10 Part-time jobs (part-time) in Japan for foreigners!
Foreigners who wish to work part-time (part time) in Japan may have questions about what kind of work is available. This article introduces recommended part-time jobs in Japan for foreigners and explains the visa requirements and how to find a part-time job.
Types of visas that allow part-time work in Japan
There are three types of Japanese visas: visas that allow part-time work without permission to engage in activities other than those permitted under the status of residence, visas that allow part-time work with permission to engage in activities other than those permitted under the status of residence, and visas that do not allow part-time work. Before looking for a part-time job, first check your status of residence.
Visa to work part-time without permission to engage in activity other than that permitted under the status of residence
Permanent resident, permanent resident, and working holiday visa holders can work part-time without permission to engage in activities other than those permitted under the status of residence.
- permanent resident
- long-term resident
- working holiday
Visa to work part-time with permission to engage in activity other than that permitted under the status of residence
Students with a college student, family visitor, or cultural activities visa can work part-time with permission to engage in activities other than those permitted under the status of residence. However, there are some restrictions, such as working up to 28 hours per week, and not being allowed to work at pachinko parlors, mahjong parlors, etc. Detailed conditions vary depending on the visa, so please check when you take a part-time job.
- studying abroad (usu. at university level)
- dependent (e.g. in a family)
- Cultural Activities
Visas that do not allow part-time work
Those on Temporary Visitor, Technical Internship and Specially Designated Skill visas are not allowed to work part-time. Technical internship and specified skills visas are for working in Japan, but they do not allow part-time work as a side job.
- short stay
- technical internship
- specific skill
How to find a part-time job in Japan
There are several ways to find a part-time job in Japan, including job sites, part-time job information magazines, and registration with recruiting services. In Japan, you may also find a sign posted in front of a store that advertises part-time job openings.
job site
Online job sites are the first tool you should use to find a part-time job because of the large number of jobs available and the ability to search. There are also many job sites for foreigners.
part-time job magazine
In Japan, various part-time job information magazines are published. There are paid magazines that can be purchased at bookstores and other places, and free magazines that can be found at stores and other places.
Placement Services
Another option is to register with a recruiting service for foreigners. However, since some recruitment services are only for permanent or temporary employees, you should register with a service that also supports part-time work.
Stickers, etc.
Japanese stores often have a sign at the entrance that says "Part-time job wanted. If the sign says "Foreigners OK," it is a good idea to apply.
How to apply for a part-time job in Japan
The usual way to apply for a part-time job in Japan is to first call a part-time job, write a resume, and have an interview. However, for registered or work-at-home jobs, you may only need to apply online.
Call your part-time job
When calling, try to speak using honorifics if possible, so as not to be rude to the person you are calling. It is also good manners to call during times when the restaurant is busy. For example, if you are calling a restaurant, it is recommended to call around 3:00 p.m. (3:00 p.m.).
Write a resume
In Japan, a resume is a one-page document that includes personal information such as address, gender, and date of birth. It is also common to write a full list of educational background and qualifications you have, even if they are not related to your part-time job.
be interviewed
At the interview, be sure to bring your resume, resident card, and anything else the company asks you to bring. It is advisable to dress and style your hair as neatly as possible, but there is no need to wear a suit if you are interviewing at a café or convenience store.
10 Part-Time Jobs in Japan for Foreigners
Here we introduce 10 part-time jobs in Japan recommended for foreigners. We will introduce 5 each for those who are not good at Japanese and 5 each for those who are good at Japanese.
Five part-time jobs for people who are not fluent in Japanese
Some may be concerned about whether they can work part-time in Japan even if their Japanese is not good, but there are many part-time jobs that do not require much Japanese. However, it is necessary to be able to converse with other Japanese staff at a minimum.
- garbage collector
- plant
- Moving Staff
- distributing tissues
- Uber-Eats
Cleaners, factory, moving staff, tissue distributors
For example, cleaners, factory workers, moving staff, and tissue distributors are part-time jobs that are easy to do even if your Japanese is not good.
Uber-Eats
Uber Eats is also a good part-time job for those who are not fluent in Japanese, but please note that they are not currently accepting applications from international students.
Five part-time jobs for those who are fluent in Japanese
Those who are fluent in Japanese have a variety of part-time work options in addition to the jobs just described.
- Language school teacher
- translation
- Convenience store and supermarket clerks
- Café and restaurant staff
- Hotel and other staff
Language school teacher/translator
Teaching language schools and translating are particularly popular part-time jobs and are rewarding because you can also make use of your native language. Many jobs also offer high salaries.
Convenience stores, restaurants, hotels, etc.
Other jobs such as working as a clerk at a convenience store or cafe, or as a hotel staff member are also recommended for those who are fluent in Japanese. However, convenience stores and supermarkets often allow you to work without perfect Japanese. On the other hand, if you want to work in a hotel or restaurant, you will need to have fairly solid Japanese language skills.
summary
It is important to know that there are restrictions on foreigners working part-time in Japan, depending on the type of visa. As for the type of part-time job, you will have more options if you are good at Japanese. However, there are various jobs that can be done even if your Japanese is not good.