://www.studyinjapan.go.jp/en/job/employment/general-info/schedule.html?is_create_pdf=1 1/3
Here, the word "entry" means requesting company materials and information. Upon entry, the company will send recruiting information, its company profile
and the schedule of meetings by e-mail, postal mail, and by other means. Entries can be made through employment information websites (websites that
post information on job openings and job fairs), company websites, and company introductions.
◆Job Fairs / Company Introductions (March through May)
Soon after the job hunting season has started, you will find many job fairs and company introduction opportunities. By attending these job fairs and
company introductions, you can obtain detailed information about companies by listening to explanations not published on their websites and by asking
questions to hiring managers. Company introductions can be divided into two categories. One is organized solely by a company, while the other is a
consolidated fair carried out by multiple companies. Try to understand the difference so that you can make good use of both.
◆Entry Sheet Submission (March through June)
Submission of an entry-sheet or an official application for an exam is the first step you must take in registering for a company's recruitment exam.
Submission itself also means an official paper-based exam at the same time.
◆Aptitude Tests / Written Tests (March through June)
Aptitude tests and written examinations are conducted to ascertain whether students have reached a certain level of intellectual and academic ability, and
whether they possess the thinking and judgment skills, work speed, processing ability, and accuracy required for the job. For companies with numerous
applicants, these tests are used as efficient tools for selection.
◆Interviews (June or later)
It is common for a company to have three rounds of interviews. Companies conduct multiple interviews because they want staff members of various
positions to check the applicant's personality and way of thinking in order to ascertain if they are really suitable for the company.
◆Preliminary Offers of Employment / "Naitei" (June or later)
After the final selection, you can get a "Nai-naitei," the first preliminary offer of employment which informs you of the company's intention to employ you.
This tentative notice of acceptance often comes to you by phone. After the call, a notice of acceptance document will be sent to you. In the event that you
have already received an offer from a different company or you do not intend to work for the company, politely inform the company as soon as possible. In
October, you will receive an official "Naitei," the official offer of employment.
【Preparation for Job Hunting】
◆Self-analysis
Self-analysis means asking yourself again about your strengths and weaknesses, likes and dislikes, specialties and abilities, interests, future dreams,
values, and outlook on life, and then organizing them. This preparation is done in order to find a job that you are suited for or want to do, and to present
yourself well in entry sheets and interviews.
◆Research industries and companies
"Gyokai" refers to the categorization of industries by their activities. The first step to finding out whether a company is suitable for you is to do research on
industries and companies. This research can help you discover a suitable company and industry and to clearly identify your goals in preparation for filling
out your entry sheet and answering questions during job interviews. This will also help you think about your own long-term vision for your career and a
possible image of the person you want to become as you balance your future job and life.
◆ Advice from alumni
Prepare to visit alumni and acquaintances who work at companies you are interested in to gather information that you cannot find on websites. By asking
questions you would normally be reluctant to ask in a company's official information session, you can obtain a deeper understanding about companies you
would like to work for.
◆Entry sheet and interview preparation
Making an entry-sheet is part of the overall recruitment procedure and also serves as practice for upcoming interviews.
For details on how to prepare, see Chapter 4. Employment Examinations.
＜Reference＞

