Articles in English

How much difference is there in salary between Japan and other countries for the same job?

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.

Articles in English

Even if you are a foreigner with no experience, you can become an IT worker!

In Japan, foreign IT personnel are in demand due to the growing demand for IT workers and the shortage of labor caused by the declining birthrate. For this reason, even foreigners with no experience can easily succeed in changing careers to become IT personnel such as engineers. In this article, we will explain the key points for foreigners with no experience to succeed in changing careers to become IT personnel, how to obtain a work visa, and how to find a job.If you are worried about changing jobs in Japan, we recommend using an agency that can provide you with various kinds of support, such as visa and interview preparation, as well as support for your new employer. “G Talent”, which specializes in foreign IT personnel, also provides support in various languages.Even if you are a foreigner with no experience, it is easy to find a job as an IT professional!The IT industry and job types are ones where it is easy for foreign workers with no experience to succeed. The following are five reasons why it is easy for foreign workers with no experience to find a job as an IT professional.The demand for IT personnel is increasing in JapanThe working population is small due to the declining birthrateThe working environment for foreigners is being improvedNot influenced by age or nationalityYou can work even if you don't speak Japanese wellThe demand for IT personnel is increasing in JapanThe IT market is growing rapidly worldwide due to the spread of the internet, the development of AI and IoT, and the spread of 5G. The demand for IT personnel is also increasing in Japan, but the domestic supply of IT personnel is insufficient.According to the “Survey on IT Personnel Supply and Demand” released by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry in 2019, it is predicted that there will be a shortage of approximately 790,000 IT personnel by 2030. Amidst this growing demand, there is an accelerating trend to supplement the supply of IT personnel, which is not keeping up, with foreign IT personnel.Reference: 外国人がエンジニアになるために必要なビザの種類や申請方法と注意点[グローバルエンジニア2]/FellowshipThe working population is small due to the declining birthrateJapan is a country where the birthrate is declining and the working population is decreasing. Because the working population is insufficient, not just for IT personnel but for young people in Japan as a whole, the number of companies looking to recruit talented personnel from overseas has increased.In particular, there is a significant shortage of IT personnel due to factors such as the delay in IT education in Japan and the multi-tiered contracting structure of the IT industry, which makes it difficult to increase salaries. For this reason, even foreigners with no experience can easily find success in changing careers to become IT personnel.Reference: IT人材不足はなぜ?経済産業省のデータで解説/コエテコcampusThe working environment for foreigners is being improvedIn some companies, the official language of the company is English to make it easier for foreign IT workers to work there, even if they don't understand Japanese very well. The Ministry of Justice Immigration Bureau has established a “preferential system for immigration control and residence management based on a point system for highly skilled personnel” to promote the acceptance of foreign human resources, and is promoting the acceptance of foreign human resources in various fields, including IT personnel.Through such efforts in Japan, a working environment that is easy for foreigners to work in is being developed.Reference: 高度人材ポイント制による出入国在留管理上の優遇制度/出入国在留管理庁Not influenced by age or nationalityIT engineers are said to be a type of occupation where you can work regardless of your age or nationality. For this reason, it is an industry where even foreigners with no experience can easily try changing jobs. Many companies have work manuals in place, and it is also a feature that it is easy to work from inexperience. In recent years, many foreign IT personnel from countries such as China, South Korea, and Vietnam, as well as the United States and South America, are working in Japanese companies.Reference: 50代で就ける定年のない仕事とおすすめの資格10選/エイジレス思考You can work even if you don't speak Japanese wellSome Japanese companies are making progress in creating environments where foreign IT personnel who don't speak Japanese can also work. There are also companies that hire bridge personnel to help with communication between foreign IT personnel who don't speak Japanese and Japanese engineers, and it is also possible to change jobs to a company that has complete support so that foreign IT personnel don't have any problems.Some companies have made English the official language of the company and are strengthening their acceptance of foreign engineers, so even if you don't speak Japanese well, you can still work there.Reference: 多国籍エンジニアの技術育成を行うブリッジSEに聞いた、ボーダレスな組織マネジメントとは/The BEENOSThe key to successfully changing careers to become IT personnel for foreigners with no experienceThe key to successfully changing careers to become IT personnel for foreigners with no experience is as follows.Acquire IT knowledge and PC skillsLearn basic Japanese and business etiquetteGet used to Japanese culture and valuesAcquire IT knowledge and PC skillsEven if you have no experience, you should at least acquire some basic IT knowledge and PC skills. In addition to being able to use Word, Excel and PowerPoint, you will also need to be able to touch-type.To acquire IT knowledge, we recommend that you study for IT-related qualifications. When applying for a visa to work in Japan, having IT-related qualifications can be an advantage when applying for a visa. For more information on work visas, please refer to the second half of this article.Reference: IT関連資格での「技術・人文知識・国際業務ビザ」取得/外国人雇用・就労ビザステーションLearn basic Japanese and business etiquetteWhen changing jobs to a Japanese company, you should learn basic Japanese and business etiquette. This is because basic Japanese is sometimes necessary when communicating with members of the new company or when dealing with customers.Even if you only learn IT industry jargon and words commonly used in business situations in Japanese, your daily work will progress smoothly. There is no harm in learning at least the minimum amount of Japanese and etiquette.Reference: 外国人エンジニアを採用するコツとは|採用メリットとデメリットもご紹介/SunWellsGet used to Japanese culture and valuesJapan and other countries have different cultures and values, so if you learn about and get used to Japanese culture and customs, you can avoid culture shock. For example, time cards are not considered important overseas, but in Japan, time cards are used to strictly manage the times that employees arrive and leave work. Furthermore, in Japan, it is more highly regarded to work by following your boss's instructions without expressing your own opinions, but overseas, it is more common for people to be evaluated for actively expressing their own opinions and taking independent action.By understanding these kinds of cultural and value differences, you can work comfortably without worrying about gaps.Reference: 海外勤務の勤怠管理はどうする?注意点や英語対応のおすすめツールを紹介/ビズクロHow to obtain a work visa for foreign IT professionals with no experienceIn order to change careers to become an IT professional, foreign nationals with no experience need to obtain a work visa. The following is a guide to how to obtain a work visa and the key points to consider when doing so.What is a work visa?Foreign nationals who do not have Japanese nationality need to have a status of residence in order to stay and work in Japan. A work visa refers to a status of residence that is required for foreign nationals to work in Japan.As a work visa is essential for working in Japan and earning a salary, it is important to obtain one if you are an IT professional and want to change careers to work in Japan. In order to work in Japan as an IT professional, you will need to obtain a visa under the “Engineer” category of the “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” visa status.Reference: 就労ビザとは/就労ビザ申請サポート大阪In order to obtain a work visa, you must meet the requirements for qualification and permissionIn order to obtain a “Engineer” visa, which is a work visa required for foreign IT personnel, you must meet the following conditions.You must have majored in a subject related to the job you will be doing at university or a vocational school.You must receive a salary equivalent to or higher than that received by Japanese people in the same job.You must have at least 10 years (or 3 years, depending on the job type) of work experience. In the case of IT personnel such as engineers, it is possible to obtain a work visa without any academic background or work experience, provided that you have a qualification related to information processing technology as specified by the Ministry of Justice. Therefore, there is a chance to change jobs as a foreign IT worker even without any experience. If you would like to check which qualifications are applicable, please check the website of the Immigration Bureau of Japan.▶︎Immigration Bureau of Japan website is HEREProcedure for obtaining a work visaIn order to obtain a work visa, you need to check the details of the job and your resident status to make sure that the job is within the scope of your resident status. If the job is suitable for your resident status, you must sign a contract of employment before obtaining a work visa. After signing a formal contract of employment, you can then apply for a work visa.After signing a contract of employment, you must prepare the necessary documents and apply for permission to change your resident status. In order to obtain a “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” visa, you will need to submit an application for permission to acquire a status of residence to the regional immigration office that has jurisdiction over your place of residence, and you must do this within 30 days of the date on which your qualification is decided.Reference: 就労ビザの取得要件|企業の注意点や必要書類,審査期間を解説/第一綜合事務所It takes long time to get a visa!From the time you apply for a visa to the time you receive it, it can take around 2 to 3 months. If you delay your visa application, there is a possibility that you will not be able to receive your visa in time for your start date, so make sure you prepare for your work visa with as much time as possible.Reference: 審査には何日必要?就労ビザの在留期間なども詳しく解説/外国人採用サポネットHow to help inexperienced foreigners find work as IT professionalsThe following four methods can be used to help inexperienced foreigners find work as IT professionals.Search online for companies that hire foreign IT professionalsUse your connections to find companies that are looking for foreign IT professionalsJoin a community where foreign IT professionals gatherUse a job-placement agency that specializes in helping foreigners find workSearch online for companies that hire foreign IT professionalsSome IT companies post recruitment information on their company website, so if you find the right one, you can approach the company directly if you are looking for foreign IT personnel. Try searching online for “foreigners changing jobs” or “foreign engineers wanted”.If you apply directly from the company's recruitment website, you can carry out efficient job-hunting activities while communicating directly with the company's staff in charge.Reference: 転職で企業への「直接応募」はアリ? メリット・デメリットを解説/みんなの転職「体験談」Use your connections to find companies that are looking for foreign IT professionalsIt is also possible to find companies that are recruiting foreign workers using connections. By contacting foreign friends who are already working in Japan, there are cases where you can get a job at your friend's company. You can also hear about the work content, working environment, and conditions within the company, so you can get a realistic idea of the working environment.Reference: 外国人採用の6つの注意点!外国籍雇用のリスクと確認事項を解説/YOLO WORKJoin a community where foreign IT professionals gatherBy joining a community for foreign IT workers, you can also get information about job vacancies and job-hunting activities in Japan. In particular, online community activities have developed in recent years, so try looking for communities through the internet or SNS.In particular, we recommend LinkedIn and Wantedly, which are business-oriented social networking services. Unlike private social networking services such as X and Instagram, these are specialized for business use, and in other countries, using business-oriented social networking services to find a new job or advance your career is becoming more common. First, create an account and check out what kind of communities are available.Reference: 仕事に役立つソーシャルメディア「ビジネスSNS」を使うメリットとは? 代表的なサービス4選も紹介/GaiaxUse a job-placement agency that specializes in helping foreigners find workIn Japan, it is common to use job-search websites and job-change agencies when looking for a new job. In particular, for foreigners working in Japan for the first time, it is recommended that you use a job-change agency that not only helps you find a job, but also provides support for the selection process and visa acquisition. There are various types of job-change agencies, but by using a job-change agency that specializes in foreigners, you can be introduced to companies in a global environment that are aware of the characteristics of foreigners.“G Talent” is a recruitment agency that specializes in foreign IT personnel. It provides strong support for foreign IT engineers who want to work in Japan, and also lists job information for those with no experience. If you are a foreigner who wants to change careers to work in the IT industry in Japan, please use this service.Even foreigners with no experience can change careers to work in IT in Japan!The IT industry is facing a shortage of human resources to meet the growing demand, so it is an environment where even foreigners with no experience can easily change jobs. By acquiring basic Japanese language skills, business etiquette and PC skills, you will increase your chances of successfully changing jobs. Let's obtain a work visa correctly and change jobs in the correct way, and open up a path to working as a foreign IT worker with no experience.If you want to receive support not only for finding a new job, but also for things like the selection process, visa acquisition, and Japanese language, we recommend using a job change agent. “G Talent”, which specializes in foreign IT personnel, has been providing strong support for the job-hunting activities of foreigners who want to work in Japan. Our bilingual consultants, who are well-versed in the IT industry, will support the matching of companies and engineers, so please feel free to contact us even if you have no experience.

