Designers are required to have different skills depending on the country. If you are a foreigner who wants to change careers and become a designer at a Japanese company, you should start by doing some research to find out what the design situation is like in Japan.In this article, we will introduce tips for working as a designer in Japan and the differences between the characteristics of design in Japan and other countries to foreigners who want to work as designers in Japan. If you are looking for a job as a designer, please use the IT industry job-placement agency “G Talent”, which is a recruitment agency that brings together global companies.Tips for foreigners working as designers in JapanIf you want to work as a designer in Japan, make sure you keep the following seven points in mind. This will help you understand the patterns that are often used or required of designers in Japan.Include necessary information while focusing on convenienceBe careful of the different impressions created by different colorsUse capital letters to emphasizeDesign using a combination of hiragana, katakana and kanjiText can also be written verticallySometimes the text itself is used as an illustrationImportant to be aware of the sense of the seasonInclude necessary information while focusing on convenienceIn Japan, web design emphasizes convenience with the aim of “making it easy for users to find the information they want”. For exampleThe latest update information and event information is posted on the top pageThe menu is simple and easy to understand If users judge that it is easy to find the information they want when they first visit the site, it will be easier to gain their trust.Reference: UI（ユーザーインターフェース）とは？意味やデザインのポイント／DENTSU MACROMILL INSIGHTBe careful about the different impressions created by different colorsPeople's impressions of colors differ depending on the country or region. This is also true even within the same Asian region, and there are colors that have a positive image in Japan but a negative image in other countries. When sending information to users in Japan, it is important to remember the following color images as perceived by Japanese people.Color TypeImpression on Japanese peopleWhiteClean, sacred, bright, goodRedHot, passionate, active, energetic, angryOrangeBright, healthy, warm, funYellowJoy, happiness, attentionGreenNature, healing, calm, healthyBlueSmart, fresh, coolPurpleNoble, mysterious, feminineReference: 色の持つイメージが与える心理的効果とは？チラシデザインの広告効果を高めよう！／販促の大学Use capital letters to emphasizeIn the West, English sentences and words written in capital letters give the impression of being “attention-seeking” and negative, but in Japan, they are often used not to convey a good or bad image, but as a way of emphasizing the parts you want people to read, as a way of making the text easier to read.For example, in Japan, capital letters are often used when publishing company slogans, etc. You also need to be careful about how you use the alphabet.Reference: 大文字と小文字／デザイナーの英語帳Design using a combination of hiragana, katakana and kanjiThere are three types of characters in Japanese: hiragana, katakana and kanji, and words and sentences are written using a combination of these. There are many different ways to combine these characters, so you can create a design by arranging the combination that best matches the image you want to convey. You can also add English words to create a sentence.If you look at web designs that have actually been created for Japanese users, you will see that various character combinations are used to good effect.Reference: 日本のデザインスタイルは、そのままでは海外で通用しない／ぐれこブログText can also be written verticallyCompared to the alphabet, which is not suited to vertical writing, Japanese can be written both horizontally and vertically. In addition, for people whose native language is Japanese, vertical writing is the natural way of seeing things.For non-Japanese designers who use Japanese as a second language, it may seem unfamiliar. To get used to vertical writing, try walking around town and looking at signs written in Japanese, or checking out Japanese websites.Sometimes the text itself is used as an illustrationIn Japan, it is common to emphasize text by illustrating it in advertisements and signs. In particular, Japanese kanji are characters that are easy to illustrate. Kanji are made up of a combination of the “left” radical (on the left), the “right” radical (on the right), the “top” radical (on the top), and the “bottom” radical (on the bottom), but by illustrating some of these, it becomes easier to visually convey the message to the user.For example, if you use an illustration of a fish for the fish radical and an illustration of a tree for the tree radical, it will be easier for users to form an image in their minds before they even think about it.Reference: 偏旁冠脚／goo辞書Important to be aware of the sense of the season Japan is a country where you can clearly feel the differences between spring, summer, autumn and winter. Japanese people and foreigners who are used to living in Japan have a common image of each season. Therefore, it is recommended to incorporate illustrations of seasonal events and designs that evoke a sense of the seasons into web designs for Japanese users, as this will help to create a good impression and make it easier to convey information accurately.SeasonsImpressions received by Japanese peopleSpringCherry blossoms, entrance ceremonies, new life, pinkSummerThe sun, sunflowers, shaved ice, beer, swimming, fireworksAutumnAutumn leaves, persimmons, chestnuts, grapes, saury, sports dayWinterSnow, snowflakes, Christmas, New Year, mandarin orangesReference: 季節や月別の色のイメージとは？デザインに落とし込むコツもご紹介！／mitekakuDifferences between design in Japan and design in other countriesThe internet is now a tool that allows us to easily connect with the world. Even if you are a web designer in Japan, you need to keep in mind that your website will be viewed by users not only in Japan but also in other countries around the world. In this section, we will introduce some of the trends and characteristics commonly seen in design in Japan and other major countries.Characteristics of Japanese designJapanese websites, including the index page, which is the first thing users see, tend to include as much information as possible. This is particularly true of websites that are accessed by a wide range of users, and one of the characteristics of these sites is that they tend to have little white space. However, in Japan, there is a minority of users who view websites without scrolling.On the other hand, there are many websites that have adopted the latest design trends to make their content easier to read, and these sites tend to have a core audience.It is true that many Japanese users want to obtain the information they need as quickly as possible. For this reason, it is important to use access analysis and other tools to analyze which content is needed, and to narrow down the items displayed on each page.Reference: 世界各国のWebデザインと日本のWebデザインの特徴／ManaのWebクリエイターカフェCharacteristics of American designThe United States has been a pioneer in the development of the web industry, and as a web-advanced country where the latest designs are constantly being created, many sites incorporate the latest designs. Specifically, although simple designs that use only images and headline text are generally common, the rationality of being able to easily find links to the items you really need is a feature that is also expressed on the site. Unlike sites for Japan, which emphasize the amount of information, it can be said that they emphasize images.In addition, since originality, humor and impact are highly praised in this country, “vivid colors” and “energy” are also emphasized in design.Reference: 日本とアメリカのデザインの違い／ルートメロン研究所Characteristics of French designEven in France, which is one of the Western countries, there are many minimalist sites that are as simple as American sites and display minimal content, so it can be judged that images are also emphasized here. However, when it comes to color, there seems to be a preference for simplicity and intelligence, such as “adding a theme color to black and white”. There is no need to limit yourself to the tricolor of the French flag (blue, white and red), but by considering these three colors as the basis of your design, you should be able to create a safe and smart site.Reference: フランスと日本のデザインの違い／西方見聞録（旧パリレポート）Characteristics of Saudi Arabian designIn Saudi Arabia, where there are many Muslims in the Arab world, there is a tendency for sites to be designed using images that make a strong first impression. The key is to use images that make a strong impact and make people want to click on them. This is a fundamentally different approach to design from that of Japanese sites, which do not place such importance on impact.Characteristics of Chinese designChina has many things in common with Japan's design, which is also in the Asian sphere, and it seems that web designs reminiscent of busy neon streets and signs are popular. Many sites use more colors than in Japan to pack in information, and the text and fonts are larger, and many pages are longer.In addition, because of the many information restrictions in China, it is difficult to access services and tools that are common overseas, such as Google, YouTube and Instagram. The same is true of Google Maps, so you will need to be creative when creating social networking share buttons and links to maps.Reference: 制作前に知っておきたい、中国国内向けWebサイトの開発・デザインの注意点／DESIGN JOURNALLet's find out some tips for foreigners working as designers in Japan!Web design preferences and characteristics differ depending on the user's country of origin. If you are a foreign designer looking for work in Japan, it is important to focus on designs that Japanese users are familiar with and find easy to use.Japanese people tend to want a lot of information to be visible at a glance on the top page of a website. However, it is not enough to just have a lot of information - if you carefully select the information that is really necessary and post it, it will be easier to find the links and the design will also improve.If you are looking for a job as a designer in Japan, we recommend “G Talent”, a job-placement agency for foreign IT engineers. It also lists many job openings at venture companies and global companies with English-speaking environments, so you can find a job as a designer that suits you.