9/15/2023 Chapter 4. Employment Examinations｜Employment in Japan｜Job & Career in Japan｜Study in Japan Official Website
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Chapter 4. Employment Examinations
Employment Examinations
Document-based exams, written examinations and interviews are often used as part of an employment exam. Preparations must be made prior to taking
the examinations, and you must also review certain rules and manners beforehand. This chapter will provide you with information regarding the exams.
Document-based Examinations
Document-based exams make up the initial phase of job hunting activities. The entry sheet is one of these documents. By submitting an entry sheet, you
make a formal application to take the employment exam. The entry sheet is very unique in the following points. One is the fact that companies are
adopting different test formats. Another is short Japanese writing sections where you have to appeal what you did during your school life, why you would
like to enter the company, and so on. Many foreign students who experienced job hunting activities in Japan often confess the entry sheet was the
toughest task. In this section, you have to answer the company's provided questions with a set number of Japanese characters (around 200 to 400).
【Sample Entry Sheet Questions】
-Describe your personality using a suitable food in 400 characters. (Food industry)
-How will you contribute to this company after being accepted? (Trading company)
-Describe why you would be indispensable to our company by referring to what you did your best during your school-life. (Machinery)
-Describe what you have learned from your own experience of failure. (Trading company
-If you had 300 million Japanese yen, what would you do to promote world peace? (Information/Communications)
Preparing for Document-based Examinations
https://www.studyinjapan.go.jp/en/job/employment/general-info/examinations.html?is_create_pdf=1 1/4
In terms of measures for the document-based examination, what companies want to see in your essay is how you have thought and acted in your past
activities, and how you think about the future. In order to respond to these matters, you have to look back on your personality and past experiences. Of
course, you have to research the company and think about the reason why you would like to work for them.
Writing in Japanese takes some time. In order to balance school research and other activities, prepare your essay early and gradually, and proofread it
while consulting with your school's career support department.
Written Examinations
Written examinations are conducted to ascertain whether students have reached a certain level of intellectual and academic ability, and whether they
possess the thinking and judgment skills, work speed, processing ability, and accuracy required for the job. When there are numerous applicants, these
tests are used as efficient tools for selection.
As paper exams are basically carried out in Japanese, applicants must have a high level of Japanese comprehension.
Though some companies offer original tests, most of them use ready-to-use exams developed by expert companies.
Exams generally include an aptitude test, general knowledge test, and Japanese writing or short essay. Generally speaking, many companies adopt
various aptitude tests. There are a variety of aptitude tests, but they include language-related questions in Japanese and English, as well as math-related
questions.
Although aptitude tests in Japanese and English or mathematics are not particularly difficult, time is limited. You have to train yourself in advance to
answer many questions correctly in a short time.
【Samples (SPI3)】
(1) Choose the phrase that uses the underlined word with the closest meaning.
(Ex.) 無理がきかない
① 見通しがきく ② 薬がきく ③ 先生にきく ④ 気がきく ⑤ 音楽をきく
(2) There are 200 grams of water with a salt concentration of 3% and 300 grams of water with 4% concentration. How much will the concentration be after
mixed?
① 2.6％ ② 3.6％ ③ 4.6％ ④ 5.6％ ⑤ 6.6％
Answers) (1) ① (2) ②3.6%
Preparations for Written Examinations
The first step is to find out what types of aptitude tests are used by the companies to which you are applying. As for big companies, you can find past
exams from "Kaisha shikiho" (The Japan Company Handbook) or aptitude test preparation books. For smaller companies, you may find past records by
checking graduates' reports at your school's career center.
After obtaining information about your company's test, try to familiarize yourself with the patterns of aptitude tests and how to solve the problems. It is
necessary to know and become familiar with the trends in the types of tests and the types of questions that will be asked. Practice with test preparation
books sold at bookstores as well as questions you find online.
Finally, try to get used to the time limit. What is difficult about an aptitude test is solving many questions in a short amount of time. As you have to solve
questions efficiently, it is very important to always simulate the actual time span and get used to the limit even during a practice test.
Interviews
It is common for a company to have three rounds of interviews.
Companies conduct multiple interviews because they want staff members of various positions to check the applicant's personality and way of thinking in
order to ascertain if they are really suitable for the company.
There are several types of job interviews in Japan. The three types commonly adopted by most companies include group discussions, group interviews,
and individual interviews.
【Sample Questions】
-Have you ever used our company's products? What do you think of them?
-What do you expect from a company and a job?
-Tell me why you came to study in Japan. Why would you like to work for a Japanese company?
-How long do you expect to work in Japan?
【Group Discussions】
In group discussions, students are to discuss a given theme in groups of 4 to 6 people.
Interviewers will evaluate the situation objectively. The purpose of this kind of interview is to check how an individual performs in a group.
【Group Interviews】
Group interviews are carried out by a company with many applicants in order to bring down the number of candidates to a reasonable number so that
individual interviews can be done.
This kind of interview is different from an individual interview and is characterized by a shorter time to respond, as well as comparison with other
candidates. Interviewers will ask questions based on candidates' previously-submitted entry-sheets and personal histories, which each interviewee will
answer.
【Individual Interviews】
Unlike group interviews, more time is spent with each individual in order to understand their characteristics.
The interviewer is checking not only your answers to questions, but also your demeanor, posture, facial expressions, and even the way you speak.
Based on the entry sheet and resume, the interviewer will ask questions to the applicant.
At first, you will be asked about the content of your resume or entry sheet, and then you will be asked questions for more details.
Preparing for Interviews
During the interview, you will be asked to provide a more detailed explanation of what you have described in your entry sheet. So prepare for questions
that are highly likely to be asked. In order to express yourself effectively in a short time, explanations should be easily understandable.
Train yourself to start with your conclusion, followed by certain episodes and a summary. You can record your speech and practice with a mobile phone.
Check your eye contact, speaking mannerisms and what you talked about, then work on improving these points! It is also important to practice with your
friends or staff at your school's career center, who can act as the interviewer during a simulation.
To Chapter 5. Status of Residence
＜Reference＞