Articles in English

What is the market value of foreign engineers in Japanese companies?

The number of foreign engineers working in Japan has been increasing in recent years, and the market value of foreign engineers in Japanese companies is high. So, why is the market value of foreign engineers so high? In this article, we will explain the actual situation and reasons for the market value of foreign engineers in Japanese companies.We will also introduce you to ways that foreign engineers can find jobs that suit them, so this is a must-see for anyone thinking of working as a foreign engineer in Japan. Find out about the market value of foreign engineers in Japanese companies and find a job that matches your own value. If you are having trouble finding a job in Japan, please use the job agency “G Talent”, which specializes in foreign engineers.The market value of foreign engineers in Japanese companies is highThe shortage of IT personnel in Japan is becoming more serious, and the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry's “Survey on IT Personnel Demand” released in 2019 reported that IT personnel are in short supply due to changes in the IT demand structure.According to the report, there will be a shortage of 220,000 IT personnel in 2018, 260,000 in 2019, and 300,000 in 2020, and it is expected that there will be a shortage of approximately 410,000 to 790,000 IT personnel by 2030. Depending on how IT progresses in the future, it can be seen that the shortage of IT personnel in Japan is extremely serious.One area that is attracting attention as a way to make up for the shortage of IT personnel is the recruitment of foreign IT engineers. According to the “Notification of Employment Status of Foreigners” published by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, the number of foreign engineers working in Japan with a visa that allows them to work in Japan, “specialist/technical field status of residence”, is increasing year by year, and their market value appears to be increasing.In 2021, 394,509 people were working in Japan with the above visa, an increase of 9.7% compared to the previous year. Comparing the five years between 2014 and 2019, the number of foreign nationals working with the same visa status in 20 In 2014, the number of foreign nationals working in Japan with the same status of residence was 147,296, while in 2019, this figure was 329,034, recording a 2.2-fold increase over the five-year period. Against the backdrop of the continuing shortage of IT personnel in Japan, it can be predicted that the market value of foreign engineers will continue to rise in the future.Reference: 「外国人雇用状況」の届出状況まとめ【本文】(令和3年 10 月末現在)/厚生労働省What countries do foreign engineers working for Japanese companies come from?According to the “Employment Status of Foreigners” report by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, the countries of origin of foreign engineers in the IT and other information and communications industries are mainly from East and Southeast Asia. China is in first place, followed by South Korea in second place, Vietnam in third place, and the United States in fourth place.There are also many foreign IT engineers from the Philippines, Nepal, Indonesia, Brazil and Peru working for Japanese companies. This shows that the market value of IT engineers from all over the world is high, regardless of their nationality.Reference: 「外国人雇用状況」の届出状況表一覧(令和3年10月末現在)/厚生労働省Reasons for the high market value of foreign engineersThere are five reasons why foreign engineers are highly valued in Japanese companies.Shortage of engineers in Japanese companiesMany Japanese companies are looking for excellent engineers who can hit the ground runningAble to bring in ideas that Japanese people don't haveAble to invigorate the companySupport for overseas expansionShortage of engineers in Japanese companiesIn many Japanese companies, a serious shortage of engineers is a problem. In particular, Japan is seriously behind in IT education, and programming and IT education, which have been introduced in other countries 5 to 10 years ago, will only become compulsory in elementary schools in Japan in 2021. In other words, Japanese IT education is more than 5 years behind that of other countries.This delay in education is one of the reasons why there is a shortage of Japanese engineers. In order to solve the shortage of engineers in Japan, the market value of foreign IT engineers is increasing.Reference: 日本は遅れてる?海外のプログラミング教育の現状!/コエテコMany Japanese companies are looking for excellent engineers who can hit the ground runningThe market value of foreign engineers is increasing because many Japanese companies are looking for excellent engineers who can hit the ground running. Many Japanese companies used to hire large numbers of new graduates and then train them in-house over time. On the other hand, educational institutions around the world are training excellent human resources who are just as capable as those who can be immediately put to work upon graduation from university.For example, at Mercari, 90% of the new graduate engineers hired in 2019 were foreign engineers from countries such as India. Some of the students from India were hired as excellent human resources after graduating from ITT, India's most prestigious and famous IT university.There are also countries like Vietnam that are developing their own IT human resources development policies. Rather than competing with each other to recruit talented people in Japan, where the labor force is declining, it is easier to find people who can be an immediate asset if you look at the world. This is one of the reasons why foreign engineers have a high market value.Reference: メルカリの新卒エンジニア9割が外国人、インドの次はどの国から採る?/DIAMOND onlineAble to bring in ideas that Japanese people don't haveForeign engineers have ideas and concepts that Japanese people don't have, and they are also quick to catch up with IT trends, which is another reason for their high market value. The world trends and ideas that foreign engineers bring to Japanese companies expand the information network and job options.There are systems and services that are commonplace overseas but do not yet exist in Japan, and there are also things that Japanese people would never think of. Because there is the possibility of coming up with ideas from completely different angles that Japanese people would never think of, this could be the impetus for the development of new products and services.Reference: 外国人ITエンジニア採用のメリットと注意点!/MichaelPageAble to invigorate the companyWorking with foreign engineers can revitalize the company, which is another reason why they are highly valued in the market. Many foreign engineers are very serious about their work, and they can deliver excellent performance even under tight deadlines and development conditions. Many of them also have a strong desire to grow, so working with foreign engineers can also be a stimulus for Japanese employees.Foreign engineers bring different cultures and values into the company, and this can sometimes lead to a shift from inefficient work practices to more rational methods. Exposure to different values can lead to the creation of a flexible and diverse organization.Reference: 不安だった初めての外国人採用、今は“日本人職員に刺激を与える存在”に。活躍の鍵は「安心して仕事ができる環境づくり」/Touch! PERSOLSupport for overseas expansionThere are also market value reasons for hiring foreign engineers who can support overseas expansion, such as becoming a bridge when expanding the company's services overseas. There are many companies that want to expand not only into the shrinking Japanese market, but also into the world. Rather than having Japanese people who don't know the local area working on projects, the presence of foreign engineers who know the real market and can understand foreign languages is a great support.Reference: 外国人労働者を採用するメリット6つ|採用する時の注意点も紹介/株式会社オープンアップITエンジニアHow foreign engineers can find jobs that suit themThere are three ways for foreign engineers to find jobs at Japanese companies with high market value.Use job sites specializing in foreign engineersUse job agencies for foreignersSearch for companies that are hiring foreign engineersUse job sites specializing in foreign engineersThere are various job sites in Japan, but because general job sites have a large number of companies listed, it is difficult to find jobs for foreign engineers. If you want to efficiently find jobs for foreign engineers with high market value, try using a job site that specializes in foreign engineer employment. Because companies that want to hire excellent foreign engineers are registered, you can save time and effort collecting information and reach many companies.One of the leading job sites specializing in foreign engineers is "GitTap". With over 500 jobs registered from global companies, you can find a job that matches your preferences. When you register, you may receive a job offer from a company, so why not start with a free registration?Use job agencies for foreignersIf you are looking for a job in Japan for the first time, you may need support not only with finding a job, but also with things like designing your career in Japan, interview practice, and obtaining a visa. For people like this, we recommend using a recruitment agency that provides various types of support, rather than a job search website. They can assess each job seeker's skills and aptitude, and introduce them to companies that match their skills. You can also leave it to them to provide support for things like writing a resume and interview practice, which are different from other countries.We recommend the recruitment agency 'G Talent' for foreign engineers. Only carefully selected, high-quality companies from over 300 companies are registered, and registered users can take Japanese interview lessons for free. Please feel free to register as you will be supported by bilingual advisors who are familiar with the IT industry.▶︎To register "G Talent" is HERESearch for companies that are recruiting foreign engineersEven if you don't use job sites or recruitment agencies, it is possible to search for companies that are recruiting foreign engineers and reach out to them yourself. Some Japanese IT companies have their own recruitment sites, so if you apply directly, you can save yourself the trouble of going through a recruitment agency.In this case, you will have to communicate directly with the company yourself. You will need a work visa to work in Japan, so make sure you check how much support the company will provide.Reference: 転職は直接応募が有利なの?メリット・デメリットを知っておこう!/イーキャリアFA3 things foreign engineers should check before working for a Japanese companyAlthough Japanese companies have a high market value for foreign engineers, the following points must be taken into account in order to continue working comfortably at a Japanese company.Need a work visa to work at a Japanese companyNeed to be able to speak basic JapaneseBe aware of differences in values and cultureNeed a work visa to work at a Japanese companyForeign engineers need a work visa to work in Japan. There are several types of work visas, and foreign engineers can work in Japan if they obtain a “highly-specialized professional” visa or a “technology, humanities, and international services” visa with the “technology” status of residence.There are conditions for obtaining each type of visa. As it takes around 2-3 months from the time you prepare the documents to the time the application is processed, you should start preparing for your visa as soon as you receive your job offer.Reference: 外国人労働者のエンジニア就労ビザ取得/就労ビザ申請サポート大阪Need to be able to speak basic JapaneseIn order to work comfortably in a Japanese company, you need to be able to speak basic Japanese. This is because you will need basic Japanese when communicating with your team members and participating in business negotiations with customers.Even if you only learn the basic IT terminology and words commonly used in business situations, it will be useful in your day-to-day work. However, some IT companies have English as their official company language, or they employ bridge personnel to help with communication between foreign and Japanese engineers, so they have created an environment where foreign engineers can work even if they don't understand much Japanese. There's no need to worry too much, but it's not a bad idea to learn at least the minimum level of Japanese and manners.Reference: 英語公用語化でエンジニア採用応募者が激増 IT企業が見出した、グローバルに働く秘訣/logmiBizBe aware of differences in values and cultureIf you are aware that there are differences in culture and values between Japan and other countries, you will be able to work in Japan without suffering culture shock. For example, in other countries, people are valued for their willingness to speak up and make suggestions, and for their willingness to take on new challenges without being afraid of making mistakes, but in Japan, there are also environments where people are expected to follow their boss's instructions without asserting their own opinions too much.There are many differences in values and culture in the business world, so it is important to understand these differences so that you don't suffer culture shock every time you encounter them.Reference: 異文化理解のメリットとは?異文化理解の必要性や注意点も紹介/Bizmates BlogThe market value of foreign engineers is high! Let's find a workplace that suits you!In this article, we have explained the market value of foreign engineers in Japanese companies. The market value of foreign engineers in Japanese companies is on the rise, and the number of foreign engineers working in Japan is also increasing. The trend of hiring excellent foreign engineers will continue to accelerate in the future.If you are a foreign engineer looking for a company that suits you in Japan, we recommend the recruitment agency “G Talent”, which specializes in hiring foreign engineers. Bilingual consultants support the matching of foreign IT engineers with Japanese companies that are actively hiring foreigners, and help you to start your career in Japan. If you are an IT engineer interested in a career in Japan, please use 'G Talent'.