There are significant cultural differences between foreigners and Japanese people, so you may find yourself in situations where you feel a gap in the office scene. Depending on the situation, there are cases where a culture that is considered acceptable in your home country is considered taboo in Japan, so foreigners who want to work in Japan should familiarize themselves with Japanese culture in advance.In this article, we will introduce 15 common cultural differences that foreigners often experience in Japanese offices. If you are looking for a Japanese company that suits you, we recommend IT industry global company recruitment agency "G Talent".Common cultural differences that foreigners experience in Japanese offices 1: Always being greetingWhen you go to work in the morning and meet the other employees, you say “Ohayo gozaimasu” (Good morning), and when you leave work in the evening, you say “Shitsurei shimasu” (Excuse me) or “Osakini shitsurei shimasu” (Pardon me for leaving first), and Japanese people say greetings at every opportunity. Also, because there is a culture of saying “Konnichiwa” (Hello) or bowing even when you just pass someone in the hallway, to foreigners, it may seem like Japanese people are always being greeting.In particular, in Southeast Asian countries such as Thailand and Vietnam, there is no culture of greeting people in the first place, so many people from these countries feel that there is a big gap with the unique Japanese office culture of greeting people. However, because Japanese people also place importance on greetings when doing their work, if you want to work smoothly in Japan, you should also place importance on greetings.Reference: 外国人トラブル５選｜文化や風習の違いで起こる／ミャンマー・ユニティCommon cultural differences that foreigners experience in Japanese offices 2:  There is a lot of reporting, contacting and consultationWhen doing their work, Japanese people place importance on what is called reporting, contacting and consultation. This is because, when they report and contact, the entire company can grasp the content of each person's work and the progress of their work, and if they consult immediately when they don't understand something, they can carry on with their work smoothly without worrying unnecessarily.However, in foreign countries, there is no culture of reporting, contacting and consulting. In the United States in particular, there is a belief that “reporting and contacting your boss without a request is a bad thing that wastes your boss' time”, so many people probably don't do reporting, contacting and consulting.However, in Japan, people who do reporting, contacting and consulting are evaluated as “able to work” and “attentive”, so please contact your boss before doing anything, and don't forget to report after finishing your work. Also, if you have any questions, be proactive and consult with your boss.Reference: ここが知りたい米国税務・会計／LighthouseロサンゼルスCommon cultural differences that foreigners experience in Japanese offices 3: Never refusing workIn other countries, each employee has a clearly defined set of tasks to do, so they don't do one task while simultaneously working on another one.However, in Japanese offices, the boundaries between individuals' work are unclear, so there is a tendency to accept requests for other tasks without refusing them even when you are in the middle of something else. In Japan, not refusing a request for work is seen as a sign of excellence, so the fact that people are expected to multitask can be seen as a generation gap between Japan and other countries.Reference: 外国人労働者の文化と価値観の違いによるトラブルとは？具体例と対処法を解説。／RISE for BusinessCommon cultural differences that foreigners experience in Japanese offices 4: Disliking small talkMany foreigners communicate through small talk rather than greetings, but small talk at work can be seen by Japanese people as a sign that you are not concentrating on your work or are slacking off. For this reason, even if you are trying to be friendly, small talk at work is often not appreciated in Japanese offices.If you want to communicate smoothly in Japan, the best way is to have conversations during breaks and exchange greetings frequently.Reference: 日本のグローバル化やダイバーシティはなぜ進まないのか？その理由は日本人の国民性にあった！？／COWELLCommon cultural differences that foreigners experience in Japanese offices 5: There is an unspoken agreementIn Japan, there is a deeply-rooted culture of unspoken agreements, where you read the mood of the situation and judge the other person's feelings. For example, “You must not leave before your boss” and “You must not go against your boss's opinion” are unspoken rules in Japanese society.However, in other countries, there is a culture that is the opposite of Japan's, where you should honestly convey your thoughts to the other person, so the unique Japanese culture of reading the mood of the situation and refraining from speaking or acting may be one of the gaps that is difficult to understand.Common cultural differences that foreigners experience in Japanese offices 6: Don't make your own decisions, ask your bossIn other countries, especially in the US, employees are free to make their own decisions as long as they contribute to the company's success, and those who can make the best decisions for themselves are highly regarded. However, in Japan, it is common practice to consult with your boss or seek their judgment before starting work. If you make your own decisions, you will be negatively evaluated as “not being cooperative” or “self-centered”, so be careful.Reference: 絶対に仕事でやるべきアメリカ🇺🇸で学んだ５つのこと／noteCommon cultural differences that foreigners experience in Japanese offices 7: No tolerance for tardinessAs is well known around the world, Japanese people are extremely punctual. It may be hard to believe, but in Japan, even a one-minute tardiness is almost always unacceptable, so when working in Japan, be sure to be punctual.Incidentally, there is also an unspoken rule in Japan that it is considered late to arrive at work after the start of the working day. For this reason, even if the working day starts at 9:00, it is safer to arrive at work between 8:30 and 8:45.Reference: 「日本人って時間に厳しすぎない？」と面倒くさがられたら…／COURRIERCommon cultural differences that foreigners experience in Japanese offices 8: Lots of overtimeIn other countries, it is considered good to work efficiently within the hours, so when you see someone working overtime, you would evaluate them as someone who is not good at their job. However, in Japan, the more overtime you do, the more you are evaluated as someone who is working hard, and the more you leave on time, the more you are evaluated negatively as someone who is “insensitive for leaving before the boss” or “someone who is cold and doesn't help others with their work”.At present, there are reforms underway in Japan to change attitudes towards overtime work, but the reality is that there are still many companies that require their employees to work overtime. For this reason, foreigners who value efficiency and want to make the most of their private time will probably find that there are significant cultural differences in Japan, where the more time you spend on work, the higher your evaluation will be.Reference: 長時間労働の原因は何なのか？日本人の労働実態と問題点／RELO総務人事タイムズCommon cultural differences that foreigners experience in Japanese offices 9: The blurred line between work and private lifeIn Japan, it is common for people to have dinner or drinks after work or on their days off. This is because many people in Japanese offices think that after-work gatherings are an important time for communication.However, in other countries, people tend to place more importance on their private lives, so it is rare for people to spend time with their colleagues after work. Most people think that communication can be achieved through casual conversation during work, so the fact that there is no clear distinction between work and private life is also a major cultural difference that foreigners feel when they are in Japanese offices.Common cultural differences that foreigners experience in Japanese offices 10: Different food culturesBecause the food cultures of Japan and other countries differ greatly, problems are likely to occur in situations where all employees eat the same meal together, such as welcome and farewell parties. For example, in Japan, you don't often hear of cases where people can't eat certain foods for religious reasons, but in Islam, which is practiced in Asia, North Africa, and the Middle East, it is forbidden to eat pork or alcohol. In particular, with regard to pork, not only the meat but also seasonings such as bouillon and lard are off limits, so there are cases where people cannot eat even a single bite of the meal that is served.Also, while raw fish is used in a variety of dishes in Japan, there are many foreigners who do not like raw fish, so it is important to let them know in advance about the differences in food culture when a meal is being held.Reference: 宗教別・信念／東京都多言語メニュー作成支援ウェブサイトCommon cultural differences that foreigners experience in Japanese offices 11: Rarely firedIn other countries, it is common for employees who have not achieved results to be fired on the spot. However, in Japan, unless they have made a major mistake, employees are not fired.Therefore, from the perspective of foreigners who are used to a system based on ability, they may find it difficult to understand Japanese society, which continues to employ employees who are not performing well.Reference: 「働かないおじさん」を守る解雇規制 「割を食うのは次世代の若者だ」 弁護士が警鐘／弁護士ドットコムニュースCommon cultural differences that foreigners experience in Japanese offices 12: Focusing on the process rather than the resultIn foreign societies, as long as the results are good, the cost and time spent on the process are not questioned. However, in Japanese society, not only the results, but also the cost and time spent on the process are taken into account when evaluating people, so if you spend a lot of money on a budget or spend too much time on a single task, your evaluation is likely to suffer.For this reason, when working in Japan, you also need to focus on building a process that will help you achieve results.Reference: 日本人がアメリカの職場で感じた10の企業文化の違い／btraxCommon cultural differences that foreigners experience in Japanese offices 13: Many companies have a retirement allowance systemIn foreign countries, sudden dismissal and changing jobs is common, so companies almost never pay a retirement allowance when someone leaves. For this reason, foreigners use a defined contribution pension system to manage their assets.In Japan, on the other hand, a retirement allowance is paid by the company at the time of retirement, depending on the number of years of service, so the longer you work for one company, the greater the benefits at the time of retirement. This is another major cultural difference that foreigners may notice in Japanese offices.Common cultural differences that foreigners experience in Japanese offices 14: Hiring people with no experienceOverseas, people are hired based on their skills and creativity, so it is rare to hire people with no experience. However, Japanese offices tend to value people who will continue to work for a long time, rather than focusing on individual skills, so they will first hire people who will not disrupt the harmony of the company, even if they have no experience.In Japan, people think that “individual skills can be honed through training and other means”, so the fact that there is an environment that is easy for people with no experience to work in is a pleasant surprise.Common cultural differences that foreigners experience in Japanese offices 15: “I can do it” is not a definite statementIn Japan, if you say you can do something, you are expected to be able to do it 100% of the time, so you don't say you can do something unless you are 100% sure you can do it. On the other hand, in countries like the US, many people will say they can do a job even if there is only a 30-50% chance of success, and then work to achieve 100% results, so there is a gap in the meaning of the word “can do” between Japan and other countries.For this reason, when you are asked to do a job in Japan, it is better to only say that you can do a job if you can achieve 100% results, to avoid any problems.Reference: 真面目な日本人よりテキトーなイタリア人の方が｢仕事がデキる｣と断言できる理由／PRESIDENT onlineForeigners who want to work in Japan should be aware of the common cultural differences they will encounter in Japanese officesAs we have seen in this article, foreigners working in Japan will encounter cultural differences in various situations in Japanese offices. What is considered acceptable in their home country may be taboo in Japan, so it is important for foreigners who want to work in Japan to be aware of the cultural differences between Japan and their home country in advance.At global company recruitment agency “G Talent”, we provide total support for those who are worried about the gap between Japan and other countries, from job introductions to recommendations and selection advice for companies, and even salary and other benefits negotiations, so that you can work for a Japanese company with peace of mind. We have a track record of introducing engineers from over 70 countries to over 200 Japanese IT companies, so if you are a foreign IT engineer who wants to work in Japan, start by registering for free.