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Chapter 5. Status of Residence
In the event that an international student studying in Japan decides to find a job in Japan, they must change the status of their status of residence from
Student to a permit that allows them to work.
Status of Residence Types
① Visa statuses that allow work regardless of occupation or industry type

Permanent Resident, Spouse of a Japanese Citizen, Spouse of a Permanent Resident, and Long-term Resident
② Visa statuses allowing work for a given range of occupations, industry types, and types of work
Highly Skilled Professional, Professor, Artist, Religious Activities, Journalist, Business Manager, Legal/Accounting Services, Medical Services, Researcher,
Instructor, Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services, Intra-Company Transferee, Entertainer, Skilled Worker, Care Worker, and Specified
Skilled Worker
* The Highly Skilled Professional visa status is targeted towards those who have above the required total score (points) for academic history, employment
history, and annual income combined
③ Work visa status based on the type of work: Designated Activities

Designated Activities
◆Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services
In 2018, approximately 90% of international students who were allowed a change to their visa status fell into the Engineer/Specialist in
Humanities/International Services category.
【Types of activities】
Activities and/or duties at industries that require knowledge or abilities from those who studied courses in the science, engineering, and other fields in the
natural sciences (STEM fields), or law, economics, sociology, and humanities approved in the contracts of Japan's public and private institutions
(companies)
【Main Occupations】
Accountant, Financial Analyst, HR (Human Resources), Legal Business, Planning, Product Development, Design, Marketing, Public Relations (PR),
Advertisement, Interpreter, Translator, Teacher and Instructor of Foreign Language, Industrial/Manufacturing Technology, Research and Development,
Engineer, Programmer, Architectural Design, System Administration, etc.
https://www.studyinjapan.go.jp/en/job/employment/general-info/status.html?is_create_pdf=1 1/4
【Requirements/Criteria】
① The candidate must be a university graduate who majored in a subject relevant to the work they will be doing in their industry of choice, or they must
have completed an education equivalent to the former. Or, the candidate may have completed a specialized curriculum at a vocational school in Japan
(the candidate's completion of the program should be based on the requirements set by the Minister of Justice). Or, the candidate may have engaged in
over 10 years of practical experience relevant to their chosen industry (including acquiring applicable skills/knowledge through a relevant major at their
university, technical college, high school (or the equivalent), or a vocational school program).
In the event that the candidate aims to work at an industry requiring skills or knowledge related to information processing, the candidate must pass the
information processing skills examination administered by the Minister of Justice. If the candidate has already obtained relevant qualifications, there is no
need to take the test.
② If the candidate aims to work for an industry that follows the customs and principles of a foreign culture and the work involves translation, interpretation,
foreign language instruction, public relations, advertising and/or overseas transactions, fashion or interior design, product development, etc., then the
candidate must have at least three years of practical experience related to the industry. However, if the candidate is a university graduate who plans to
work in an industry related to translation, interpretation or foreign language instruction, then practical experience is not necessary.
③ Foreigners must receive remuneration that is equivalent to or above that of what a Japanese citizen would receive from the company.
【Period of Stay】