Articles in English

If you want to work as a foreign engineer, which is better, a major company or a venture company?

There are many different types of companies in Japan, including both major corporations and venture companies, and for foreign engineers who are not familiar with Japanese business culture, this can be a point of confusion when deciding where to work. Major corporations and venture companies each have their own differences, advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to know the differences between them and work at a company that suits you. In this article, we will explain the differences between major Japanese companies and venture companies, as well as the points to keep in mind when working for either type of company. Foreign engineers who wish to find employment in Japan can use the foreign engineer-focused job change agency "G Talent" to efficiently find a company that suits them.Which should foreign engineers choose: a major company or a venture company?When foreign engineers work in Japan, they may be unsure about whether to work for a major company or a venture company. However, even though we call them all foreign engineers, their personalities and characteristics differ from person to person, so it is not possible to say which is better in general.It is important to choose a company that suits each foreign engineer, without being too fixated on major companies or venture companies.However, it is also true that there are differences and characteristics between many of the major companies and venture companies in Japan. By knowing the differences and characteristics between major companies and venture companies, you can reduce the gap for foreign engineers after joining a company. Let's use this article as a reference to understand the differences between major companies and venture companies in Japan.Reference: 私のキャリア遍歴に基づくマインドセット論〜大企業⇒ベンチャー⇒そしてフリーランスへ〜/Tech Team JournalThe differences between major and venture companies in the Japanese engineering professionIn Japan, there is a shortage of Japanese IT personnel, so both major and venture companies are focusing on hiring foreign engineers. In order to avoid any regrets for foreign engineers, it is important to understand the differences between major and venture companies. The main differences are summarized in the table below. Major companyVenture companyScale of projects involvedLarge scaleSmall scale/subcontractingWork/scope of responsibilityDesign work possible from first yearFirst year is simple programming and system constructionSense of speedSlowFastSalary level/salary increaseSalary is highSalary increases easilySalary tends to be lower than large companiesSalary increase speed depends on performanceCareer path systemDifficult to be evaluated depending on companyEasy to be evaluatedExtent of welfare benefitsExtensiveDepends on the companyHuman resources development systemExtensiveDepends on the companyEase of taking time off and holidaysDifficult to take in companies or departments with complicated labor managementDepends on the company's system and atmosphereLet's take a closer look at the differences between them.Scale of the projects involvedLarge companies often handle large-scale projects, while venture companies often take on smaller projects than large companies. Large companies often take on projects for major banks, securities companies, and government systems, and if a problem were to occur, it could have a large-scale impact.Because they are large companies with a high level of trust, they often take on large-scale projects, but because the projects themselves are large-scale, the number of people involved is also large, so it may be difficult for each individual to feel that they were involved in the system.On the other hand, venture companies develop relatively small-scale systems with a small number of people, and there are also venture companies that are contracted to take on the downstream development process from large companies.Reference: 大手企業へのエンジニア転職ってどう?中小との違いを解説!/イーデスWork/scope of responsibilityIn major companies, you can get involved in requirement definition and system design from as early as your first year. This is because some major companies outsource programming work to venture companies and only perform the upstream process of development. For foreign engineers who want to be involved in the upstream process from an early stage, it can be said that it is easier to seize opportunities at major companies.In the case of venture companies and small and medium-sized companies, if they are often subcontracted by major companies, there are many downstream processes such as programming. However, there is the advantage that there is a high possibility of being able to oversee the entire project.Reference: 【どちらが良いか】ITベンチャー企業と大手企業のメリット・デメリット比較/IT転職辞書Sense of speedIn large companies, there are communication and procedural barriers between each department within the company, so the sense of speed in work tends to be slow. However, in venture companies, the distance to management is close and the procedures for obtaining approval are simple, so the speed of decision-making tends to be fast. In venture companies with a strong spirit of challenge, it seems that some companies will immediately put forward ideas in meetings and try anything before thinking about it.Reference: 大手企業とは? 定義や中小企業との違い、メリット・デメリットを紹介/マイナビ転職Salary level/salary increaseMajor companies tend to have well-established systems such as bonuses and allowances, and annual salary increases. Therefore, compared to venture companies and small and medium-sized companies, engineers generally earn higher salaries and are more likely to see their annual income increase.Venture companies tend to be unstable, with bonuses being cut in years of poor performance, for example, while bonuses may be high in years of good performance. The salary structure differs greatly from company to company, so it is difficult to generalize, but salaries are often lower than at major companies. However, in the case of venture companies, salaries may increase in line with your abilities.Reference: 年収一挙公開!大手VSベンチャーどっちが給料多い!?/Tech総研Career path systemIn large companies, it is difficult to see an individual's performance because of the established evaluation, promotion and training systems. If your direct supervisor does not conduct the personnel evaluation, there are many cases where good performance does not lead to a good evaluation.In venture companies, the distance between the management and the employees is short, so it is easy for your performance to be reflected directly in your evaluation. It can also be said that it is an environment where you have many opportunities to demonstrate your skills and ideas.Reference: 大手とベンチャー、エンジニアの仕事内容とキャリアの違い/assign navi magazineExtent of welfare benefitsLarge companies often have well-developed welfare systems. They provide generous support, including a full range of pension and insurance programs, company housing, and rent subsidies. Some venture companies also work to create a comfortable working environment, but compared to large companies, they tend to have less generous benefits and welfare systems.Reference: スタートアップ企業に福利厚生はあるの?その他企業との違いや具体例を徹底解説/ベンチャー就活ナビHuman resources development systemLarge companies tend to have well-established training and human resources development systems. They offer support for employees who want to improve their language skills, as well as training to improve their specialist skills. Foreign engineers may also be able to find companies that offer Japanese language support.In the case of venture companies, the extent to which they have well-developed human resources training systems tends to depend greatly on the company's performance and the management's policies.Reference: ベンチャーの研修制度ってどうなってるの?研修制度のあるベンチャーの見つけ方を紹介/ベンチャー就活ナビEase of taking time off and holidaysThere are engineers who work hard even at large companies, but because many companies have strict limits on working hours, there are not many companies that exceed the prescribed overtime hours. However, many venture companies are trying out various new things, and compared to large companies, there is a tendency for working hours to be longer. However, because venture companies tend to adopt flexible working hours and discretionary labor systems, it is easier to achieve a flexible working style.In addition to working hours, major companies also tend to make it easier to take holidays. This is because major companies tend to have more staff than venture companies, so it is easier to find a replacement for them in terms of work.Reference: 大企業とベンチャーの違い、フィットしやすい人の違いとは?/notePoints to note for working in a major or venture company in Japan as a foreign engineerThere are three things to be aware of when working as a foreign engineer at a major or venture company in Japan.A work visa is requiredJapanese language skills are requiredUnderstand cultural differencesA work visa is requiredIn order to work as a foreign engineer in Japan, you will need a work visa. There are several types of work visas, but in order to work as a foreign engineer, you will need to obtain a “technology” visa under the “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” residency status.In order to obtain the “Engineer” status of residence, you must either have “at least 10 years of work experience” or “have studied a subject related to the job you will be doing at university or a vocational school”, or you must have a qualification in information technology as specified by the Ministry of Justice, and you will be required to have experience, qualifications and study hours in order to obtain the visa.Even after you have submitted your application documents, it takes time to be approved, so you should prepare for your work visa in advance so that you don't make the mistake of not being able to obtain a work visa even though you have received a job offer.Reference: 外国人エンジニアに必要な在留資格や就労可能な職種の種類、注意点[グローバルエンジニア2]/FellowshipJapanese language skills are requiredIn order for foreign engineers to work in Japan without any problems, they should acquire basic Japanese language skills and business etiquette. Even foreign engineers who have been hired may need to communicate with their superiors and colleagues or participate in business negotiations with customers. By acquiring Japanese language skills, it will be possible to respond and deal with situations in a way that is not rude as a businessperson.If you learn IT jargon and words commonly used in business situations in Japanese, it will be useful for communicating with your boss and colleagues and for your work.Reference: どうする?外国人労働者の日本語教育問題|教育方法やコミュニケーションに大切なこと/外国人採用サポネットUnderstand cultural differencesIf you are a foreign engineer working in Japan, it is important to understand that different cultures and values are emphasized in Japan and overseas. For example, in overseas countries, people are valued for their attitude of speaking up and taking on challenges without being afraid of making mistakes, but in Japan, there are still some values that place importance on following the instructions of one's superiors and carrying out one's work without expressing one's own opinions.Furthermore, there is a possibility that there are aspects of the workplace culture that foreigners may not understand, such as not being able to go home because the boss is still working even though you have finished your work, or strict control over the start and finish times of the working day. In order to avoid culture shock, it is important to understand the unique working culture that remains in Japan.Reference: 日本で働く外国人社員 ヒアリング調査結果『日本語はムズカシイ?日本語だけの問題じゃない?』~日本で働く外国人社員に聞いた、日本語コミュニケーションの課題とは~/PR TIMESLet's work as a foreign engineer at a major Japanese company or a venture company!In this article, we have explained the differences between major companies and venture companies, as well as the points to note when working as a foreign engineer in Japan. After learning about the differences between major companies and venture companies, choose the environment you want to work in. Foreign engineers should use the three points we have introduced here as a reference to start their careers in Japan.For foreign engineers looking for a company that suits them in Japan, we recommend using the job-placement agency “G Talent”, which specializes in foreign IT engineers. They support the job-hunting and career-change activities of foreign engineers who want to work in Japan, and introduce companies that match their experience and abilities. They also provide support for interview preparation and visa acquisition, so if you want to work at a major or venture company in Japan, please be sure to use "G Talent".