When looking for work in Japan, many people probably place importance on the level of pay. Japan is widely accepting foreign workers due to a shortage of people, but there are many people who are wondering “how much is the average annual income for foreigners?”, “which type of work will get me a high salary?” and so on.In this article, we will introduce jobs in Japan that pay well. We will also explain what you need to do to get a job that pays well, so please use this as a reference when looking for work in Japan. If you are looking for a job in Japan that pays well, we recommend “G Talent”, a recruitment agency that brings together global companies in the IT industry.What is the average salary for foreign workers in Japan?According to “The 2020 Basic Survey on Wage Structure” released by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, the average wage for foreign workers was 218.1 thousand yen. The average wage for both men and women in Japan is 307.7 thousand yen, so some people may feel that this is low. The average wage for Japanese people varies depending on age, occupation and gender, so it is not possible to say that the average salary for foreign workers is low, but it is thought that the reason for the low wages is related to the length of time they have been working.In Japan, seniority is important, and the longer you work, the more chances you have to get a pay rise. It can be predicted that this unique Japanese system has an impact on the average wage for foreign workers.Compared to developing countries, salaries in Japan are higherAlthough Japan has been in a prolonged recession, the salary level is higher than in developing countries such as Southeast Asia and South America. For example, looking at the average monthly basic salary of workers in Japanese manufacturing companies in 2019, Indonesia was $348, while the Philippines and Vietnam were both at a low level of $236. Of course, salaries vary depending on the type of work and the location, but it can be said that the benefits of working in Japan are great, as you can earn a higher salary than in your home country.Reference: アジアの労務コスト比較、意外に大きい賃金水準の地域差／JETROWhat types of work have high salaries in Japan?Before looking for work in Japan, let's find out about the types of work that have high salaries. We will explain in detail about the work content, how to find a job, and the average annual salary.System Engineer/ProgrammerConsultantsMarketersAnalystsInterpreters/TranslatorsTeachersSystem Engineers/ProgrammersSystem engineers are responsible for system development, while programmers use programming languages to perform their duties. They are also known as IT engineers, and this is a job type that is in increasing demand in Japan, where the need for IT skills is growing.To become a systems engineer, you need presentation skills and knowledge of IT in general, while to become a programmer, you need knowledge and skills of programming languages.Average annual salary: 6.5 to 7.5 million yenReference: 【英語を活かせる仕事35種】選び方やレベル、想定年収まで徹底解説／神田外語学院ConsultantYou will support the performance improvement and growth of client companies by making strategic proposals and providing implementation support. Although no special qualifications or licenses are required, this is a job that requires a high level of English ability due to the increasing number of Japanese companies aiming to expand globally.The demand for consulting jobs is increasing year by year, and there are also an increasing number of jobs that welcome people with no experience. It is common to work for a consulting company and improve your skills, but there are also people who work as freelancers.Average annual salary: 5 to10 million yenReference: コンサルタントの仕事／キャリアガーデンMarketerThe job of a marketer is to understand market needs and come up with ideas for how to sell products. The work of a marketer is not simply about selling things, but also involves being responsible for the process from product development to getting the product into the hands of the customer.There are no special qualifications required to become a marketer, but you will need to use business schools and/or study on your own to gain the skills and knowledge required to become a marketer.Average annual salary: Around 5 million yenReference: マーケターとは？どんな仕事内容？年収やなり方、必要スキルも紹介／ITプロマガジンAnalystAnalysts are financial specialists who work for securities companies, banks, investment advisory firms, etc., and they research and analyze a wide range of data on topics such as earnings, business conditions, the domestic and international economy, and political situations, in order to evaluate stock prices and predict future economic trends.It seems that there is an increasing number of cases where financial institutions, etc., are recommending that people obtain securities analyst qualifications.Average annual salary: Around 7 million yenReference: アナリストの仕事の年収・時給・給料／求人ボックス給料ナビInterpreting/TranslationInterpreting is the work of acting as an intermediary between people who use different languages and translating between the languages of the two countries. Translation is the work of translating foreign language sentences and papers etc. into the language of the country in which they are used. In order to work as an interpreter or translator, there are two options: registering with an interpreting agency or temporary staffing agency, or working as a freelance interpreter or translator.No qualifications or licenses are required, but a high level of English ability is necessary.Average annual salary: 4 to 8 million yenReference: 気になる通訳の年収・給料情報／elanTeacherThis is a job where you teach English at Japanese schools or companies. In recent years, Japan has become more globalized, and with English education at elementary schools now compulsory, the demand for English teachers is increasing.In order to work as an English teacher, you need to have the “Education” visa status, and to become an English teacher at junior high school or high school, you need to obtain a “teacher's license”. If you are an English teacher at an elementary school or a private school, you do not need a license, but the recruitment requirements differ depending on the place of work, such as requiring English ability of at least 700 points on the TOEIC.Average annual salary: Around 3.5 million yenReference: 需要増加中！外国人英語教師の給料や多様な働き方を詳しく解説[グローバル2]／FellowshipForeigners looking for work in Japan! How do you get a job with a high salary?In order to get a job in Japan with a high salary, you need to keep the following points in mind.Acquire a residence status in the “specialist/technical field”Get a full-time jobAcquire IT skillsImprove language skillsLearn Japanese business etiquetteAim to acquire qualificationsChange jobs to a company that values youWe will now explain in detail the key points for finding a job with a high salary.Acquire a residence status in the “specialist/technical field”The “status of residence” referred to as a work visa is a qualification that allows foreigners to engage in certain activities while residing in Japan. Please see the table below for the main status of residence that applies to “specialized and technical fields”.Status of ResidenceExamples of WorkEngineerEngineers in fields such as mechanical engineering, SE, etc.Specialist in HumanitiesOffice work such as planning, sales, accounting, etc.International ServicesLanguage teachers at English conversation schools, interpreters/translators, designersIntra-company TransferEmployees transferred from a foreign office with the same status of residence as the two aboveTechnicianForeign chefs, foreign architects, gem processing, pilots, sports instructorsProfessorUniversity professorsInvestment/ManagementManagers and administrators of foreign-affiliated companiesLegal/Accounting ServicesLawyers, accountantsMedicalDoctors, dentists, nurses, pharmacists, radiology techniciansResearchResearchers at government-related organizations, companies, etc.EducationLanguage teachers at high schools, junior high schools, etc.There are some status of residence that allow you to work, and others that do not, so obtaining a status of residence in a “specialized or technical field” means that you have been granted permission to stay in Japan for the purpose of working. Choose a status of residence that suits your work.Reference: 我が国で就労する外国人のカテゴリー／厚生労働省Get a full-time jobThere are also routes to getting a job as a part-time or temporary worker, but if you want to earn a high salary, aim to get a full-time job. Looking at the wages by employment type, the average for full-time, permanent employees is 324.2 thousand yen, and for non-full-time, permanent employees, it is 214.8 thousand yen. In Japan, the practice of long-term employment still remains, so there are many advantages to being employed as a full-time worker in order to continue working in a stable manner.Reference: 【比較】正社員とフリーターの手取りの差はどのくらい？違いを知って自分らしい働き方を学ぼう／マイナビバイトTIMESAcquire IT skillsBy acquiring IT skills such as computer operation and programming, you will be more likely to find employment and to find work that pays well. For example, system engineers and programmers are in high demand in Japan and can earn relatively high salaries.In order to join a company with better conditions, you should aim to acquire IT-related qualifications and improve your skills.Reference: 年収1000万を超えるITエンジニアの共通点！高年収のITエンジニアランキングなども紹介／HiPro TechImprove language skillsIn order to find a job in Japan that pays well, you will need to improve your Japanese language skills as well as your English, in order to communicate effectively with your colleagues and business partners. Some Japanese companies allow internal communication to be conducted in English, but not all companies are global.There are different levels of certification in the Japanese Language Proficiency Test, such as N1 and N2, but if you have N1, which corresponds to the “business level”, you will be able to work at many companies.Reference: N1・N2は必須？外国人が日本で就職する際に必要な日本語力とは[グローバル1]／FellowshipLearn Japanese business etiquetteAn essential part of working at a Japanese company is acquiring Japanese business etiquette. There are unique Japanese manners that are unfamiliar to foreigners, such as how to carry out work and how to exchange business cards. By learning about the characteristics and customs of the Japanese, you will be able to communicate smoothly in interviews and other situations, and after joining a company, you will be able to behave in a way that is not rude to clients.Reference: 日本のビジネスマナーや守るべきポイントとは？／JSJのコラムAim to acquire qualificationsThere are jobs that you can get without any special qualifications or skills, but if you want to get a job with a higher salary, it's probably best to aim to get a qualification. For example, there are cases where system engineers and programmers are hired even if they have no experience, but by getting a national qualification such as the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry's Information Processing Engineer Examination or Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) certification, you may be able to broaden the range of companies you can apply to.There are also advantages to being able to carry out your work more easily after being hired, so you should acquire qualifications that match the type of work you want to do.Reference: MOSとは／MOS取得のメリット／MicrosoftChange jobs to a company that values youChanging jobs to a company that will appreciate your abilities and skills is also an essential point for getting a job with a high salary. For example, if you are looking for a company that is looking for global talent, there is a higher chance that they will offer you a high salary. Take a good look at your own skills and think carefully about which industry you could thrive in.How can foreigners find jobs in Japan that pay well?The following are some recommended ways for foreigners to find jobs in Japan that pay well.Employment Service Center for ForeignersUniversities or vocational schoolsPersonal connections and SNSJob sites for foreignersJob-changing agencies for foreignersPlease find the company you are looking for using the method that suits you best.Employment Service Center for ForeignersHello Work has Employment Service Centers for Foreigners, which provide job introductions to foreigners who wish to work in Japan. Some of these facilities have interpreters who speak English, Chinese, etc., so we recommend that you visit one of these centers for advice.Reference: 外国人雇用サービスセンター／一般社団法人外国人食品産業技能評価機構University or Vocational SchoolIf you are attending a university or vocational school, it is also important to check the job postings on the notice boards on campus. There is a possibility of finding jobs that are not posted on job sites, such as those directly posted by companies to universities.Reference: すぐ活用したい新卒採用法！大学に求人票を掲載する方法と応募増の3つのコツ／トルーPersonal connections and SNSThere are also ways to expand your network and gather information about business, or to find jobs in the type of occupation you want through social networking services. It is also known that many foreign residents in Japan use social networking services to look for work, so there is a good chance you will be able to find a job in a high-paying occupation.Reference: 仕事探しに使うメディア第1位はFacebook！在留外国人の仕事探しにおけるリアルな声を調査／訪日ラボJob sites for foreignersBy using job sites for foreigners and saving jobs that interest you as favorites, you can find high-paying jobs more efficiently. On the IT human resources-focused global environment job site “GitTap”, you can find “global environment jobs” that will make your wish to “work using English” or “work with multinational members!” come true.First, register as a new user, and if you see a job that interests you, click the 'Apply' or 'I'd like to hear more' button. The person in charge of recruitment will explain the details of the job in a casual and polite manner. If you fill out your profile, you can also receive job offers from companies.Job-changing agencies for foreignersWe also recommend using a job-placement agency for foreigners to help you find a job. At foreign IT engineer job-placement agency “G Talent”, IT specialists provide support for finding employment and changing jobs in Japan. They introduce companies that match your preferences from among the projects of notable venture companies and global companies, and handle a large number of IT job offers from companies where you can work in a fair environment regardless of nationality.Let's find out about jobs with high salaries and build up a career in Japan!There are many jobs in Japanese companies that pay well, as we have introduced here. In order to find a company with even slightly better conditions, let's work on improving our own skills and building up our careers in Japan.If you are looking for a job in Japan that pays well, we recommend the foreigner-oriented job change agent "G Talent". It has supported the recruitment of over 200 companies and the job changes of engineers from over 70 nationalities. Let's start with a free registration.