5 years, 3 years, 1 year, or 3 months *Renewable
* Once a candidate has graduated from university, they can work in translation, interpretation, or instruction of their native language regardless of their
major or specialization at their university or work experience.
* In terms of computer-related skills, if candidates passed the information processing skills examination administered by the Minister of Justice or have the
necessary qualifications, they can engage in related work regardless of what they majored in at their university.
◆Points regarding the Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services visa status
Please see the following 4 points of inspection for those who want to change their status of residence:
① Whether the individual possesses the appropriate skills/knowledge based on their academic history (their major, research, etc.) or other personal history
and experiences
② Whether the individual can effectively use their own skills/knowledge to contribute to the work they are interested in
③ Whether the individual's benefits and compensation (remuneration) are appropriate
④ Whether the hiring company's scale and past achievements reflect stability and a potential for long-term employment, as well as whether the company
provides opportunities for the applicant to make full use of their skills and experience.
*For more information, see "Guidelines for Changing the Status of Residence of International Students to Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International
Services"(JP)
◆Specialized Skilled Worker
In response to serious labor shortages, this system to accept foreign nationals with a certain level of expertise and skills who are ready to work
immediately began in April 2019. The system is targeted towards foreign workers who plan to work for industries seeking individuals with expertise or
experience in specific fields (Bringing family members along is generally not permitted).
【Specific industry sectors】
The following 14 industry sectors are included: Care Worker; Building Cleaning Management; Machine Parts & Tooling Industries; Industrial Machinery
Industry; Electric, Electronics and Information Industries; Construction Industry; Shipbuilding and Ship Machinery Industry; Automobile Repair and
Maintenance; Aviation Industry; Accommodation Industry; Agriculture, Fishery and Aquaculture, Manufacture of Food and Beverages, Food Service
Industry
* There are 2 types of specialized skilled worker visa, which are the "Specified Skills No. 1" visa and "Specified Skills No. 2" visa. The "Specified Skills No.
2" visa is targeted towards foreign nationals who plan to work for industries seeking individuals with mastery in specific fields.
【Types of Activities】
Activities specified by employment contracts of Japanese public and private institution (company) sectors designated by the Ministry of Justice in Japan
(the Ministry of Justice will determine the industry sectors that are qualified to hire foreign nationals based on their difficulties with recruiting personnel).
Industries with activities that require the appropriate degree of knowledge or experience determined by the Ministry of Justice are permitted.
The specific duties or responsibilities vary based on the particular industry sector.
Accommodation services: industries that provide services including reception, planning, public relations, customer service as well as restaurant services at
the lodging facility. Along with the normal responsibilities that come with these positions, foreign nationals may also be given other tasks Japanese citizens
in these sectors would normally engage in (i.e. sales/marketing within the lodging facility, inspection of furniture/equipment in the lodging facility) in addition
to their regular work at the facility.
Food service industry: all food-related services (cooking, customer service, business management)
Please visit the site below to find information on other industry sectors.
（http://www.moj.go.jp/content/001290040.pdf）
・ Be at least 18 years of age