Articles in English

Explanation of the qualifications and application procedures required to apply for employment as a foreign engineer

When foreign engineers apply for employment with Japanese companies, they need to have different qualifications and apply in a different way to when they are looking for work in their own country. In order to get hired smoothly, it is important for foreign engineers to know the qualifications and application methods they need to get hired in Japan.In this article, we will explain the types of residence status and application methods required for foreign engineers to be hired by Japanese companies, as well as the points to note and the types of foreign engineers who are hired by Japanese companies. For foreign engineers who want to be hired in Japan, your chances of being hired will increase if you make use of the job-placement agency “G Talent”, which specializes in foreign engineers.Residence status required for foreign engineers to be hired by Japanese companiesThe following four types of residence status are available to foreign engineers seeking employment at Japanese companies.Highly Skilled ProfessionalEngineer/Specialist in Humanities/International ServicesDesignated ActivitiesResidence Status Based on Status or Status of ResidenceHighly Skilled ProfessionalHighly-Skilled Professional is a residence status for hiring talented people from overseas. It is approved for a variety of occupations in Japan, and you can work as an engineer.The Highly-Skilled Professional visa application screening criteria has introduced a “Highly-Skilled Professional Points System”. Academic background, work experience, research achievements at universities, annual income, bonuses, etc. are used as screening criteria, and if you have more than 70 points, you can obtain a visa.If you meet conditions such as graduating from a famous university or graduate school, obtaining JLPT N1, or having an annual income of over 4 million yen, you have a high chance of being eligible for a Highly-Skilled Professional visa.Reference: 外国人エンジニアを採用するときに必要な在留資格の条件・申請方法/jopus bizEngineer/Specialist in Humanities/International ServicesIn the case of foreign engineers, if they meet the technical requirements, they can work as engineers under the Engineer, Specialist in Humanities/International Services status of residence. In order to obtain the Engineer status of residence, in addition to the conditions for foreign workers, there are also conditions for the company that will be accepting the foreign worker. We will explain each of these conditions in detail.Conditions for obtaining a “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” visaIn order to meet the requirements for a “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” visa, you must either have “at least 10 years of work experience” or “have majored in a subject related to the job you will be doing at university or a vocational school”.However, if you have passed an examination on information processing technology set by the Ministry of Justice, you may be exempted from the academic and work experience requirements. It is helpful to obtain an appropriate IT-related examination conducted in your home country to obtain a visa.You can check the items of the examination on information processing technology set by the Ministry of Justice on the Ministry of Justice website. For example, the following qualifications are recognized by the Ministry of Justice for Vietnamese engineers to obtain a “technology” visa status in order to be employed in Japan.The following examinations conducted by the High-Tech Incubation Training Center (HITC)(1) Fundamental Information Technology Engineer Examination(2) Applied Information Technology Engineer ExaminationExaminations conducted by the Vietnam Information Technology Examination and Training Support Center or the Vietnam Training and Examination Center, including the following(1) Fundamental Information Technology Engineer Examination(2) Software development engineer (software design and development engineer) test(3) Applied information technology engineer (applied information technology engineer) testIn addition, the company that employs the foreign engineer must meet three conditions: “specialization and relevance of job content”, “remuneration equivalent to or higher than that of Japanese employees”, and “business stability and continuity”. By fulfilling all of these conditions, it will be possible to accept foreign engineers.Reference: 入国管理及び難民認定法第七条第一項第二号の基準を定める省令の技術・人文知識・国際業務の在留資格に係る基準の特例を定める件/出入国在留管理庁Designated ActivitiesDesignated Activities is a work visa that can be obtained by foreigners who are engaged in specific activities that do not fall under any other status of residence. For example, this includes working holiday makers, students looking for work after graduating from school, students in Japan on internships, spouses of highly-skilled foreign professionals, and domestic helpers for diplomats.However, as the “special activities” visa is a short-stay visa for 6 months or 1 year, in order to work for a long period of time, it is necessary to switch to a status of residence such as “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services”.Reference: 在留資格「特定活動」/出入国在留管理庁Status of Residence Based on Status or StatusThere are four types of status of residence that have no restrictions on working: permanent resident, spouse or child of Japanese national, spouse or child of permanent resident, and long-term resident. As you can work in the same way as Japanese people, there is no need to apply for a status of residence.Reference: 「就労に制限のある在留資格」と「就労に制限のない在留資格」/行政書士・社会保険労務士永井弘行事務所How to apply for a residency status to apply for employment as a foreign engineerTo smoothly apply for a residency status to apply for employment as a foreign engineer, please familiarize yourself with the following procedures.Necessary documentsFlow of proceduresNecessary documentsIf you meet the requirements for obtaining a visa that allows you to work in Japan, you should prepare the documents you will submit to the Immigration Bureau. The foreign national themselves will need to prepare things like their graduation certificate, resume, and passport.As there are many documents that need to be prepared, it is important to do so with plenty of time to spare. If you have any worries or problems regarding work visas, you can consult with a government-certified lawyer, although there will be a fee.The company that will be accepting you will also need to prepare documents. The documents that companies prepare will differ depending on the size of the company, and the smaller the company, the more documents they will need to prepare.You can check the details of the necessary documents on the Ministry of Justice website. As the documents will differ depending on the visa you are applying for, you should check the documents required for the status of residence (such as Highly Skilled Professional, or Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services) that is likely to be approved based on your career history.Reference: 【2021年版】 図で分かる就労ビザの必須書類一式/jopus bizFlow of proceduresObtaining a visa requires a period of 2 weeks to 1 month from the preparation of documents to the application. It takes about 1 to 2 months until the results of the screening are announced.If you need to apply for a change of status of residence or visa, you should allow for the time it takes to process your application, as well as the time it takes to join the company. From receiving an offer to joining the company, you should allow approximately 2 to 3 months.Reference: 外国人採用するなら知っておくべき就労ビザ取得期間 ビザ申請が間に合わないと国外退去になってしまうの?/Guidable JobsPoints to note when foreign engineers apply for a residence statusWhen foreign engineers apply for a residence status, there are three points to note.If the actual work content differs from the residence status, it will be considered illegal employmentThere may be cases where it takes time to be approvedThere are also ways to acquire information processing technology qualifications in place of academic background and work experienceIf the actual work content differs from the residence status, it will be considered illegal employmentEven if you are hired as an engineer, if the actual work you do is different to the content of your visa status, you will be considered to be working illegally. Before you are hired, be sure to check the details of the work you will be doing.For example, if you are hired as an engineer but the actual work you do is general office work, you will be working illegally.Reference: 外国人エンジニアに必要な在留資格や就労可能な職種の種類、注意点[グローバルエンジニア2]/FellowshipThere may be cases where it takes time to be approvedFrom the time you apply for a work visa until the screening process is complete, it may take some time. To ensure that your status of residence is in order by the time you start work as an engineer, you should allow yourself plenty of time.We recommend that you allow yourself around 2 to 3 months from the time you are confirmed as an employee to the time you start work.Reference: 就労ビザの審査期間はどのくらい?/外国人雇用&就労ビザ相談センターThere are also ways to acquire information processing technology qualifications in place of academic background and work experienceIn order to acquire a status of residence of “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services”, you must either have “at least 10 years of work experience” or “have majored in a subject related to the duties you will be engaged in at university or a vocational school”. However, even if you do not have work experience or a university major related to the job you want to do, you may be able to have the requirement waived by passing an information technology exam set by the Ministry of Justice.If you are a foreign engineer who wants to work in Japan as an engineer with no experience, you may be able to work in Japan by studying to pass a qualification exam.Reference: 技術ビザ - IT資格/TN行政書士事務所Types of jobs for foreign engineers who are hired by Japanese companiesThere are many different types of engineers. The following are some of the types of foreign engineers who have been employed by Japanese companies.ProgrammerSoftware engineerSystems engineerSecurity engineerIT consultantProject leaderProject managerProgrammerProgrammers are software and systems programmers who work based on the specifications created by engineers in upstream processes such as systems engineers, project managers and project leaders.They are required to have the ability to investigate and solve problems on their own, such as adjusting for program deficiencies and finding and fixing bugs.Reference: プログラマーとは?なり方や仕事内容、将来性を紹介/デジタルハリウッド大学Software EngineerSoftware engineers are in charge of developing a wide range of software, including PC and smartphone applications, and applications that control home appliances and public transportation. Their duties include development, design, software operation and maintenance, and testing.This is a job that requires knowledge and skills in development environments and programming, as well as communication skills with customers and team members.Reference: ソフトウェアエンジニアになるには?必要なスキルや年収を紹介/HiPro TechSystem EngineerA system engineer is a job that involves defining system development requirements, designing, testing, etc. In some cases, the system engineer only defines the requirements and creates specifications, leaving the actual programming to the programmers. This is a job that requires communication skills with the people involved.The way you work will differ depending on the company. You may work for a company that receives orders for system development, or you may work as an in-house SE, developing, designing, operating and maintaining the systems needed within the company.Reference: SE(システムエンジニア)とは?SEの仕事内容と年収/IT業界まるわかりガイドSecurity EngineerSecurity engineers are engineers who work on servers, infrastructure, and information security. They design and develop systems to protect them from cyber attacks.This is a job that requires a high level of information sensitivity, as you need to be quick to catch information about security and respond to evolving cyber attacks.IT ConsultantIT consultants are consultants who provide advice on all aspects of IT in client companies, propose system development and improvement, and provide support for implementation.They target clients who are having issues in the IT field, and propose solutions using IT technology. They are required to have the ability to think and make proposals, identifying the cause of the problem and proposing and developing appropriate solutions.Reference: 【需要増加】ITコンサルタントとは!?具体的な仕事内容や年収、有利な資格まで網羅的に解説!!/Executive LinkProject LeaderThe project leader is responsible for managing the progress of development, quality control and development team members as the leader of one section of the overall project under the management of the project manager. Working as a project leader opens the door to promotion to project manager.Reference: プロジェクトリーダーとは?仕事内容や必要なスキル、おすすめ資格を紹介/株式会社システムインテグレータProject ManagerAs the manager of the entire project, you will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including budget and schedule management, product quality control, and team member management. System engineers, programmers, and software engineers can advance to the position of project leader or project manager by gaining experience.Foreign engineers who want to work in Japan can get hired through “G Talent”In this article, we have explained the qualifications and application procedures required to apply for employment as a foreign engineer. The main types of residence status that allow you to work as an engineer in Japan are “Highly Skilled Professional” and “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services”.Check the necessary documents, the flow of procedures, and points to note, and make sure your application goes smoothly. There are various types of jobs available for foreign engineers in Japan. Get the necessary residence status and try your hand at building a career in Japan.Foreign engineers who want to get a job in Japan should use the job-placement agency “G Talent”, which specializes in foreign IT engineers. We provide strong support for foreign IT engineers who want to work in Japan, and you can also receive generous visa acquisition support.

