Part-Time Jobs in Japan: Flexible Work for Students & Expats

Japan provides a wide range of part-time job opportunities specifically suited to students and expats worldwide, adjusted for language abilities and available working hours. Start by determining preferred hours and the level of interaction desired, then select a fitting role.

Japan’s job market has become increasingly accessible for foreign nationals due to a shrinking workforce and high demand in fields like technology, healthcare, and education. 

This change has expanded options for part-time positions. Below are key part-time job categories available to foreign students, general pay rates, and roles restricted under Japanese law.

Part-Time Jobs in Japan: Language Skills and Legal Requirements

While not mandatory for every role, Japanese language skills significantly increase the chances of finding part-time work in Japan. 

Fields like IT and engineering may focus more on technical skills, but most industries, especially customer service, retail, and hospitality, expect Japanese proficiency for daily interactions and smoother adaptation to the local work culture. 

Basic to intermediate Japanese is often essential for roles requiring frequent communication with customers or coworkers.

Visa and Work Permits for Part-Time Jobs

International students and expats need valid visas and work permits for part-time jobs in Japan. Japan offers various visa types that accommodate part-time work:

• Specified Skills Work Visa: Suited for blue-collar jobs in sectors like agriculture, construction, and sanitation. Valid for up to five years, with part-time eligibility varying by job.
• General Working Visa: For skilled professionals in specialized areas, this visa allows part-time work for individuals who meet certain academic or professional standards.
• Working Holiday Visa: Available to young people from specific countries, enabling temporary work, often used by those seeking part-time roles.
• High Skilled Professional Visa: Designed for highly qualified professionals, allowing part-time or flexible work in specialized fields that demand advanced skills and experience.

Eligibility and Requirements

Foreigners aiming for part-time jobs in Japan with visa sponsorship need specific qualifications. 

Basic requirements include a valid passport, relevant education or work experience, and a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) issued by the employer in Japan. The COE serves as proof of eligibility, enabling the employer to sponsor a work visa for the candidate.

Part-Time Job Categories with Visa Sponsorship

Visa sponsorship for part-time roles is available in several in-demand fields:

• Teaching Assistant Positions: Schools in Japan, such as Tommy International School, offer visa sponsorship for Assistant English Teachers. These roles usually require a Bachelor’s degree and teaching experience.
• Tech Support and Gaming Testing: Companies like Lionbridge Technologies provide visa-sponsored part-time positions for Localization Game Testers and tech support roles. Experience in technology or gaming is typically preferred.
• Hospitality Roles: Hotels and food service providers, including British Hills Co., Ltd., sponsor part-time hospitality roles such as customer service and food service positions. These roles often attract candidates with experience in customer-facing environments.
• Event Coordination: Event management firms, like LVMH Japan Group, sponsor part-time Event Coordinator roles, especially those involving international talent. Experience in event coordination or similar fields is often beneficial.

Guidelines for Part-Time Jobs in Japan for International Students Worldwide

Nearly 67% of international students in Japan work part-time, providing flexible income opportunities. For those looking to start, here’s a streamlined guide on essential rules:

• Student Visa and Residence Card: Full-time international students typically have a student visa and receive a residence card. This card is key for obtaining permission to work part-time legally.
• Work Permit Requirement: Students need a Shikakugai-katsudokyoka permit to work part-time under a student visa. This permit allows legal part-time employment.
• Working Hours: Part-time work is capped at 28 hours per week during school terms. During extended breaks (e.g., summer and winter), students can work up to 40 hours weekly.
• Restrictions: Working in adult entertainment or exceeding permitted hours is illegal. Violating these terms can result in visa revocation or deportation.
• Renewal and Reporting Requirements: Renewing a student visa involves renewing the Shikakugai-katsudokyoka permit. Some institutions may ask students to report details of their part-time employment to ensure compliance.
• Student Support: The Immigration Bureau and most schools offer multilingual support to assist international students with understanding work regulations and applying for work permits.