・ Achieve a passing score on both the technical skills test (e.g. accommodation: accommodation skills assessment test, food services: food service
industry skills assessment test) and Japanese language examination
・ Be a Specified Skills No. 1 visa holder that has lived in Japan for no more than 5 years
・ No security deposit has been collected or a contract that provides for a penalty fee has been signed
・ If there are certain fees the employee must pay, they must fully understand the conditions, etc.
・ Receive remuneration equivalent to or greater than the remuneration received by Japanese nationals
Specified Skilled (i): renewable every 1 year, 6 months, or 4 months (up to 5 years in total)
Specified Skilled (ii): renewable every 3 years, 1 year, or 6 months
* Please click here to see an overview of the system in a new window.
◆ Designated Activities (Notification No. 46: Graduates of Japanese Universities)
Up until recently, there were no work-specific visas permitting "Status of Residence" holders to work in service industries such as restaurants and retail
stores, as well as manufacturing industries. However, recently there has been a growth in the number of enterprises expressing a need for inbound
workers. Additionally, these companies believe that bilingual/multilingual employees could act as a bridge between Japanese employees and their foreign
employees who lack sufficient Japanese language skills. Thus, there has been a greater need across various industries to hire foreign nationals that are
university and graduate school graduates who possess a wide range of knowledge and sophisticated linguistic ability.
In this regard, it is anticipated that international students who graduated from Japanese universities have acquired knowledge and practical abilities, in
addition to Japanese language skills, that they can put to good use in their industry. This situation has been officially approved and the candidate is
permitted to work under the "Status of Residence 'Designated Activities No. 46'" visa status.
【Types of Activities】
A foreign national is permitted to work in a wide range of industries under the condition that he/she has graduated from a public or private Japanese
university and acquired a wide range of knowledge and practical abilities, in addition to a high level of Japanese.
However, they are not permitted to engage in work that is legally required to be performed by a qualified person (work that requires a business monopoly
qualification) or in work related to the entertainment industry.
・ Those employed by a restaurant and serve foreign customers at the restaurant while also serving as interpreters (This also includes serving Japanese
customers).
*Doing work that solely involves washing dishes in the kitchen or cleaning is not permitted.
・ Those providing customer service and sales work for foreign customers at retail stores, in addition to stocking and product planning, etc., while also
serving as interpreters (This also includes customer service and sales work for Japanese customers).
*Doing work that solely involves putting products out on display or cleaning the store is not permitted.
・ Those working at a hotel or Japanese inn (ryokan): creating and/or updating pages for the website in foreign languages, doing translation work for
foreign customers, and managing foreign bell staff or doormen who provide customer service (This also includes serving Japanese customers).
*Doing work that solely involves cleaning the guest rooms is not permitted.
・ This system applies only to foreign nationals who graduated from four-year Japanese universities or from Japanese graduate schools. It does not apply
to graduates of junior colleges or vocational schools.
・ Foreign nationals must have passed the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) N1 or scored above 480 on the Business Japanese Test (BJT).
*Individuals who majored in "Japanese" at their university or graduate school either in Japan or in their university overseas are considered to have met
the Japanese language requirement (In addition, individuals who majored in "Japanese" at their university or graduate school need to graduate from
Japanese university or graduate school as well).
・ Foreign nationals must receive remuneration equivalent to or above the amount that a Japanese citizen would receive, etc.
5 years, 3 years, 1 year, 6 months, or 3 months * Renewable
＜Reference＞


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2.

2-1 Why Japanese Corporations Employ

Reasons for Hiring International Students

Basic Social Skills for University Students

Basic Social Skills

TOP 10 Evaluation Points by Employers

Source: Japan Business Federation November 22, 2018

2-2 Characteristics of Job Hunting in Japan

① Mass Recruitment of New Graduates for Entry in April

② Various Selection Methods, Multiple Stages

③ “Potentiality-based Recruitment,” Experience Matters Less

2-3 Career Advancement in Japanese Companies

2-4 The Importance of Japanese Language Skill

Source: DISCO Career Research December 2019

Japanese Language at Selection

Source: DISCO Career Research December 2019

2-5 Visa Matters

Before graduation After graduation (working in Japan)

College student visa Designated activities visa

Requirements before Applying for a Recommendation Letter

Even though the date is still

Career Center Website in English

2-6 Organizations and Agencies

Leading job-hunting websites

Custom Search Search

Text Size Middle Large Language English 

CONTACT PDF for print

Chapter 2. Job Hunting in Japan

Characteristics of Job Hunting in Japan

Bulk Hiring of Recent Graduates

Starting Work in April

Job Hunting Schedule

Hiring Criteria for Japanese Companies

Employment System of Japanese Companies

To Chapter 3. Job Hunting Schedule

(Supervised by Manabu Kubota,

Visiting Researcher of JASSO)

・ Chapter 1. Employment Environment in Japan

Copyright © JASSO. All rights reserved.

Custom Search Search

Text Size Middle Large Language English 

CONTACT PDF for print

Chapter 3. Job Hunting Schedule

Job Hunting Schedule

(Schedule) example: expected to graduate in March 2022 or September 2021

not find a job are able to continue job hunting.

Entry sheet (resume) submission

Aptitude tests / Written tests

Preliminary offer of employment

【Job Hunting Procedures and Exams】

◆Entry period (March through May)

◆Job Fairs / Company Introductions (March through May)

◆Entry Sheet Submission (March through June)

◆Aptitude Tests / Written Tests (March through June)

◆Interviews (June or later)

◆Preliminary Offers of Employment / "Naitei" (June or later)

【Preparation for Job Hunting】

◆Research industries and companies