Articles in English

What level of expertise is required of foreign engineers working for Japanese companies?

When foreign engineers work in Japan, the higher their level of expertise, the better the conditions they can expect to find at a company. However, many people are probably wondering just how high the level of expertise required is. In this article, we will explain the level of expertise required of foreign engineers when working for a Japanese company.In addition to the level of expertise, we will also introduce the skills that are often required of foreign engineers, what foreign engineers should do in order to work at a Japanese company, and the content of their studies. There are many situations where foreign engineers with expertise can play an active role in Japan, so let's acquire high-level skills and expertise and grow into IT engineers who can play an active role in Japan.If you are looking to change jobs to a company that matches your desired conditions, we recommend using the job-change agency “G Talent”. This job-change agency specializes in high-level foreign engineers, and provides a variety of support to help you succeed in Japan.What level of IT expertise is required of foreign engineers in Japanese companies?First, we will explain the level of expertise required of foreign engineers in Japanese companies, divided into the following categories.Programming skillsIndustry knowledgeDevelopment environment software operation skillsGeneral IT skillsThe level of expertise required for each of these areas will vary depending on the company and position you work in. Please use the following as a rough guide to the level of expertise required when working for a Japanese company.Programming skillsOne of the key areas of expertise required of foreign engineers is programming skills. You will need to acquire the skills to be able to work in the development of programs, systems and applications. In terms of study hours, you will need to study for at least 1000 hours.In order to work as a programmer or systems engineer from day one, it is desirable to have around three years of work experience. Before starting work in Japan, it is possible to work for a Japanese company as an experienced worker with at least one to three years of industry experience in your home country.However, there are also moves by famous Japanese IT companies to hire foreign engineers with no experience as new graduates. By achieving results during your time at university, there is a possibility that you can find employment at a Japanese IT company even if you have no experience or a high level of expertise.Reference: プログラミングの勉強時間はどれくらい?おすすめの勉強方法についても紹介/QUREOプログラミング教室Industry knowledgeKnowledge of the IT industry is also essential as a specialist who keeps up with technology trends. As trends in the IT industry tend to change easily, many companies are looking for ideas to utilize high-profile technologies on a daily basis. In Japan, there are many companies that want to stand out from the crowd by adopting new technologies that are popular overseas, so as a foreigner working in Japan, there is a high chance that you will be appreciated if you can bring trends from your home country or the world to Japanese companies.If you have a good grasp of the information on famous IT companies in Japan and learn about the services of companies that are competitors of the company you are going to work for, it will be useful after you join the company.Reference: ITの知識とは?IT業界へ就職を目指す学生に向けて徹底解説/レバテックルーキーDevelopment environment software operation skillsSystem development technology and software development technology, as well as the operating methods for each, are also areas of expertise that are in high demand for engineers. The reason Japanese companies go to the trouble of hiring foreign engineers is because there are not many excellent engineers in Japan, and they want to employ people from overseas who can make an immediate contribution. For this reason, after joining a company, it is often the case that you will be expected to be able to operate development environment software, and you will be involved in programming and system development work.Reference: ITエンジニアに必要な基礎スキル47|おすすめの勉強法を紹介!/.NET ColumnGeneral IT skillsNo matter what company you work for or what position you hold, as an engineer you need to have basic IT expertise and PC skills. It is a good idea to have knowledge of software and hardware, networks and security While foreign IT engineers have a high level of expertise in their own specialized fields, they may not be able to perform tasks outside of their own specialized fields or tasks related to the pre- and post-processes of their work. In Japan, you may have to perform all the processes related to your work, so there may be times when your broad knowledge of IT will be useful.Reference: 外国人の雇用やビザ申請でお困りの企業様へ/就労ビザ申請サポート池袋About the IT Skill Standard (ITSS) Level EvaluationTo prove your IT skills, we recommend using the IT Skill Standard (ITSS), a system developed by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry to visualize the expertise of IT personnel. ITSS quantifies the expertise and skills currently possessed by IT personnel, and clarifies which expertise and skills are lacking and which need to be strengthened in the future.Some Japanese companies use ITSS not only for skill evaluation but also for personnel assessment, so as a foreign IT engineer considering working in Japan, you should check out the existence of ITSS.ITSS has seven levels, and is linked to the IT Passport Exam (ITSS Level 1), the Fundamental Information Technology Engineer Exam (ITSS Level 2), and the Advanced Information Technology Engineer Exam (ITSS Level 3). There are 11 different job categories, ranging from marketing and sales to IT architect and IT specialist.Reference: ITスキル標準(ITSS)とは?【スキルマップ】職種・レベル一覧/kaonaviOther specializations required of foreign engineers by Japanese companiesIn addition to IT expertise, the following three specializations are also required of foreign engineers by Japanese companies.Communication skillsLanguage skillsLogical thinking skillsCommunication skillsIT engineers often have to communicate with other members of the development team and with customers. They are required to have advanced communication skills that enable them to understand the intentions of the other party and then convey their own opinions.Make sure you have mastered basic Japanese language skills and business etiquette so that you don't offend your superiors or customers. If you learn IT technical terms and words commonly used in business situations in Japanese, you will be able to carry out your work smoothly.Reference: 日本で外国人がITエンジニアになるには?必要なスキルや会社の選び方[グローバルエンジニア2]/FellowshipLanguage skillsAs a worker in Japan, it is not a bad idea to have a certain level of Japanese language ability. Depending on the position you work in, Japanese language ability may not be a priority and only IT skills may be required, but having Japanese language ability will also open up opportunities for you in the future, such as being able to take on management positions or participate in business negotiations with customers. By taking the JLPT (Japanese Language Proficiency Test), you can visualize your Japanese language level. However, there is no need to worry too much if you can't speak Japanese. At present, due to a shortage of Japanese engineers, many foreign engineers, including Chinese, Korean and Vietnamese engineers, are being employed by IT companies. In many good IT companies, bridge personnel who connect foreign engineers and Japanese engineers are employed, and they often provide support in terms of language and communication.In such companies, support for applying for a work visa may be provided by specialists. In order to work in Japan, you will need a visa for “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” or a visa for highly-skilled professionals, so if you can work for a company that provides visa support, you will receive generous support and save yourself the trouble of applying.Reference: 【外国人ITエンジニアの採用】成功させるために必要なポイントと手続きは何?/就労ビザ申請サポート池袋Logical thinkingBecause the IT industry is based on numbers and data rather than intuition, the ability to think logically is extremely important for engineers. Having a high level of logical thinking allows you to think through the causes of problems and to think about things based on evidence. What foreign engineers need to do to reach the required level of expertiseIn order to reach the level of expertise required by Japanese companies, there are three key points that foreign engineers need to focus on.Study programmingDevelop your own programs and appsStudy Japanese and EnglishStudy programmingMany Japanese companies are looking for foreign engineers who can hit the ground running, so you should study programming so that you can become an asset to the company as soon as you join. The reason Japanese companies want to hire foreign engineers is because there are not many talented IT workers in Japan. If you have a high level of expertise, your chances of being hired will increase.Even if you don't have any work experience as a programmer, there are cases where foreign engineers are hired straight out of school if they have a track record of achievements during their time as a student. For example, around 90% of the new graduates hired by the major IT company Mercari in 2019 were foreign nationals.Reference: メルカリの新卒エンジニア9割が外国人、インドの次はどの国から採る?/DIAMOND onlineDeveloping your own programs and appsAs part of your programming studies, we also recommend that you develop your own programs and apps. The experience of developing your own programs and apps can be submitted as a portfolio when you are looking for a job.By creating a portfolio that includes details of the projects you have participated in, your experience of working in teams, and the languages and environments you have used for development, you can effectively convey your skills and personality to companies.Reference: 優秀なエンジニアの採用成功に近づける6つのステップをプロが解説!/採用スマートナビStudying Japanese and EnglishIn order to work as an engineer in Japan, you should also make sure to study Japanese and English. At the very least, you will need to be able to speak Japanese in order to communicate with other engineers and customers in Japan. It will also be useful to learn IT terms and business phrases commonly used in Japanese companies. In order to promote the acceptance of foreign nationals, some Japanese IT companies have set English as the official language of the company. If English is not your native language, it is useful to study English as well as Japanese.Reference: 【外国人向け】日本で働くために覚えておきたい仕事で役立つ日本語[グローバル2]/FellowshipThere are many opportunities for foreign engineers with high-level expertise to work in JapanThere are many opportunities for foreign engineers with high-level expertise to work in Japan. In particular, the following five types of engineer are likely to be able to work in Japan.System EngineerTechnical SupportIT ConsultantProject LeaderProject ManagerSystem EngineerThere are many opportunities for foreign engineers to work as system engineers in Japan. In some cases, a business-level or higher Japanese language ability is required, but annual salaries of 6 million yen or more are standard, and depending on your skills and experience, there are also development positions that offer salaries of 10 million yen or more.There are also jobs available in regional cities and positions that allow you to work remotely or flexibly, so you can expect a workplace environment that allows you to work in a flexible way.Reference: 3倍に増えた外国人ITエンジニアの背景や採用状況を解説/G Talent BlogTechnical SupportTechnical support is a job that responds to inquiries about IT-related hardware and software. Because the same infrastructure is used worldwide, foreign engineers who can handle both Japanese and English are in high demand in global network divisions and infrastructure operation and maintenance departments.Depending on the level of technical support, there is a possibility that you can work if you have basic IT skills that allow you to operate and maintain systems. In addition to being able to communicate in Japanese and English, if the network and infrastructure are used in other countries, having local language skills such as Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, or Spanish will be highly valued.Reference: テクニカルサポートの仕事とは? 魅力から厳しい一面まで実態を解説/PORTキャリアIT ConsultantAn IT consultant is someone who works on IT strategies for client companies. Annual income is generally between 7 and 10 million yen, and there are also jobs that offer flexible hours and remote working systems.In order to work as an IT consultant, experience in system construction and management, as well as experience working in the industry in which you will be engaged, is necessary. For this reason, experience as an IT consultant and familiarity with the IT industry are required.Reference: 【ITコンサルタントとは】激務?学歴や資格は必要?未経験OK?仕事内容や年収も解説!/CAREER KnockProject LeaderIn addition to knowledge and skills related to the IT technology needed for the project you are involved in, and work experience, the characteristic of a leader position is that high communication skills are required.Depending on the type of job, you may also have to oversee Japanese engineers or manage estimates and man-hours. For this reason, you will need not only team-building skills, but also high language skills in Japanese and English.Reference: プロジェクトリーダーとは?仕事内容や必要なスキル、おすすめ資格を紹介/株式会社システムイングレータProject managerLike project leaders, project managers are required to have knowledge and skills in development languages and development environments, as well as management and communication skills. They are responsible for listening to the customer's requests and incorporating them into the product, and so they have more experience than project leaders.There are jobs available from 7 to 10 million yen and above, and in some cases, there are environments where you can work independently with full remote work and flexible hours. If you have experience working in the industry you are interested in, a curiosity about new knowledge, and a desire to work as part of a team, why not try your hand at a project management job in Japan?Reference: 外国人エンジニアの給与とは|相場額を把握し適切な金額設定を行おう/SunWellsFor foreign engineers with high-level expertise, use “G Talent”In this article, we have explained the level of expertise required of foreign engineers working for Japanese companies. Foreign engineers are required to have high-level IT skills as well as language and communication skills. By continuing to learn programming and actually developing apps and programs, you can gain employment opportunities in Japan. If you also remember to study Japanese and English, you will have a wide range of career development opportunities.“G Talent" is a job-placement agency specializing in foreign IT engineers. Our bilingual consultants, who have a wealth of IT knowledge, provide strong support for foreign IT engineers who want to work in Japan. If you want to work in Japan as a systems engineer, technical support, consultant, or in a management position, please consider using “G Talent”.

Articles in English

How much is the average salary for a foreign engineer in Japan?