In some cases, even if the job type and content are the same, there are differences in the treatment received in Asian countries and Japan. If you are a foreigner looking for a job or changing jobs in Japan, you may not be able to find a job that matches your desired conditions if you do not understand the differences.In this article, we will explain the differences between jobs in Asian countries and Japan, focusing on the “treatment aspect”. We will also explain in detail the differences in salary and understanding of foreign workers, so please refer to it. If you are looking for a job with good working conditions in Japan, we recommend "G Talent", a job-placement agency specializing in global companies.How much difference is there in working conditions between Asian countries and Japan for the same job?There are cases where there are differences in working conditions between Asian countries and Japan, even for the same job. Let's take a closer look at what kind of differences there are in working conditions.Difference in minimum wage between Asian countries and JapanDifference in average salary by occupation between Asian countries and JapanDifferences in average annual income between Asian countries and JapanDifferences in welfare benefits between Asian countries and JapanDifferences in minimum wage between Asian countries and JapanThe minimum wage is the lowest amount of pay that must be paid. As the minimum wage determines the average salary, it is important to compare minimum wages when explaining differences in work conditions. The differences in minimum wage between Asian countries and Japan are as follows. Minimum wage (monthly salary) Growth rate (2018-2022)JapanApproximately 146,000 yen10％ChinaApproximately 46,000 yen13％MalaysiaApproximately 33,000 yen10％IndonesiaApproximately 38,000 yen22％ThailandApproximately 28,000 yen6％PhilippinesApproximately 27,000 yen5％CambodiaApproximately 26,000 yen14％VietnamApproximately 25,000 yen11％MyanmarApproximately 7,000 yen33％The minimum wage in Asian countries is on the rise in all countries. The possible reasons for this are “dissolving the dissatisfaction of the people” and “preventing the outflow of workers” with the aim of improving living standards. Although Myanmar has the lowest minimum wage, it is expected to increase further in the future, as the growth rate is 33%.Although Japan's minimum wage is high compared to other Asian countries, it is not particularly high in terms of growth rate. As economic growth in Asian countries is expected to continue, there is a possibility that the way Japanese companies do business with Asian countries will change, depending on factors such as the relocation of production bases and the way human resources are utilized.Reference: データブック国際労働比較2022／JILPTDifferences in average salary by occupation between Asian countries and JapanAs with the minimum wage, there are also significant differences in average salary between Asian countries and Japan. In this article, we will look at the differences in salary by occupation. As salary is an important part of working conditions, we hope that this will be of use to foreigners who are planning to work in Japan or are undecided about which country to work in. Manufacturing (monthly salary)Non-manufacturing (monthly salary)JapanApproximately 3.8 million yenApproximately 4.1 million yenChinaApproximately 80,000 yenApproximately 1.65 million yenMalaysiaApproximately 62,000 yenApproximately 1.29 million yenIndonesiaApproximately 55,000 yenApproximately 72,000 yenThailandApproximately 58,000 yenApproximately 112,000 yenPhilippinesApproximately 35,000 yenApproximately 73,000 yenCambodiaApproximately 31,000 yenApproximately 66,000 yenVietnamApproximately 36,000 yenApproximately 96,000 yenMyanmarApproximately 17,000 yenApproximately 54,000 yenWhen comparing Japan with other Asian countries, Japan still has a higher average salary. However, the average salary in other Asian countries is also on the rise, and there is a possibility that companies that have expanded overseas will withdraw from areas that have been developed as production bases for foreign companies.Reference: 新型コロナ禍2年目のアジアの賃金・給与水準動向／JETRODifference in average annual income between Asian countries and JapanThe difference in average annual income between Asian countries and Japan is as follows. Average annual incomeJapanApproximately 4.14 million yenChinaApproximately 1.91 million yenMalaysiaApproximately 2.38 million yenIndonesiaApproximately 380,000 yenThailandApproximately 1,280,000 yenPhilippinesApproximately 450,000 yenCambodiaApproximately 170,000 yenVietnamApproximately 460,000 yenMyanmarApproximately 130,000 yenAs with average monthly income, Japan boasts the highest salary level in Asia. There is a difference of around 30 times compared to the average annual income of the lowest-ranking country, but because the growth rate differs between Asian countries, there is a high possibility that the difference will narrow in the next 10 years.However, the above figures are merely averages and do not represent the salaries received by all citizens of each country. Although there are areas in Asian countries that are experiencing rapid economic growth, there is also a wide disparity in income between urban and suburban areas due to the widening gap between the rich and the poor.To give an example, in China, there is a large disparity between the rich, middle class and low-income groups, and the average annual income of the rich is extremely high, starting at 25 million yen. Therefore, depending on your social class, the difference in annual income between Japan and China may not be that great.Reference: ザ・サラリーアナリシス イン アジア／JACDifferences in welfare benefits between Asian countries and JapanWhen checking your benefits, it is important to look at the various welfare benefits on offer, not just your salary. In some Asian countries, welfare benefit systems similar to those in Japan have been introduced, and countries such as China, Thailand and Malaysia have social insurance, medical insurance and paid holidays as part of their welfare benefits.However, in Japan there are no welfare benefits related to religion. In some Asian countries, there are cases where welfare benefits such as leave for pilgrimages or special bonuses are provided in accordance with the religion of the employee. Welfare benefits differ not only between countries, but also between companies. Even within the same country, welfare benefits differ between companies, so if you are considering finding a job or changing jobs in Japan, you should check the welfare benefits offered by each company.Reference: インドネシアのユニークな「会社の福利厚生」と「欠勤や遅刻の理由」／SEKAI WOMANWhy there are differences in treatment between Asian countries and Japan, even for the same jobAs mentioned above, we have seen that there are differences in treatment between Asian countries and Japan, even for the same job. The following four points can be cited as reasons for the differences in treatment between Asian countries and Japan.Differences in pricesApproach to workHigh investment appetiteDifferences in pricesThere are significant differences in salary, in particular, among the treatment of work in Asian countries and Japan. One of the reasons for the significant differences in salary between countries is that prices differ greatly from country to country. For example, in Japan, mineral water that costs around 100 yen per bottle is sold for around 20 yen in Thailand and Vietnam. Because the prices of goods differ greatly, there are significant differences in treatment, such as salary.According to the “2023 Cost of Living Survey - City Ranking” published by Mercer, prices in Asian countries and Japan differ as follows. Ranking in Cost of Living SurveyJapan (Tokyo)19thChina (Beijing)13thChina (Guangzhou)36thMalaysia (Kuala Lumpur)180thIndonesia (Jakarta)150thThailand (Bangkok)105thPhilippines (Manila)133rdCambodia (Phnom Penh)132ndVietnam (Hanoi)156thMyanmar (Yangon)204thReference: 2023年 世界生計費調査－都市ランキング ／マーサAttitudes towards workThe attitudes towards work in Asian countries and Japan differ as follows. Because attitudes towards work differ from country to country, there are differences in the treatment offered by companies. Asian countriesJapanThe meaning of working for a companyOne source of incomeWorking for a long time and getting aheadWhat is important when workingThe high level of compensationGood human relations and work contentCareerA career that allows you to make use of the knowledge you learned at university, etc.Professional career advancement (Promotion to section manager, department manager, etc.)While in Japan, people tend to place more importance on the working environment, such as order and stability, than on compensation, in Asian countries, people tend to place more importance on compensation. For this reason, in Japan, there are many companies that offer not only good salaries but also good welfare and working conditions. If you are looking for work in Japan, you may be able to find a company with good conditions if you compare not only salaries but also other benefits.Reference: アジアの「働く」を解析する／Global Career SurveyHigh investment motivationWhen comparing young people in Asian countries with young people in Japan, those in Asian countries tend to be more willing to invest. In particular, the rate of ownership of stocks, investment trusts, etc. is over 50% for young people in Singapore, China and Malaysia. In Japan, the figure is less than 20%, so it can be said that investment motivation is lower than in other Asian countries. Japan is more cash-oriented than other countries, so perhaps salary and pay raises are more important.Reference: ９か国のお金・資産の話～日本と海外の考え方の違いは？～／知るギャラリーThere are differences in treatment between Japanese and foreign-affiliated companies even within JapanEven if you are doing the same job in Japan, there are differences in the treatment you receive at Japanese and foreign-affiliated companies. We will explain four specific differences in treatment, so please refer to them if you are considering finding a job or changing jobs at a Japanese company.Starting salaries are the same or higher at foreign-affiliated companiesAverage annual income is higher at foreign-affiliated companiesCareer advancement is more likely at foreign-affiliated companiesThe level of welfare benefits differs depending on the companyStarting salaries are the same or higher at foreign-affiliated companiesIn the case of the same job, starting salaries at Japanese companies and foreign-affiliated companies are the same or in many cases slightly higher at foreign-affiliated companies. The average starting salary is as followsJapanese companies: 3-4 million yenForeign-affiliated companies: 4 million yen or more Although there are differences depending on the company and the type of work, foreign-affiliated companies tend to offer higher salaries. In the case of foreign-affiliated companies, incentives are included, and many companies do not have a retirement allowance system or a welfare program, so these are reflected in the salary.Reference: 外資系企業の初任給はどれくらい？初任給が高いといわれている理由とは／Michael PageAverage annual income is higher at foreign-affiliated companiesAlthough the starting salary is about the same, the overall salary treatment is better at foreign-affiliated companies. The average annual salary at Japanese companies and foreign-affiliated companies is as follows.Japanese companies: approx. 4 million yenForeign-affiliated companies: approximately 8 million yenForeign-affiliated companies do not have a seniority system, and salaries are given according to performance. Furthermore, some foreign-affiliated companies do not have a good welfare system or retirement benefits, so in some cases, these are included in the annual salary. It can be said that the merit of foreign-affiliated companies is that you can greatly increase your annual salary depending on your work ability.Reference: 外資系企業の給料が高い理由は！？なぜ高いといわれるのか徹底調査！／転職鉄板ガイドCareer advancement is more likely at foreign-affiliated companiesIf you want to advance your career within your job, it is easier to do so at a foreign-affiliated company. This is because, while many Japanese companies are based on seniority, many foreign-affiliated companies adopt a performance-based system, so you can advance your career regardless of your age or position if you have the ability to do the job.Furthermore, foreign-affiliated companies also tend to have a high turnover rate and a high rate of mid-career hires. As a result, it is easy for a gap to appear in your work career, and if the conditions are right, you can fill the vacant career slot. If the seniority system doesn't suit you, you should also consider foreign-affiliated companies as an option.Reference: 外資系企業の特徴とは？向いている人や転職方法について徹底解説／TENJeeThe level of welfare benefits differs depending on the companyIn Japan, there are two types of welfare benefits: “statutory welfare benefits” which are required by law, and “non-statutory welfare benefits” which companies can decide on their own. If a company is based in Japan, whether it is Japanese or foreign-affiliated, it must provide statutory welfare benefits.Japanese companies tend to offer a wide range of non-statutory benefits. However, the quality and content of non-statutory benefits will vary depending on the size of the company, the type of work, and the nature of the work, so it is a good idea to check each company's benefits system before joining.Reference: 法定福利と法定外福利の違いとは？／フリーウェイ給与計算Understand the differences in treatment between Asian countries and Japan, and find a job with good treatment!The treatment you receive, such as salary and welfare benefits, differs between Asian countries and Japan. If you are a foreigner working for a Japanese company, there is a high possibility that you will feel uncomfortable about the differences in treatment, so you should learn about Japan's unique treatment in advance.Even in Japan, there are many foreign-affiliated companies that have different treatment and work values from those of Japanese companies, so we recommend that you also consider foreign-affiliated companies. If you would like to work at a foreign-affiliated company in Japan, please use "G Talent", a job-placement agency specializing in global companies. Our consultants, who have specialist knowledge, will support you in your job-change, and will also be able to help you with any queries you may have, such as “I can't find the job I want” or “I don't know which company is best”.