Top Platforms for Finding Part-Time Jobs in Japan

Several platforms make it easier for international students and ex-pats worldwide to find part-time jobs in Japan, with a range of listings suited to different industries and needs:

Application Process for Part-Time Jobs in Japan

Securing a part-time job in Japan involves presenting skills effectively:

• Match Skills to the Job: Highlight skills relevant to the job in your resume and cover letter.
• Include All Relevant Experience: Add past volunteer work or side jobs that demonstrate transferable skills. References can support your application.
• Research the Company: Show genuine interest by learning about the company’s culture and values.
• Learn Japanese: Proficiency in Japanese is advantageous, reflecting adaptability to the local environment.

To start your application, click this link.

Top 10 Highest-Paying Part-Time Jobs in Japan for International Students and Expats Worldwide

Japan's strong job market creates ideal conditions for part-time roles, especially for international students and expats seeking flexibility. 

These roles not only provide financial support but also offer valuable work experience. Here’s a list of some of the best-paying part-time jobs available:

• Convenience Store Staff: INR 620 (¥1.2K) per hour
• Restaurant/Café Staff: INR 538 (¥1K) per hour
• English Tutor: INR 1.8K (¥3.5K) per hour
• Retail Assistant: INR 1K (¥2K) per hour
• Hotel Staff: INR 1.1K (¥2.2K) per hour
• Factory/Warehouse Work: INR 851 (¥1.6K) per hour
• Food Delivery: INR 799 (¥1.5K) per hour
• Research Assistant: INR 1.1K (¥2.2K) per hour
• Library Assistant: INR 920 (¥1.8K) per hour
• IT Support: INR 1.2K (¥2.4K) per hour

Key Part-Time Job Sectors for Students and Expats in Japan

Teaching English remains a top option for students and expats. Many language schools and tutoring services hire English speakers to teach various age groups. 

Roles include ESL (English as a Second Language) tutors, Assistant Language Teachers (ALTs), and private English tutors.

IT and Engineering

Japan’s tech industry offers part-time roles in areas such as web development, software support, and general tech assistance. 

Individuals with IT skills and global insight are highly valued, making this sector attractive to those with technical expertise.

Hospitality and Tourism

Japan’s tourism sector offers numerous flexible roles. Hotels, restaurants, and travel services often need multilingual staff, especially those fluent in English, Chinese, or Korean. 

Positions include hotel support staff, tour guides, and dining service roles.

Business and Finance

Expats and students with knowledge in business or finance can find part-time work in multinational companies, consulting firms, and administrative roles. 

Common positions include accounting support, sales assistance, and business operations roles.

Healthcare Support

While licensed medical roles require certification, part-time healthcare support positions are available in hospitals and clinics. 

Opportunities often involve administration, patient assistance, and caregiving. Proficiency in Japanese is an advantage in this sector.

Restricted Part-Time Jobs for Foreign Students in Japan

Foreign students in Japan have specific job restrictions. The Japanese government prohibits students from working in certain establishments, including:

• Adult stores
• Massage parlors
• Pachinko parlors
• Love hotels
• Hostess bars or host clubs

While these jobs may offer higher wages, they pose significant risks to visa status, potentially leading to renewal issues or even deportation. 

Students seeking part-time employment should be aware of these restrictions to maintain compliance and avoid complications.

Conclusion

Part-time jobs in Japan offer international workers a chance to earn an average wage of INR 580 (¥1.1K) per hour, gaining practical work experience that enhances their resumes. 

Working in Japanese environments provides daily language exposure, accelerating language skills. Japan’s high safety ranking, positioned 10th in the 2024 Safety Index, ensures a secure experience for expats and students. 

With this guide, individuals worldwide have the foundation needed to find flexible work in Japan and enjoy a culturally rich and fulfilling journey in the Land of the Rising Sun.