The salary market for foreign engineers in Japan differs depending on the type of job, such as programmer, systems engineer, or project leader. In addition to the type of job, your annual salary may also be affected by the industry you work in, the number of years you have worked, and the type of company you work for, but in this article we will explain the salary market for each type of job.In order to make a job change that you won't regret, it is also necessary to gather information on check items other than salary. Let's also look at other points you should check, such as work-life balance, welfare benefits, overtime hours, and whether or not there is support for obtaining a visa, in addition to salary.If you are a foreign engineer looking for a job with a high salary, please use “G Talent”, a job-change agency for foreign engineers. We will provide full support for your job-change, including visa acquisition support and salary negotiations.Salary market for foreign engineers in JapanLet's first take a look at the salary market for foreign IT engineers in Japan, broken down by job type. The four types of foreign engineer jobs we will be introducing are as follows.ProgrammerSystem EngineerProject LeaderProject ManagerThe salary market differs not only by job type, but also by years of experience and industry, so we will explain each in detail.ProgrammerThe average annual salary for foreign programmers in Japan is between 3 and 10 million yen. The reason for the range in the average annual salary is that there are differences depending on the development field and the number of years of experience.For foreign software engineers, the average annual salary for software engineers with more than 10 years of experience is around 6.7 million yen. For those with more than 5 years of experience, the salary is 5.8 million yen, for those with less than 5 years of experience, it is 4.5 million yen, and for those with less than 1 year of experience, it is 3.9 million yen.Reference: 外国人ITエンジニアの給与水準はどう決める?相場や給与条件を解説/GitTapSystems EngineerThe market rate for foreign systems engineers is 3 to 7 million yen per year. The average annual salary for systems engineers with more than 5 years of experience is 4.32 million yen, but for those with less than 5 years of experience, the market rate is 3.38 million yen.It is said that in Japan, systems engineers do not see a significant increase in their annual salary when they get a pay rise. The reason for this is that the IT industry in Japan is multi-tiered, with many subcontractors and sub-subcontractors, and in some cases, system engineers work in a dispatched employment format, stationed at the client's office.On the other hand, some system engineers at foreign-affiliated companies earn 10 million yen a year in starting salary, so it can be said that there is a large disparity in salaries between industries and companies.Reference: システムエンジニアの年収や給料について詳しく解説します!/平均年収.jpProject LeaderThe average annual income for foreign project leaders is around 8 million yen. In their 20s, it is around 4.68 million yen, and in their 30s, it is around 6.22 million yen.A project leader is a position that oversees a specific part of a project. Although they don't go as far as a project manager, they can expect to earn a higher salary than programmers and engineers who actually do the work.Reference【外国籍IT人材採用】ホワイトペーパー『よくある失敗から学ぶ!自社に合った採用のコツ』/GitTapProject managerThe average annual salary for foreign project managers is also around 8 million yen, the same as for project leaders. The average annual salary for project managers with more than 10 years' experience is 8.5 million yen, and for those with more than 5 years' experience, 7.2 million yen.If you are a foreign engineer with a high level of expertise and technical skills, there is a good chance that your annual salary will increase.Reference: 外国人エンジニアの給与とは|相場額を把握し適切な金額設定を行おう/SunWells [As a side note] Does Japanese language ability affect the salary of foreign engineers?There is a possibility that the salary of foreign engineers will increase if they acquire Japanese language skills. This is because many foreign engineers are currently working in Japan, and they can be expected to play the role of a bridge engineer between foreign engineers and Japanese engineers.In order to make your Japanese language ability visible, you should acquire a Japanese language qualification. The Japanese Language Proficiency Test is one qualification that you can present when looking for a job or changing jobs.However, there is no need to worry too much if you don't speak Japanese. If you can communicate at a minimum level, you should be fine, as many solid companies hire Japanese bridge staff.Reference: 【外国人向け】日本で働くエンジニアの給料事情と高収入を得るための方法[グローバルエンジニア2]/FellowshipItems that foreign engineers should check other than salaryIn order for foreign engineers to make a job change without regrets, there are points to consider other than salary. In particular, by checking the following four points, it is possible to achieve a job change with a high level of satisfaction.Is the content of the work consistent with what you want to do?Is the amount of overtime work commensurate with the salary?Are there welfare benefits that allow you to maintain a good work-life balance?Is the communication aspect taken care of?Is the content of the work consistent with what you want to do?Make sure to check whether your career history can be put to use in the job content, and whether the job content matches the field you want to work in. Japanese companies have a long-standing culture of adopting a job rotation system, where employees perform the work they are assigned regardless of their wishes, and after a few years they move to a different department. For this reason, employees' experience and the fields they want to work in have not been taken into consideration.If you end up working for a company that still has this kind of structure, you may end up doing work that is not in the field you want to work in. It is important to always check whether the job you are applying for is one that will make use of your experience or not. There are many different types of IT engineer, so you should also take the time to think about what you are good at and what fields you like.Reference: ジョブローテーションとは?【意味を解説】メリット、何年/kaonaviIs the amount of overtime work commensurate with the salary?Even if you are paid a lot, if you work so much overtime that you don't have time for yourself or can't take part in family events, when you calculate your hourly rate, it will be below average. In Japan, there are companies that evaluate you for working a lot by doing overtime, so there are also many companies that have not made progress in streamlining their operations to reduce overtime.If you only judge a job based on salary and don't have time for yourself, you've got it all wrong, so make sure you check the overtime hours of the employees who actually work there and find out about the real working conditions.Reference: Salary Level of IT Engineer's with Salary Market Trends in Japan/G Talent BlogAre there welfare benefits that allow you to maintain a good work-life balance?As an engineer who tends to be given a lot of work, you should make sure that there is a welfare program in place that allows you to maintain a good work-life balance. If the company has a maternity leave system, a system for working shorter hours, or a system for taking paid holidays, etc., it can be predicted that they are conscious of work-life balance.It is also recommended to check things like meal provision, meal subsidies, flexible working hours, and the burden of health checks.Reference: ワークライフバランスを転職で実現しよう!企業選びのポイントや注意点をご紹介/ApexIs the communication aspect taken care of?As a foreigner working in Japan, you will almost certainly find yourself in situations where you need to communicate with Japanese people. If the company has a system in place to help you brush up on your Japanese, you can eliminate any worries you have about communicating in Japanese. Even if the company doesn't have a system in place to help you learn Japanese, if there is a bridge engineer at the company who can act as a go-between for you and the Japanese staff, you can work without any problems even if your Japanese ability is limited.Reference: 外国人労働者の日本語教育の方法とは?現状と対策について解説/ウィルオブ採用ジャーナル Example of average salary for engineers in other countriesFrom here, let's take a look at the average salary for engineers in other countries, not just Japan. Even if you are an engineer, the salary you receive will depend on which country you work in. Please use this information as a reference when choosing the country in which you want to build your career.Japan: 4.5 million yenUSA: 9 million yenAustralia, Canada, UK: 5.5 to 6 million yenSingapore: 3.7 million yenChina: 2.4 million yenThe highest salaries for engineers are in the United States, and engineers are more highly valued in Australia, Canada and the United Kingdom than in Japan. It is a feature of Asian countries such as Singapore and China that the average salary is set lower than in Japan.In particular, when comparing Japan and the US, it can be seen that salaries in Japan are lower than in the US for managerial positions and other specialist jobs. According to survey data from a joint study by engineering staffing service TechnoPro Holdings, Inc. and Doshisha University's STEM Human Resources Research Center, the salary gap between Japanese and American engineers has been widening since 2009, and the salary level for Japanese engineers is generally lower than in the US.In the US, if you have the ability, you have the potential to earn a high annual income at a young age, but if you don't have the ability, it becomes difficult to earn a high annual income. Furthermore, if you don't produce results, there is a good chance you will be fired in the worst case scenario.In Japan, there is a seniority system where salaries increase in accordance with the number of years worked, and a system of lifetime employment remains in place, so there are cases where even if you improve your technical skills and contribute to the company, this is not reflected in your salary or treatment. On the other hand, if a company is performing poorly, there is no risk of being easily laid off.For this reason, no matter how high the salary market is in the US, it is rare to be able to work there permanently, as is the case in Japan. It is important to understand the advantages and disadvantages of the employment systems in each country, and to make a choice that is right for your desired career.Reference: 「エンジニア給与の日米比較」調査 米国と比べエンジニアの給与水準が低い日本 日米格差は過去より拡大/PRWire Find out the salary market for foreign engineers in Japan and make a job change you won't regret!In this article, we have introduced the salary market for foreign engineers and IT personnel in Japan. The salary market differs depending on the type of engineer, but you can expect your annual income to increase if you work in the same position for a long time. In addition to salary, consider benefits that allow you to maintain a good work-life balance, overtime hours, and communication aspects, and make a job change you won't regret.If you are a foreign engineer who feels that the salary market in Japan is low, working outside of Japan is one option. However, in countries where you can expect high income and good treatment, if you don't achieve results you may be dismissed, so it is important to understand not only the salary but also the working style and business culture.If you are looking for a company in Japan that meets your desired conditions, it will take time and effort to search for one from scratch. In this case, we recommend using a job-placement agency. “G Talent” is a job-placement agency that specializes in foreign engineers, so it can efficiently find companies that match the desired conditions of many engineers. Bilingual consultants with extensive IT knowledge support the matching of companies and engineers, so if you want to work in a global environment in Japan, please consider using “G Talent”.

Foreign Employment

What are the advantages and disadvantages of hiring foreign engineers?