There are many different countries in Asia, and there are significant differences between them in terms of language, culture and ethnicity. There are also significant differences in economic standards, so it is important to be aware of the differences in salary and job conditions. Japan, as one of the countries in the Asian region, also has many differences from other Asian countries.In this article, we will focus on differences in salary and job conditions in major Asian countries for those considering changing jobs overseas in Asia, and explain the information you need to know when searching for job information. If you want to work in Japan compared to other Asian countries, please use the job agency “G Talent”, which specializes in global companies.Differences in salary between in Japan and other Asian countriesEven if we say “Asia” in general, there are big differences in economic standards, so salaries vary from country to country. In this article, let's take a look at the differences in salary between Japan and other Asian countries, focusing on jobs related to engineering.CountryAverage salary (annual)JapanJPY approx. 4.92 millionSingaporeSD 59,510 (approx. 6.5 million yen)Hong KongHKD 326,733 (approx. 6.1 million yen)ChinaCNY 235,832 (approx. 4.64 million yen)ThailandTHB 646,710 (approx. 2.53 million yen)MalaysiaMYR 48,619 (approx. 1.5 million yen)PhilippinesPHP 469,557 (approx. 1.16 million yen)IndonesiaRP 122,466,870 (approx. 1.07 million yen)VietnamVND 15,484 (approx. 930,000 yen)The table above shows the average salary for engineers converted into Japanese yen. Due to differences in economic conditions and prices in each country, there are significant differences in salaries even for the same type of engineering job. In Singapore, there is a minimum monthly salary requirement for work visas, so the average salary is higher than in other Asian countries. The average salary for engineers in Japan is the third highest of the countries listed.Reference: “Salary Data & Career Research Center”|payscaleDifferences in job conditions between in Japan and other Asian countriesIn addition to salary, there are various differences between job conditions in Japan and other Asian countries. Here, we will explain the differences between typical countries.Characteristics of job conditions in JapanJapan's position within Asia is that of a country where foreign companies from all over the world have bases. There are also many large and small Japanese companies, and a feature of Japan is that you can find jobs for foreigners in a variety of occupations. In addition to general office work, sales, consulting, and customer service in the service industry, such as hotels and restaurants, where English and Japanese translation and interpreting skills are required, jobs for foreigners in engineering-related fields, which are in short supply in Japan, are also increasing.Depending on the company, there may be Japanese language training after you start work, or there may be people available to act as a bridge between Japanese and foreign staff, such as bridge SE. Even within Asia, Japan is a country where various foreigners can work easily.Reference: 職種ガイド／NIPPON仕事.comCharacteristics of job conditions in ChinaJapanese companies have long been manufacturing in China, but in recent years, due to rising labor costs, many manufacturing bases have been moving to countries in Southeast Asia. The types of jobs that are currently attracting attention for foreign workers in China are those that require special skills, such as IT engineers. Jobs that require special skills are classified as A-rank jobs, and they have the characteristic of being easier to obtain work visas for.In some cases, in addition to English language ability, high Chinese language ability is also required, but in other cases, such as production management, long work experience can be used as a substitute for language ability.Reference: 外国人就業規制・在留許可、現地人の雇用／JETROCharacteristics of job conditions in SingaporeSingapore is known as a base for Asia, and global companies from all over the world have expanded into the country. Many Japanese companies also have bases in Singapore, and there are many job openings for people with work experience in Japan. There is a minimum salary standard for those with work visas, so the average salary is high, but English ability at a high business level is required.Reference: 研究・開発拠点として地位向上（シンガポール）／JETROCharacteristics of job conditions in Hong KongAlong with Singapore, Hong Kong is a city that attracts many foreign companies from around Asia. In addition to manufacturing and the service industry, trading companies and financial institutions, etc., foreign and Japanese companies have bases in various industries. Because Hong Kong was once a British colony, Cantonese and English are official languages. Therefore, if you can speak English, you will have the advantage of being able to live comfortably as well as work.Reference: 香港に移住して働く人の仕事や生活は？現地グローバルキャリアアドバイザーに聞きました／dodaCharacteristics of job conditions in ThailandThailand is a country where foreign and Japanese companies have been expanding into for a long time, even within the Asian region. Compared to other Asian countries, Thailand is considered to be a safe country, and there are many foreign companies with a long history in Thailand. There are various job opportunities, including manufacturing, IT engineering, consulting, and the service industry, as well as real estate and sales, and in some cases, Thai language skills are required in addition to English language skills. Because there are also many people in Thailand who are pro-Japanese, it is also a characteristic of working in Thailand that it is easy to live there.The average salary in Thailand is about half that of Japan, but prices are also around 1/2 to 1/3 of Japan's, so you can live comfortably without any problems. However, prices in urban areas such as Bangkok, the capital, tend to be higher.Reference: タイで働くって実際どう？メリットやデメリット、求人の見つけ方を解説／RENOSY ThailandCharacteristics of job conditions in MalaysiaIn Malaysia, many conditions are attached to the issuance of work visas for foreigners with the aim of raising the skill levels of all occupations and job functions of the country's own citizens. For this reason, it is not easy for foreigners to work in Malaysia. However, as there are many Japanese manufacturers and Western-affiliated foreign companies operating in the country, there are a certain number of job openings. English is also one of the official languages in Malaysia, so you can work and live there using only English.The average salary in Malaysia is about 1/3 of the average salary in Japan. However, as the cost of living is also about 1/3 of Japan's, you can live there with the same sense of living as in Japan.Reference: 外国人就業規制・在留許可、現地人の雇用／JETROCharacteristics of job conditions in PhilippinesJapanese companies in the manufacturing industry, such as the automobile industry, have expanded into Manila, the capital of the Philippines. Another characteristic is that there are many IT-related, consulting, service, and sales jobs. Because English is one of the official languages of the Philippines, if you have English skills, you can live a normal life without any problems, as well as work.The average salary in the Philippines is around 1.16 million yen per year when converted to Japanese yen, which is much lower than the average salary in Japan. However, prices are also around a quarter of those in Japan, so you can live without lowering your standard of living.Reference: フィリピンに移住して働く人の仕事や生活は？現地グローバルキャリアアドバイザーに聞きました／dodaCharacteristics of job conditions in IndonesiaIndonesia, which is rich in natural resources such as oil, natural gas, coal and copper, is home to many Japanese manufacturing and trading companies. For this reason, it is characterized by the large number of jobs available in sales for manufacturers. In particular, Indonesia is the largest car market in Asia, so car-related manufacturers account for 10% of all companies.Indonesia also has resort areas such as Bali, so the tourism and food and beverage industries are also thriving, and there are many job openings in the tourism industry, such as guides for tourists. When working in Indonesia, you may need to speak Indonesian as well as English.Reference: インドネシアで仕事をする方法【人気求人・給料相場・必要スキルを解説】／NNAグローバルナビCharacteristics of job conditions in VietnamSince Vietnam has introduced a requirement to report to the government on foreign workers employed in jobs that cannot be filled by Vietnamese nationals, there is a tendency for work visas to be difficult to obtain for foreigners. However, as many Japanese companies in the manufacturing industry have bases in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, there are many job openings for people with work experience in Japan. You can also find job openings for engineers and other technical staff, as well as jobs in the arts and humanities, such as management support.Vietnam has the lowest average salary of the Asian countries we have introduced here. However, as in other Asian countries, prices are around 1/3 to 1/4 of those in Japan, so even if the salary is low, it is not a problem.Reference: 外国人就業規制・在留許可、現地人の雇用／JETROForeigners need a visa to work in AsiaIf you are a foreigner hoping to find a job or change jobs in Asia, you will need a work visa. After learning about the characteristics of job offers in each Asian country, you should also familiarize yourself with the criteria for issuing work visas. By learning about visas along with the characteristics, you can use this as a basis for deciding which country is right for you.The criteria for obtaining a work visa differs depending on the type of job. In this article, we will compare the criteria for obtaining the most common work visas in various Asian countries. The most common work visa in Japan is the “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” visa.CountryCriteria for obtaining a work visaJapanWork visa for “specialist in the field of technology, humanities, or international services”:University graduate or equivalent, 10 years or more work experience, passed information processing technology exam or have relevant qualificationsSingaporeEP pass (specialist): University graduate or equivalent, fixed monthly salary of at least SGD 5,000, etc.S pass (general work visa): University, junior college, or vocational school graduate or equivalent, etc.Hong KongMust have a 4-year university degree or equivalent, with 3-5 years work experienceChinaZ visa: university degree or equivalent, with 2 years work experience, aged 18-60ThailandNo specific conditions, but a work permit must be obtained after entering the country on a B visaMalaysiaUniversity graduate or aboveJunior college or vocational school graduate or above + 3 years work experience or aboveHigh school graduate or above + 7 years work experience or abovePhilippines9 (g) No particular conditionsIndonesiaMust have the appropriate academic background for the position, 5 years or more work experience, etc.VietnamRequirements for managers, business operators, specialists and technicians:18 years old or over, university graduate or over, with work experience (3 years or over in the specialist field) etc.In Thailand and the Philippines, there are no specific conditions for obtaining a work visa. In other countries, in order to obtain a work visa, you need to have a certain level of education or work experience. In countries such as Malaysia and Vietnam, where foreign employment is only permitted in jobs where there is a shortage of local workers, and in Singapore, where the criteria for obtaining a work visa for foreigners is becoming stricter, there is a strong trend towards difficulty in obtaining a work visa.Reference: Country and Region Data Comparison Results / JETROBenefits of changing jobs to a Japanese company other than salaryThere are many foreigners in Asia who want to find a job or change jobs in Japan. The countries of origin of foreigners who change jobs to Japanese companies vary, but it is thought that the relatively high number of people from Asia is due to the following benefits.There are few concerns about public safety and medical carePhysical proximity to home countryThere is less stress associated with cultural differences There are few concerns about public safety and medical careJapan is one of the safest countries in the world. Furthermore, because Japan has a universal health insurance system, people working in Japan can join the public health insurance system regardless of their nationality. Because joining the public health insurance system is compulsory, another benefit is that you only have to pay 30% of the total cost at the medical facility reception desk.Reference: 外国人患者の受入れのための医療機関向けマニュアル／厚生労働省Physical proximity to home countryThe biggest advantage for foreigners from Asia working in Japan is the proximity to their home country. When taking paid leave to go home for a while, the cost of plane tickets is lower than returning home from Europe or America, and the small time difference means less of a strain on the body.Reference: 東南アジアへの海外就職が今アツい！なぜアジアが注目を集めるのか／INTERN KAIGAIThere is less stress associated with cultural differencesAlthough there are differences in culture and religion between Japan and people from Asia, there are also many similarities, such as the fact that the staple food is rice and that people are generally warm and friendly. For this reason, compared to foreigners from Europe and America, there is a high possibility that you will experience less culture shock and cultural differences. If you are working abroad for the first time, it can be said that Japan is a good choice because there are fewer cultural differences.Reference: トラベルプランナー④／noteBe aware of the differences in salaries and job conditions in Asia and Japan when changing jobs!When considering employment or changing jobs in an Asian country, it is recommended that you compare and consider the salaries, ease of obtaining work visas, and job conditions in each country. For IT engineers, Japan is a country where you can concentrate on building up your career because of its outstanding public safety.If you are looking for a job in Japan with good conditions, we recommend "G Talent", which specializes in global companies. As it is a job-changing service that specializes in foreign IT engineers, it can introduce jobs that are also suitable for those working in Japan for the first time. It also provides visa and salary negotiation support, so please make use of it.