In recent years, the recruitment of foreign engineers has been attracting attention for a variety of reasons. However, there are also disadvantages to hiring foreign engineers, so it is important to know the advantages and disadvantages in detail in order to prevent any gaps after hiring. In this article, we will explain the reasons why the recruitment of foreign engineers is increasing, the advantages and disadvantages of hiring foreign engineers, and the key points for hiring foreign engineers without regrets.If you are a company considering hiring foreign engineers, please gather information on the topic beyond just the advantages and disadvantages. The G Talent Blog, run by “G Talent”, a job-placement service for foreign engineers, contains a variety of information, including introductions to companies that have hired foreign engineers and tips on hiring foreign engineers. You can also find out what companies really think, so please refer to this article together with the G Talent Blog.Why foreign engineers are attracting attention from companiesIn recent years, the following two reasons have been cited for the growing interest in hiring foreign engineers by many companies.Shortage of Japanese engineersTo smoothly develop global businessShortage of Japanese engineersIn Japan, there is a significant shortage of IT engineers. As there is a huge shortage of talented Japanese engineers, companies are making up for this shortfall by hiring talented people from overseas.To give a well-known example, many of the engineers working at Rakuten and Mercari are foreign nationals. In 2018, 90% of Mercari's new graduate engineers were foreign nationals, and at Rakuten, the company set English as the official language in 2012, and around 80% of the development staff hired in 2014 were foreign nationals.Reference: メルカリの新卒エンジニア9割が外国人、インドの次はどの国から採る?/DIAMOND onlineIn order to smoothly develop global businessthe presence of foreign talent is essential. If you can build a global team with foreign engineers, you can quickly catch up with the latest overseas technology and IT trends. You can also aim to expand overseas with foreign workers, and build and develop services for overseas customers, allowing you to smoothly carry out global business.Reference: 人材不足を解消!外国人エンジニアの採用方法と採用のメリット・デメリット/採用係長の採用アカデミーAdvantages for companies hiring foreign engineersFor companies, there are three advantages to hiring foreign engineers.Securing excellent engineers regardless of nationalityDevelopment and construction of a global development environmentExpectation of internal revitalization through interactionSecuring excellent engineers regardless of nationalityBy expanding your recruitment targets to include not only Japan but also the rest of the world, you can increase the probability of hiring talented people. One of the major advantages is that you can secure talented people more efficiently than by looking for talented people in Japan, as the number of Japanese engineers is insufficient.Reference: 外国人エンジニアを採用するメリットとデメリットーおすすめの採用手法も/xseeds HubDevelopment and construction of a global development environmentIf you hire foreign engineers, it will be easier to develop and build the business you are developing in-house for overseas. This is because foreign engineers may bring in the latest overseas technology and trends, as well as ideas that Japanese people would never think of, into the company.In the future, when you start global business by turning the services you have developed for the domestic market into services for overseas, foreign human resources will also play an active role.Reference: 海外エンジニア採用|メリットとデメリット、採用方法をくわしく解説/GALKExpectation of internal revitalization through interactionWorking with engineers from different cultures and with different values will add a new stimulus to your team. Hearing about their experiences of working and living outside Japan will also turn on the curiosity switch in your team.Through interaction with foreign engineers, you can expect to revitalize not only the same engineering team, but the entire company. It may also provide an opportunity to draw out the motivation and ideas of your employees.Reference: 外国人エンジニア採用~メリットから定着まで完全解説~/connect jobDisadvantages and points for companies hiring foreign engineersThere are various advantages to hiring foreign engineers, but there are also disadvantages, so if you are considering hiring foreign talent, it is important to understand them. The following are three points to consider when hiring foreign engineers.Possibility of not matching Japanese cultureCommunication costsWork visa acquisition procedures are requiredPossibility of not matching Japanese cultureOne of the major disadvantages of hiring foreign engineers is cultural differences. Even if you manage to hire a talented foreign engineer, if they don't match Japanese culture and communication doesn't go smoothly, work may not progress and become inefficient.Furthermore, it is common for people to change jobs multiple times in order to advance their careers outside of Japan, so when hiring people from overseas to work for a Japanese company, you also need to make sure they understand the differences in the culture of changing jobs and working.In the case of foreign engineers, you also need to understand the job-hopping cycle, where they may change jobs to another company if they don't have an attractive work environment or the opportunity to improve their skills.Reference: 外国人技術者とは?取り入れるメリット・デメリットや採用のコツまで徹底解説!/RISE for BusinessCommunication costsIf the foreign engineer does not understand Japanese, you will need to secure a person to act as an intermediary between the foreign engineer and the Japanese engineers, and there will be costs involved in having the foreign engineer learn Japanese.In some cases, it is necessary to deal with not only language but also cross-cultural understanding, and one of the disadvantages of hiring foreign engineers is that it is more expensive than hiring Japanese engineers.Reference: 外国人エンジニア採用時の注意点とは?海外のメンバーを管理できる最新ツールを紹介/VoicePingWork visa acquisition procedures are requiredIn order for a foreigner to work in Japan, they must obtain a work visa. In order to obtain a visa that allows them to work in Japan as an engineer, they must meet the requirements stipulated in the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act (Immigration Control Act), and they must also go through the application process, including preparing all the necessary documents and having them checked. There are also other types of visa, such as the “Engineer” visa, in addition to the Specified Skills 1 and 2 visas.Even after the visa has been successfully issued, there is a set period of time during which you can work with the visa, so you will need to take the necessary steps to ensure that it does not expire. One of the disadvantages of hiring foreign engineers is that you will have to go through the hassle of obtaining a work visa and the cost of consulting with a lawyer or administrative scrivener.Reference: 【永久保存版】特定技能とエンジニアの違い~ベトナム人の受入れや直接雇用する前に~/株式会社Joh AbroadKey points for hiring foreign engineers without regretsIf you are hiring foreign engineers, you want to be able to smoothly proceed with the hiring process without regrets, after understanding the advantages and disadvantages. From here, we will introduce three key points for successfully hiring foreign engineers.Understand the wages for work on a global scale, not just in JapanHire people who can act as a bridge between foreign and Japanese engineersEnsure that the company does not get caught up in Japanese working cultureUnderstand the wages for work on a global scale, not just in JapanOne of the reasons why there is a shortage of engineers in Japan is that the wages for engineers in Japan are set lower than in other countries. In particular, there is a gap of around double the amount compared to the US and Europe, so from the perspective of foreign engineers, working for a Japanese company may seem like a disadvantage.When hiring foreign engineers, it is important to understand global standards for wages so that you can pay them a salary that is commensurate with the work they do and the skills they have. If you can pay a global standard salary, you will be able to secure talented people and