If you are from Europe and are looking for a job in Japan, you may be concerned about the differences in pay and working conditions. In this article, we will explain the differences in working conditions between Europe and Japan. We will introduce the differences in pay and working hours in detail, so please check it out if you have any concerns or questions about working in Japan.We will also explain the things that people from overseas should know when working in Japan. Use this article to understand the differences in terms of work conditions and reduce the gap you may feel after joining a company. If you are looking for a well-paid job in Japan, please make use of “G Talent”, a recruitment agency for high-career foreign engineers.Differences in salary between Europe and JapanThe most important aspect of work conditions is probably salary. There are the following differences in wage systems between Europe and Japan.EuropeWage rates are set by industry, and the same wage rates are applied regardless of whether the worker is a regular or non-regular employee (equal pay for equal work)JapanThe details of the wage system differ depending on the companyReference: 海外での同一労働同一賃金とは？海外の歴史や課題と日本との違い／mitsucariFrom here, let's take a look at the differences in average salaries between Europe and Japan, focusing on engineers, who are important in terms of work conditions.Average salaries for engineers at Japanese companiesAccording to the “Trends in IT Human Resources in Japan” report released by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, the average salary for Japanese engineers in their 30s is 5.26 million yen. The average salary for all of Japan is around 4.43 million yen, so engineers can be said to be a profession that earns higher compensation than the national average.Average salaries for engineers at European companiesThe average salary for engineers working at European companies is around 6.06 million yen. Compared to Japanese engineers, engineers in Europe can expect to earn around 800,000 yen more on average. However, average salaries also vary from country to country, and in this case we are looking at the average salary in France.Reference: Engineering Average Salaries in France 2024Differences in working conditions between Europe and JapanLet's compare working conditions in Europe and Japan in the following four areas.Working hoursWhat is expected at workPromotion and pay increasesEmployee benefitsWorking hoursThere are the following differences in working hours between Europe and Japan.Europe1,566 hours/yearJapan1,607 hours/yearIn Europe, it is customary to leave work on time, and in some countries working hours are strictly regulated by law. In Japan, on the other hand, the amount of work per person is high, and there is also a culture where overtime is considered virtuous, so working hours are longer than in European countries.However, in recent years, Japan's attitude towards work has been changing, shifting towards "quality over quantity". With the government-led 'work style reform' also being promoted, there is a possibility that Japan's working hours will approach the global standard.Reference: Hours worked / OECD DataWhat is expected at workLet's compare what is expected at work in Europe and Japan by category. EuropeJapanTeamwork・Individual skills take priority・Ability to pursue profit・Harmony takes priority・Ability to get along well within the teamCustomer service・Field-oriented approach・Providing service based on personal opinions and ideas・Following internal rules・All employees provide the same level of serviceLeadership・Strong leadership image・Reforms and change are required・Mild-mannered personnel・Decision-making that matches team members is requiredThe fundamental differences in work ethics between Europe and Japan mean that Europe is about the individual, while Japan is about harmony. Europe places importance on individual skills and opinions, and prioritizes the quality of work.In Japan, while efficiency is also important, it is more important to work as a team, rather than focusing on individual gains. Therefore, when working in Japan, it is important to value teamwork rather than acting too independently.Reference: 【日本の常識は世界の非常識？】ヨーロッパとの比較で見えてきた日本企業の強みと課題／リクナビNEXTジャーナルPromotion and pay increasesThere are also differences between Europe and Japan in the processes for promotion and pay increases. Due to the differences in working styles between Europe, where employment is based on jobs, and Japan, where employment is unlimited, there are also differences in the treatment of promotion and pay increases. Let's take a closer look at the characteristics of each.Characteristics of Job-Based Employment in EuropeYou take up a job or position that matches your skillsIn order to be promoted, you need to join the company as an up-and-coming manager (an 'elite').If you join as an elite, you can be promoted and receive a pay rise quickly by producing results.In the case of job-based employment, even if you continue doing the same job for a long time, it does not necessarily mean that you will be promoted. Although there are exceptional cases such as being selected for a position or being replaced, there is a high possibility that you will not be promoted or receive a pay rise from the start to the end of your career. However, if you are hired as an elite employee, you will be given the opportunity to gain a wide range of work experience and the chance to be promoted and receive a pay rise.Characteristics of Unlimited Employment in JapanYou start with simple work when you join the companyThere is the possibility of being promoted and receiving a pay rise depending on your age and achievementsAlthough anyone has the chance to be appointed to a position, it is difficult for young people to be appointed to management positionsIn the case of unlimited employment, there is only one career entry point, but there are opportunities for promotion and pay rises based on experience and performance. This is an attractive feature because it means you can work with the motivation of future career advancement. However, it takes time to get a promotion or pay rise, so you have to maintain your motivation over the medium to long term.Reference: 欧米には日本人の知らない2つの世界がある／日経ビジネスEmployee benefitsBoth Europe and Japan have good welfare systems, and there is no significant difference in terms of treatment. In both Europe and Japan, basically, social insurance, paid holidays and overtime pay are provided.However, in Japan, there are two types of welfare: the legally mandated “statutory welfare” and the voluntary “non-statutory welfare”. Since non-statutory welfare can be voluntarily institutionalized, the features of each company vary.For example, commuting and housing allowances, as well as cultural and recreational allowances, are welfare benefits that are unique to Japan. If you are considering working in Japan, you should also check the level of non-statutory welfare benefits. In particular, commuting and housing allowances are important points related to living expenses. Check whether there is a difference in whether they are provided for regular and non-regular employees, and if they are provided, what percentage you will receive.Reference: 福利厚生とは？種類や導入のメリットを解説／NTTビジネスアソシエ東日本Points that engineers from Europe should know about working conditions at Japanese companiesLet's look at three points that engineers from Europe should know about working conditions at Japanese companies. You don't need to agree with everything, but if you keep them in mind, you will be less likely to feel stressed by any gaps you find after joining the company.Tend to prioritize diligence over resultsUnderstand the seniority systemBe strict about time and overtimeTend to prioritize diligence over resultsIn Japanese companies, there is a tendency to prioritize “diligence” over “results” of work. The following are specific examples of diligence in Japanese companiesUse the minimum amount of paid leave givenPrioritize work over private lifeHandle the amount of work that assumes overtimeArrive at work 15 to 30 minutes before the start of the working dayWith regard to paid holidays, the government-led work style reform has made it compulsory to take at least five days of paid leave each year. However, in the Japanese work ethic, where work takes precedence over private life, there are cases where it is not possible to take all of the paid holidays stipulated by the company.Furthermore, not only do Japanese people work long hours, but in some companies, overtime and arriving early for work have become customary due to the mindset that “the boss is still here” and “I'd feel bad if I didn't do a good job”.As long as you are not violating company rules or laws, there is no problem with taking 100% of your paid leave or leaving work on time. However, there is a possibility that foreigners working in Japanese companies will feel a gap in work attitudes.Reference: 日本企業文化の特徴は？海外文化との比較で徹底解説／スキルナビUnderstand the seniority systemThe seniority system is a typical example of Japanese employment, and is a system in which employees are promoted and receive pay raises in accordance with their length of service and age. Because employees are rewarded regardless of their work performance, this may be a point that is uncomfortable for foreigners who are used to a performance-based system. The seniority system was introduced for the following reasons and with the following benefits.Because the length of service is a measure of experience and achievementBecause it is assumed that the longer you have worked for a company, the more you have contributed to itBecause it is based on the premise of a lifetime employment systemThe seniority system is a system that allows long-serving employees to advance their careers. If someone you are familiar with becomes your boss, it will be easier to maintain good relationships within the department. Young employees grow by watching their superiors, so if they develop an awareness that it is natural to teach their subordinates their work, it will also be a benefit that will naturally create a good educational environment. It will also lead to imagining future careers, and it is also expected to maintain the motivation of young employees.Reference: 年功序列とはどんな制度？生まれた背景やメリット・デメリットも解説／スタンバイplusBe strict about time and overtimeIf you work for a Japanese company, be sure to stick to the start time. There are some differences depending on the company culture, but if you are frequently late, there is a high possibility that your evaluation will be lowered. Of course, punctuality is also required for daily work, such as meetings and conferences.Furthermore, in Japan, overtime work is a common practice, and work tends to take priority over private life. Although the idea of “prioritizing work-life balance” is becoming more established in Japan, as it is in Western countries, you should also understand that you may be asked to work overtime during busy periods.However, as working hours are legally stipulated in Japan as follows, if you are forced to work beyond these hours, please appeal to your supervisor or the personnel department.As a general rule, you must not work more than 8 hours a day or 40 hours a weekIf you do work more than this, you must take a break of at least 45 minutes after 6 hours and at least 1 hour after 8 hoursAs a general rule, the maximum overtime hours are 45 hours a month and 360 hours a yearReference: 労働時間・休日／厚生労働省Understand the differences in treatment between Europe and Japan and make a job change you won't regret!There are differences in work conditions such as salary and working hours between Europe and Japan. In particular, there is a big difference in the way people feel about working hours, and in Japan, there is strict management of overtime and arrival times.These differences in work attitudes are the fundamental cause of these differences, so when working for a Japanese company, it is important to understand the “Japanese way of thinking about work”. There is no need to force yourself to adapt, but if you don't understand, you may feel stress due to the gap after joining the company.If you want to change jobs without any regrets, try looking for your ideal job with "G Talent", a recruitment service specializing in global IT personnel. Based on the information you provide, they will find a job that matches your skills and desired conditions. They have a system in place to support you until you start work, so if you are considering changing jobs in Japan, please use their services.

There are differences not only in the working environment and employment conditions, but also in the salary structure, between European and Japanese companies. For those of you who are looking for a global way of working, salary is one of the most important points to consider when choosing a company. By learning about the differences between European and Japanese companies, you will be able to make a smoother choice.In this article, we will explain the differences in salary between European and Japanese companies. If you only have a vague idea of each company, you may end up regretting your decision after you have received an offer. If you are having trouble deciding whether to apply for a job at a European or Japanese company, please refer to this article. If you want to find a job with good salary conditions regardless of your nationality, please use the global recruitment agency "G Talent".Differences in salary between European and Japanese companies: Which should I apply for?There are significant differences in salary between European and Japanese companies, as shown below.[Differences in average salary between European countries and Japan (2020)]CountryAverage annual salary (US dollars)Iceland67,488Luxembourg65,854Switzerland64,824Netherlands58,828Denmark58,430Norway55,780Belgium54,327Germany53,745Austria53,132Ireland49,474United Kingdom47,147Sweden47,020Finland46,230France45,581Slovenia41,445Slovenia38,515Spain37,922Italy37,769Poland32,527Lithuania31,811Estonia30,720Czech Republic29,885Latvia29,876Portugal28,410Greece27,207Hungary25,409Slovakia23,619The table above shows the difference in average annual income (in US dollars) between European countries that are members of the OECD and Japan. Of the European countries, Iceland has the highest average annual income, and it can be seen that people there receive salaries that are about double those of Japan.On the other hand, the country with the lowest average annual salary is Slovakia, which is around $15,000 less than Japan. Even if we say “European companies” in general, the salary conditions vary from country to country in this way. However, there is a tendency for the average annual salary to be higher in many countries than in Japan.Reference: 世界の最低賃金ランキング（2020年版） | 「平均年収」「最低年収」「最低時給」から解説／DigimaCompared to Europe, salaries in Japan are lowAs mentioned above, salaries in Japan are lower than in European countries. The reason for the low average annual salary in Japan can be predicted to be closely related to the fact that salaries have not increased for around 20 years.YearSalary (thousand yen)Year-on-year change rate (%)2001305.81.22002302.6-1.02003302.1-0.22004301.6-0.22005302.00.12006301.8-0.12007301.1-0.22008299.1-0.72009294.5-1.52010296.20.62011296.80.22012297.70.32013295.7-0.72014299.61.32015304.01.52016304.00.02017304.30.12018306.20.62019307.70.52020307.70.62021307.4-0.1According to the “Overview of the 2021 Wage Structure Basic Survey” by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, we can see that from 2001 to 2021, salaries have only increased by 2,000 yen.Japan's low labor productivity is also likely to be a major factor in the low salaries. Labor productivity is a figure that expresses the results that can be produced per employee or per hour. Companies with high labor productivity are able to pay higher salaries, but factors such as the delay in the introduction of IT and the small size of companies have kept Japan's labor productivity low.Japanese labor productivity has remained almost the same for the past 20 years, and is ranked 22nd out of all OECD member countries. These factors are thought to be related to the low salaries in Japan.Characteristics of European Companies Compared to Japanese Companies|Which is better for applying for jobs?There are differences in working styles and working hours between Japanese companies and European companies. The following are five characteristics of European companies that differ from Japanese companies.Work-life balanceWorking hoursTeamworkPercentage of female managersPerformance-based payWork-life balanceIn European companies, unlike Japanese companies, work-life balance is emphasized, and there is a strong tendency to be able to balance work and private life. According to a survey by an American software company, European countries such as Norway and Switzerland occupy the top places in the ranking of cities with the best work-life balance, showing that Europe is a developed country in terms of work-life balance.For example, in Norway, around 90% of men take childcare leave, and women are more active in society than in Japan. In a survey of around 30,000 people in 31 European countries, 90% of people working in Norway said they were satisfied with their work-life balance, proving that there are systems in place that allow people to value both work and family life.In Japan, work-life balance is not yet considered important, and we rank low among OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) member countries. Improving work-life balance is not only beneficial for workers, but also for companies in terms of “improving labor productivity” and “preventing staff turnover”, so there is a need to flexibly optimize the way we work.Reference: 仕事と生活のバランスが最も優れた都市ランキング”の2022年版が発表／HYPEBEASTWorking hoursIn Japan, there is a system in place regarding working hours that states that employees should not work more than 8 hours a day or 40 hours a week, but there is a tendency for employees to work long hours, with unpaid overtime being common.On the other hand, European companies are different from Japanese companies in that the percentage of people working long hours is low, and the environment is set up so that employees can work comfortably. In Norway, Sweden and Finland, the percentage of people working long hours of over 48 hours a week is less than 10%, and in France, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Germany and Estonia, the percentage of people working long hours is also low.In Latvia, Sweden and Finland, many companies have introduced systems such as flexible start and finish times and compensatory leave systems, and there is a widespread attempt to achieve a good work-life balance for employees. Shorter working hours mean that there is more time to reflect on oneself and enrich one's private life. In Scandinavian countries and Switzerland, women spend at least 15 hours a week on childcare, and men spend at least 7 hours a week on childcare, so it can be said that the shorter the hours spent at work, the more time there is for childcare.Reference: ■□ カエル！ ジャパン通信 Vol.８ □■／「仕事と生活の調和」推進サイトTeamworkIn European companies, the idea of individualism, which emphasizes the importance of the individual's ideas rather than working as a team, is prevalent. Since individual ability is valued, it is also called a meritocracy, and most people go home after their own work is done. It could be said that the absence of troublesome human relationships is a characteristic of European companies.In Japanese companies, teamwork is emphasized, and it is thought that it is more important for the whole team to accomplish the task than for individuals to achieve great results. For this reason, it is not unusual to see people sharing the workload and working together. You may even see people working overtime together to get the job done.Reference: ｢長時間労働がない｣ドイツと日本の致命的な差／東洋経済オンラインPercentage of female managersUnlike Japanese companies, European companies have a high percentage of female managers, and women are making progress in society. For example, in Norway, a country that is advanced in terms of work-life balance, 47.2% of workers are women, and the ratio of women on private company boards is around 25%.In 2003, the ratio of women on private company boards in Norway was around 8.5%, but this rose to around 25% in 2007 due to the introduction of legal regulations. In Japan, the percentage of female managers has been on the rise in recent years, but as of 2018, it was 18.3% for assistant managers, 11.2% for managers, and 6.6% for department managers, which is not a figure that matches European companies.Reference: 第2節　企業における女性の参画／男女共同参画局Performance-based payIn Europe, when you become a manager, you are expected to achieve results, and there are many cases where you have to work hard. Although many European companies have a low working hours and emphasize work-life balance, due to the spread of performance-based and ability-based systems, it seems that some people who become leaders end up working overtime to get the job done.On the other hand, in Japan, not only leaders but all employees tend to work hard. Depending on the company, subordinates may end up working more overtime than their superiors, and it can be hard work.Reference: 欧米には日本人の知らない二つの世界がある／Human CapitalThe differences between the merits of European and Japanese companies: Which should you apply for?European and Japanese companies have different characteristics, so there are also differences in their merits. From here, let's take a look at the merits of European and Japanese companies respectively.Merits of working for European companiesEuropean companies differ from Japanese companies in many ways, and the following merits can be gained in terms of salary and working style.Salaries are likely to be higher than at Japanese companiesThere is less overtime and it is easier to take holidaysPersonal ideas are respectedThere is a good working environment for womenSalaries at European companies are higher than at Japanese companies, and there is a significant difference in average annual income. In some countries, such as Spain and Italy, average annual income is lower than in Japan, but in countries such as Iceland and Luxembourg, it is possible to earn almost double the salary.In many countries, working hours are restricted by law, so there is little overtime and it is easy to take holidays. In terms of work, individual ideas are respected rather than team ideas, so unlike in Japan, there is little need to worry about troublesome human relationships. In many European companies, there are also more female managers, so it is easy for women to work throughout their lives, which is another characteristic of European companies.Reference: 海外のお給料事情を調査！世界の平均年収ランキング、日本は何位？／mymoMerits of working for Japanese companiesThe following are some of the merits of working for a Japanese company, which differs in various ways from European companies.Stable salaryHard to be laid offWell-developed environment for training new employeesWork as a teamThe average salary in Japanese companies is relatively low at $38,515 as of 2020, but many companies have a fixed salary or monthly salary system and also offer housing allowances and retirement benefits. Because it is difficult to be laid off and the longer you work, the more likely you are to be promoted and receive a pay rise, this is a big advantage for those who want to work for a long time at one company.Unlike foreign companies overseas, which require employees to be able to hit the ground running, Japanese companies generally hire promising new graduates, so the environment for training new employees is well-established. Since the basic approach is to work as a team, you can take on challenging goals and tasks that would be difficult to do on your own.There are various differences between the advantages of European companies and Japanese companies, and Japanese companies are suitable for those who want to work in a stable environment for a long period of time.Reference: 日系・外資系企業の違いやメリット・デメリットとは／America-Intern.comHow to find a job in Japan with good conditions such as salaryWe have seen that there are various differences in characteristics and advantages between European companies and Japanese companies. After you have identified the company that suits you, let's actually look for a job. The following five methods can be used to find a job with good conditions.Narrow down your desired conditionsPerform self-analysisBroaden your job searchRegister with a job-change agentMake use of business SNSNarrow down your desired conditionsThere are various conditions for jobs, and it would be best if there were jobs that fulfilled all of your conditions, such as working hours, salary, number of days off, and distance from home. However, there are few jobs that fulfill all of your desired conditions, and if you are too picky about your conditions, it will be difficult to move on to the next step.If you are considering changing jobs or finding a new job, first narrow down your desired conditions. If you are changing jobs, it is also recommended that you decide on the conditions that you cannot give up based on the reason you left your previous company.Reference: 良い求人の探し方がわからない！転職先探しの方法と失敗しないコツ／ミライトーチ MediaPerform self-analysisBy conducting a self-analysis and identifying your areas of strength and experience, it will be easier to find a job with good conditions. The definition of a job with good conditions differs from person to person. By looking back on your career to date and thinking about when you felt happy, you can find a job with good conditions for you.Reference: 良い仕事の見つけ方。自己分析や働きやすい条件、業界を知ろう／スタンバイplusBroaden your job searchOne of the keys to finding a good job is to broaden your job search and not be too fixated on a particular industry or job type. Depending on the job market, there may be few job openings in the industry or job type you are hoping for. However, depending on your career and experience to date, you may be able to play an active role in a field other than the one you are hoping for. For this reason, you should broaden your job search.Reference: 失敗しない求人情報の探し方！転職活動のコツを紹介／じょぶるRegister with a job-change agentThe best way to find a job with good conditions is to make use of a job-change agent. A job-change agent is a job-search service where professional career advisors propose jobs that suit you. By making use of a job-change agent while carrying out the three points introduced above, you should be able to find a job with good conditions that suits you.If you want to take on the challenge of working for a global company such as a European company, we recommend a job-placement agency that specializes in global recruitment. “G Talent” is a job-placement agency for high-career foreign engineers, and they can offer you a variety of good job opportunities. They also provide visa support and salary negotiations, so we recommend them especially for those who want to work in Japan, where they are not familiar with the local customs.Make use of business SNSIn addition to recruitment agencies, you can also find jobs through direct recruiting, which involves communicating directly with the person in charge of hiring at the company. For direct recruiting, business-oriented social networking sites such as Linkedin and Wantedly are mainly used. Using business social networking sites has the advantage that you can not only communicate directly, but also find out new information about companies immediately.Reference: ビジネスSNSを活用した転職の方法／LHH転職エージェントFind out about the differences in salary between European and Japanese companies before you apply for a job!There is a big difference in average salary between European and Japanese companies. If you want to earn a higher salary, do your research before you apply for a job. The foreign IT engineer specialist recruitment agency “G Talent” has a wide range of global companies, so it is also possible to focus your job search on European companies.