they will be more likely to stay with you for a long time.Reference:【外国人向け】日本で働くエンジニアの給料事情と高収入を得るための方法[グローバルエンジニア2]/FellowshipHire people who can act as a bridge between foreign and Japanese engineersThere are still many companies that are not proactive about hiring foreign engineers who cannot speak Japanese. However, this means that they will never be able to hire excellent foreign talent. If you are worried about the language barrier, then why not also recruit a bridge person who can communicate in English?A bridge worker is someone who acts as a go-between between foreign and Japanese workers. They not only bridge the language gap, but also help to bridge the gap between Japanese working culture and communication methods.Reference: ブリッジ人材の役割と必要性|海外進出における課題と人材採用のコツ/Talent Clip TimesEnsure that the company does not get caught up in Japanese working cultureIn the IT industry and engineering work environments, remote working arrangements that do not require employees to come into the office and parallel careers that involve working for multiple companies are sometimes accepted. If you are caught up in Japan's traditional work culture and are slow to develop remote working arrangements and flexible working styles, you may be abandoned by talented people.In order to attract talented foreign engineers, it is important to expand flexible working styles.Reference: 外国人エンジニアを採用するメリットとデメリット【需要と日本語】/グローバル採用ナビHow to hire foreign engineersThere are both advantages and disadvantages to hiring foreign engineers, but there are probably many people who want to hire foreign engineers in order to secure talented engineers. The following four methods can be used to specifically hire foreign engineers.Recruit on your company's websiteApproach foreign engineers through their SNSConsult with an agency specializing in foreign engineersUtilize a job site specializing in foreign engineersRecruit on your company's websiteBy preparing your own recruitment website, you can recruit foreign talent from your recruitment page. However, this method is only effective for companies that are well known overseas. If your company is not well known, there is a good chance that your recruitment page will not even be seen in the first place.If you are conducting recruitment activities via your company's recruitment page, you should also be aware that there will be communication costs involved, such as the need to provide information in English and to respond to recruitment inquiries in English. In order to secure talented foreign engineers, it is also important to prepare attractive employment conditions for foreign engineers.Reference: 【外国人採用】応募者が集まらないときに見直したい自社求人サイト/YOLO WORKApproach foreign engineers through their SNSSince the culture of changing jobs is more developed in foreign countries than in Japan, many engineers have well-developed profile pages on LinkedIn, a social networking site for job-seekers. Using LinkedIn, it is possible to find engineers who match the image of the person your company is looking for and to approach them directly.However, even with this method, you should be aware that there are costs involved, such as preparing human resources who can communicate with foreigners at your company and arranging work visas.Reference: LINKEDINで外国人エンジニアを採用するには?/ONETECHConsult with an agency specializing in foreign engineersBy consulting with an agency that specializes in recruiting foreign engineers, it is possible to efficiently recruit foreign engineers who are a good fit for your company. Most recruitment agencies have databases of foreign engineers who are interested in working in Japan, as well as know-how on obtaining work visas, so companies that have not previously recruited foreign workers can solve their worries and problems by consulting with them.However, when using an agency, there is a cost to pay the agency when a candidate is hired. Consider using a recruitment agency in light of your recruitment budget.Reference: 採用手法として転職サイトを使う際のメリット・デメリットとは/株式会社アールナインUtilize a job site specializing in foreign engineersIf you have a small budget for recruitment, we recommend using a job site that specializes in foreign engineers. It is a low-cost alternative to using a recruitment agency, and has the advantage of allowing you to reach a large number of foreign engineers.“GitTap” is a job site specializing in foreign engineers. As many foreign engineers who want to work in a global environment are registered, companies considering hiring foreign engineers for the first time should definitely consider registering.If you are looking for foreign engineers with specialized skills, try G TalentIf you are thinking about hiring foreign engineers, please use “G Talent”, a job-placement agency specializing in foreign IT personnel. “G Talent” focuses on IT engineers and bilingual foreign IT engineers who can hit the ground running, so you can acquire excellent foreign engineers efficiently. They also provide support for work visas and communication, so even companies that are hiring foreign engineers for the first time can do so with peace of mind.Let's aim for business expansion by understanding the advantages and disadvantages of hiring foreign engineers!In this article, we have introduced the advantages and disadvantages you should be aware of when hiring foreign engineers. There are advantages to hiring foreign engineers, such as being able to secure excellent human resources from all over the world regardless of nationality, and becoming a bridge for global business development. However, there are also disadvantages, such as having to be careful about differences with Japanese culture and communication costs, so you need to be careful. Make sure you keep in mind the points we have introduced here when hiring foreign engineers, and carry out your recruitment activities without regrets.If you are considering hiring foreign engineers, please use the job-placement agency 'G Talent', which specializes in foreign IT engineers. G Talent, which supports the job-hunting and career-change activities of foreign IT engineers who want to work in Japan, has bilingual consultants with a wealth of IT knowledge who provide strong support for matching companies and engineers.

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Amazonギフト券5万円プレゼント!友人紹介キャンペーン

Amazonギフト券10万円プレゼント!友人紹介キャンペーン日本語が話せてITの経験を持つ転職を検討している友人・知人をご紹介ください!以下の3つの条件を満たすご友人・知人を紹介いただき、ご紹介いただいた方がGTalentを通じてご就業されましたら、あなたにAmazonギフト券を50,000円分をプレゼントいたします!ご紹介の対象者以下の条件を満たす友人・知人の方が対象となります。日本国内に在住の外国籍の方日本語ができる方(JLPTでN3以上)ITエンジニアとしての経験や大学などでプログラミングを学んだ方日本語が話せてIT関連の経験を持つご友人・知人をご紹介ください!※すでにGTalentにご登録いただいている方は対象外となります。キャンペーン内容ご紹介していただいた友人がGTalentを利用して転職に成功したら紹介者にAmazonギフト券5万円分をプレゼントAmazonギフト券のプレゼントは、紹介者してくれた友人が転職先に入社をして1ヶ月を経過した日から1週間以内にメールでお送りいたします。 エントリー方法以下のエントリーフォームからご登録ください。友人紹介キャンペーンエントリーフォームご友人にGTalentから連絡が入ることを事前にお伝えください。ご友人のご紹介お待ちしております!

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Refer-a-friend Incentive Campaign with50,000 yen Amazon Gift Card !

Refer-a-friend Incentive Campaign with Amazon Gift Card 100,000 yen!Please refer your friends and acquaintances who are speaking Japanese and are considering changing jobs with IT experience!If your friends join a company via GTalent, you will receive a ¥50,000 Amazon Gift Card.Available conditionsYour friends and acquaintances who meet the following conditions are available!Foreigners living in Japan.Those who can speak Japanese(More than JLPT N3 level).IT Engineer and Those who studied programming at universitiesPlease refer your friends and acquaintances who are speaking Japanese and are considering changing jobs with IT experience!※Those who have already registered with G Talent are not eligible.IncentiveIf your friend successfully do job change with using G Talent, you will receive a 50,000 yen Amazon gift card!You will get an email with Amazon gift card within one week from the day one month has passed since the friend who joined the new job.Campaign DeadlineRegistration by June 30, 2020*You can get the incentive even if the friend who you refer to us change job after the deadline.EntryPlease register below!Refer-a-Friend Incentive Campaign Entry FormPlease let your friend who you refer to us know in advance that he/she will be contacted by G Talent.We look forward to introducing your friends!