In Japan and overseas, even for the same job, there can be differences in salary. For those thinking of moving from overseas to Japan to find work, you want to be paid a decent salary to live in a country you are not familiar with. So, how much of a difference is there actually in the salary for the same job?In this article, we will explain the specific differences in salary for the same job in Japan and overseas, the reasons for these differences, and the key points for getting a stable salary in Japan. We will also be discussing expenditure as well as salary, so please refer to this if you are planning to live in Japan.If you are looking for a job in Japan with a high salary in the same occupation, we recommend the foreigner-focused recruitment agency “G Talent”. The professionals at this agency will handle all the complicated salary and condition negotiations on your behalf, so you will have a better chance of finding a job in the same occupation with a high salary.How much difference is there in salary between the same occupation in Japan and overseas?There are cases where salaries differ between overseas and Japan, even for the same job type. As the companies that are increasing their market share differ from country to country, there may be significant differences in each region. From here, we will compare the average salaries in Japan and overseas by industry.Differences in salary for the same job type: Japan vs. United StatesThe United States is a country that always comes out on top in the GDP rankings published every year, and there are many companies there that offer services that are also familiar in Japan. The differences in salary for the same job type in the United States and Japan are as follows.[Average salary by occupation]OccupationUnited StatesJapanIT10-12 million yen4.36 million yenConsulting18-19 million yen5.85 million yenFinance9.6 million yen4.54 million yenManufacturer7.9 million yen4.53 million yenIn the IT industry, there is a difference in salary of more than double that of Japan, even for the same job type. As there are many large companies such as GAFA concentrated in the US, it can be assumed that salaries in the IT industry are high. There is also a difference in salary of 1.5 to 3 times that of Japan in industries other than IT, and overall salaries are higher in the US.Reference: 海外のエンジニアの年収は？年収を増やす方法を解説／TECHのススメDifferences in salary for the same job type: Japan vs. United KingdomThe differences in salary for the same job in the UK and Japan are as follows.[Average salary by occupation]OccupationUnited KingdomJapanIT4.8 million yen4.36 million yenConsulting3.73 million yen5.85 million yenFinance8.5 million yen4.54 million yenManufacturer3.28 million yen4.53 million yenCompared to the US, salaries are generally lower. Compared to Japan, Japan is inferior in the IT and finance industries, but Japan pays slightly higher salaries in the manufacturing and consulting industries.Reference: あの職業は年収いくら？英国の給与事情／COSMOPOLITANDifferences in salary for the same job: Japan vs. China China, which has the world's largest population, is a country with lower prices than Japan. However, it can be seen that in recent years, salaries in China are relatively higher than in Japan.[Average salary by occupation]OccupationChinaJapanIT14 million yen4.36 million yenConsulting11 million yen5.85 million yenFinance4.8 million yen4.54 million yenManufacturer4.87 million yen4.53 million yenIn the IT and consulting industries, salaries are higher than in Japan. Some companies even pay higher salaries than in the US, where there are many major IT companies, and the range of salaries varies widely from company to company.Reference: 中華IT最新事情／Hatena BlogWhy are there big differences in salaries between Japan and other countries, even for the same job? Why is there a difference in salary between the same job in Japan and overseas? The following three reasons can be cited for the large difference in salary between the same job in Japan and overseas.Differences in pricesThe existence of large companiesThe size of investment appetiteDifferences in pricesJust as minimum wages differ from region to region in Japan, prices also differ from country to country, and the higher the prices, the higher the salaries tend to be. For this reason, even if salaries seem high compared to Japan, when you take into account essential living expenses such as rent and food, the standard of living may not be that different.Reference: 日本とアメリカの賃金の差／スクールナビThe existence of large companiesThere are a number of large companies that are so successful that they have a global market share, and their business performance is also strong. In order for these large companies to grow further, they need to acquire talented people. It is thought that they pay high salaries to lure talented people away from other companies, and as a result, salaries in the industry as a whole are raised.Reference: アメリカ巨大IT企業の給料がケタ違いに高い理由／東洋経済オンラインThe size of investment appetiteIn Europe and America, the performance-based evaluation system is the norm, with a focus on results and contribution rather than on the person. There is a tendency to focus on how much an employee contributes to the company rather than on their skills, abilities or personality. Therefore, the higher the contribution to the company, the greater the return, and companies that want to improve their performance are willing to invest in people who make a high contribution to the company.Points for comparing salaries for the same job in Japan and overseasIf you only look at salaries when comparing salaries in Japan and overseas, you may miss out on a good opportunity. If you are looking at the same job, you will be particularly concerned about the difference in salary, but it is important to compare from a different perspective. The following are two points to note when comparing salaries for the same job in Japan and overseas.If you come to Japan from overseas, your salary will not necessarily decreaseEven if your salary decreases, it doesn't necessarily mean your standard of living will also decreaseIf you come to Japan from overseas, your salary will not necessarily decreaseWhen comparing salaries for the same job in Japan and overseas, salaries in Japan tend to be slightly lower, but this does not necessarily mean that salaries will decrease for all jobs.Depending on the company, there are also cases where salaries are higher than overseas, and in some cases, you may be able to work under the same conditions as your standard of living overseas, taking into account your career and skills to date. The higher your career and skills, the more likely you will be to find a job in the same field with better conditions, and the more smoothly you will be able to negotiate your terms and conditions.Reference: 年収を上げる方法9選！転職しない場合とする場合に分けて、年収を上げるコツを紹介します！／Geekly MediaEven if your salary decreases, it doesn't necessarily mean your standard of living will also decreaseIf you compare salaries for the same job in Japan and overseas, there is a high possibility that your annual salary in Japan will decrease. However, if you take into account factors such as the cost of living and rent, even if your salary decreases, it does not necessarily mean that your standard of living will decrease. Depending on the area where you base your life, you may be able to live a rich life even if your salary does not reach the level of overseas salaries. The reason for this is the difference in prices between Japan and overseas.Differences in prices between Japan and other countriesNo matter how high your salary is, if prices are high, you won't be able to live a comfortable life. The differences in the consumer price index, which is an indicator of fluctuations in goods and services in Japan and major countries overseas, are as follows.[Consumer Price Index for Major Countries]2022年JuneJulyAugustSeptemberOctoberJapan2.4％2.6％3.0％3.0％3.7％United States9.1％8.5％8.3％8.2％7.7％United Kingdom9.4％10.1％9.9％10.1％－China2.5％2.7％2.5％2.8％2.1％Reference: 消費者物価指数 / 2020年基準消費者物価指数 / 月報／e-StatIf you look at the consumer price index for the US and UK, where salaries are higher than in Japan, you can see that the rate of price increase is higher than in Japan. Because salaries are higher, prices are also higher, so it can be said that even if you work in Japan, your standard of living is unlikely to decrease.Comparison of rent in Japan and overseas Just as rent varies from region to region in any country, there are also big differences in rent between overseas and Japan. Rent accounts for a large proportion of monthly expenditure, so it can also affect the standard of living.Assuming you rent a 70m2 house, we will introduce the world's rent prices in a ranking format.Singapore: 253,190 yenLondon: 194,110 yenNew York: 179,690 yenHong Kong: 179,400 yenTokyo: 151,000 yenJapan is also included in the ranking of rent prices, but there are many areas in Tokyo where rent is below 100,000 yen. In order to maintain your standard of living, it is important to keep your monthly rent as low as possible.Reference: 日本の家賃は世界で何位？ 世界の家賃相場をわかりやすく「図」で比較！／楽待What you need to earn a stable salary in JapanJapan is a country where salaries are relatively low compared to the rest of the world, so salaries for the same job are likely to be lower. For this reason, many people may find it difficult to take the plunge and find a job in Japan. However, it may be a waste to give up on working in Japan just because of the salary.To get a stable salary for the same job in Japan, be aware of the following five points.Choose a global company with a relatively high salaryHone skills that you can use at workAim to obtain qualificationsImprove your language skillsBuild a career in JapanChoose a global company with a relatively high salaryMany global companies adopt a performance-based system, so compared to Japanese companies, many of them have a higher average salary. Furthermore, global companies that operate overseas are always looking for talented people. In order to secure talented people, many companies also set their salaries high.If it is difficult to find a new job at a global company, we recommend using a job-placement service that specializes in global companies. If you are new to job-hunting in Japan, consider using a job-placement agency that can help you with things like visa acquisition and the selection process.Reference: 外資系企業の年収は日系企業の約2倍！その理由を徹底解説／35ishHone skills that you can use at workIn order to earn a stable income in Japan, it is also important to improve your expertise and hone your knowledge and skills in line with the times. You must never be satisfied with the status quo, and you must always remember to keep learning.By becoming a highly sought-after employee, you will also be able to move up to a higher position. If it is a field you are good at, you will be able to absorb information quickly, and you may be able to improve your expertise more efficiently.Reference: 100万人超の職歴分析で判明「年収が高くなる人」のスキル20選／JOB PICKSAim to obtain qualificationsAs well as differentiating yourself from others with your knowledge and skills, acquiring qualifications that are highly relevant to your work is also key to earning a stable income. However, qualifications that anyone can obtain are not very meaningful.It would be good to have a different perspective from others, such as in fields that other people are not looking at or in qualifications that are difficult to obtain. Even if it is a private qualification in Japan, if there is one that you can use in your work, it is worth studying.Reference: 【今が狙い目】学歴不問で年収アップに効く「スゴい資格」ベスト1／ DIAMOND onlineImprove your language skillsThe bigger the company, the higher the average annual salary and the easier it is to earn a stable income, but the bigger the company, the more language skills are required. In particular, in companies that have a lot of communication with overseas, the higher your language skills, the more highly you will be evaluated, and it is not uncommon for this to be reflected in your income. In addition to basic English, learning a language that is closely related to your work will be useful.In addition, there will be many opportunities to communicate in Japanese within the company. It is a good idea to make sure you have a good grasp of Japanese so that you can respond smoothly.Reference: 大卒外国人の採用、「高い日本語力」要求が壁に／日本経済新聞Build a career in JapanIn order to stabilize your income in Japan, it may be difficult without a career in Japan. You could decide on a job that will allow you to live comfortably, and live in Japan while building up your career until the right opportunity comes along.If you have the expertise to be an immediate asset, making use of the know-how you have cultivated up to this point, there is a high possibility that you will be able to work at the company and under the conditions you want. First of all, taking your time and carefully building up your experience may be the quickest way to stabilize your income in Japan.There can be differences in salary between overseas and Japan, even for the same jobThere can be differences in salary between overseas and Japan, even for the same job, for the three reasons we have introduced here. However, in many cases, living costs are higher overseas than in Japan, so even if your salary decreases in Japan, it does not necessarily mean that your standard of living will decrease. It is important to have a broad perspective, rather than just focusing on salary and other conditions.If you are thinking about changing jobs or finding a job in Japan, we recommend “G Talent” , a recruitment agency specializing in foreign IT personnel. You can have a job that suits you chosen based on your experience and skills to date, and the professionals at the recruitment agency will negotiate your salary and conditions on your behalf. You can also receive various support, such as support for the selection process, visa acquisition, and Japanese language, so it is also reassuring for those who are looking for a job in Japan for the first time.