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

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

The number of foreign workers in Japan has been increasing in recent years. If you are a foreigner working in Japan, you will probably enjoy a number of benefits, such as improved skills and peace of mind in your daily life. However, there are also disadvantages as well as advantages.In this article, we will explain the advantages and disadvantages of working in Japan for foreigners, as well as some points to keep in mind. If you are a foreigner thinking about working in Japan, please refer to this article. For foreigners who want to work in Japan, we recommend IT-related global recruitment agency “G Talent”.Many people feel that there are advantages to working in JapanIn recent years, Japan has been actively accepting foreign workers. One reason for this is the declining birthrate and aging population. As a result of the serious shortage of human resources caused by the declining birthrate and aging population, there is a movement to utilize human resources from overseas.Another factor is the increasing globalization of various companies. At the same time as Japan is actively hiring foreign workers, the number of foreigners who want to work in Japan is also increasing. Although the number of foreign workers in Japan has decreased slightly due to the spread of the new coronavirus, the number of people working in Japan has been increasing in recent years due to the various benefits of working in Japan.Reference: 外国人労働者が増加している背景は？メリットとデメリットを4つずつ紹介！／夢真Advantages of working in Japan for foreignersThe main advantages of working in Japan for foreigners are as follows.High demand for people who can speak EnglishEmployment is stableYou can learn advanced skills and servicesThere is a generous insurance systemCommuting allowances are providedYou can receive careful employee trainingThe area is safe and you can live with peace of mindHigh convenienceNo worries about foodHigh demand for people who can speak EnglishIn Japan, there is a tendency for people who can speak English to be in demand. If you are not confident in your Japanese, you may have some concerns about working in Japan.However, if you can speak English instead of Japanese, there is a possibility that you can make use of that skill in Japan. Specific jobs where English can be put to use include sales to foreigners and teaching at English conversation schools. If you are a native English speaker or have a good command of English, you will find it easier to find a job even if you do not have a high level of Japanese.Reference: 外国人が日本で働くメリットと押さえておきたい就職時のポイント[グローバル2]／Fellow shipEmployment is stableIn Japan, it is difficult to dismiss an employee without a justifiable reason, so one of the benefits is that you are almost never fired unless you commit a major rule violation. Another characteristic of Japan is that there is a strong tendency to “build up your career within the same company”.In Europe and America, there are many people who work by changing jobs repeatedly to improve their career. However, in Japan, people who steadily work their way up in one company tend to be more highly regarded. If you continue to work hard at the same company, not only is there less risk of being fired, but the possibility of being promoted and getting a good position will also increase.Reference: 外国人労働者が感じる日本で働く６つのメリット／IZANAUYou can learn advanced skills and servicesJapanese technology and services, such as the high quality of customer service, are often praised around the world. A typical example is the fact that in Japan, whether you buy expensive or cheap goods, you will receive the same level of courteous service. This kind of service is rare worldwide, and it is a culture unique to Japan.By learning about Japan's advanced services and technology, you can expect to make great improvements in your skills. Improving your skills will also lead to opening up further possibilities in your future work.Reference: 「世界よ、これが日本のサービスだ」外国人が日本に来て衝撃を受けたおもてなしとは／LIVE JAPANThere is a generous insurance systemJapan has a generous insurance system that provides a great sense of security in everyday life, such as health insurance. The feature of this system is that by paying a certain amount, foreigners can also join the health insurance system in the same way as Japanese workers. If you are enrolled in health insurance, you can reduce the medical expenses you have to pay yourself if you suffer a serious injury or illness.Reference: 外国人に対する国民健康保険の適用について／厚生労働省Commuting allowance is paidWhen working in a country other than Japan, most workers have to pay for the cost of getting from home to work. However, in Japan, the cost of commuting by train or bus is often paid for by the company.This is not just for full-time employees, but in many cases even part-time workers are covered by the company. The Japanese culture of providing a commuting allowance is one of the major benefits for workers.Reference: 日本では当たり前の通勤手当　英国で働き始めた女性が陥った落とし穴とは／Hint-PotYou can receive careful employee trainingMany Japanese companies provide thorough training for new employees, including employee training and OJT. OJT is a method of training in which inexperienced employees learn how to do their jobs by experiencing actual work. During training and OJT, your superiors will provide you with careful guidance, so you can steadily acquire knowledge and experience.The area is safe and you can live with peace of mindJapan is considered to be a country with good public safety compared to many other countries in the world. One of the reasons for this is that guns are not allowed to be owned. Because the citizens do not have guns, they are rarely involved in gun-related crimes.Not only gun-related incidents, but the overall incidence of incidents such as murders and terrorism is also low. Because the possibility of being involved in an incident is low, you can live without anxiety. When you are working, the quality of the company is important, but the ease of living in the country itself is also a point to note. If you are in Japan, which is a country where it is easy to live, you can work with peace of mind every day.Reference: 日本の治安は良い！世界でも10番目に治安の良い国とされている！／ほけんROOMHigh convenienceThe following are some of the things that make Japan so convenient.There are convenience stores and restaurants that are open 24 hours a dayThere are timetables for trains and busesTrains and buses arrive at the scheduled timeAlthough some countries also have convenience stores, they are rarely open 24 hours a day. Also, in some countries, detailed timetables for trains and buses are not available. Even if timetables are available, the reality is that trains and buses often do not arrive on time.In Japan, many convenience stores are open 24 hours a day. Also, detailed timetables are available for trains and buses. Whether you are commuting to work or just going about your daily life, Japan is a country where it is easy to live.Reference: 日本って便利だなと思ったこと／マイナビニュースNo worries about foodIn Japan, there are all kinds of places to eat, from high-end restaurants to budget eateries. You can eat a meal for around 500 yen, and the safety of the food is guaranteed to a certain extent, so you can live your life without worry.Another characteristic of Japan is the large number of chain stores that can be found all over the country. No matter where you are, you can always find a familiar store nearby. Many of the chain restaurants have reasonable prices, so no matter where you work in Japan, you will be able to eat familiar meals at a low price.Reference: 日本の飲食店がなぜこんなにも安いのかを知ったら、手放しで喜べる？／noteDisadvantages and points to note for foreigners working in JapanWhen foreigners work in Japan, they need to be aware of the following points.It is difficult to obtain a visa or residence statusThere are many places where only Japanese is spokenThere are cases where you won't get a fair evaluation of your resultsThere are cases where your income may decreaseIt is difficult to obtain a visa or residence statusIf you are a foreigner working in Japan, you will need to obtain a work visa. However, work visas have strict conditions for obtaining them, such as “having a long work history” or “having received advanced education”. Therefore, it is not easy to obtain a visa unless you are a person with experience and knowledge.Reference: なぜ日本での就労ビザ取得は難しいの！？　自社にとって適切な外国人材を雇用するために知っておきたいこと／Guidable jobsThere are many places where only Japanese is spokenBecause there are not many people in Japan who can speak English, when you go to places like restaurants or supermarkets, Japanese is often the only language spoken. If you are a foreigner who is not good at Japanese, you may have a hard time using these facilities.Reference: 日本人はどうして英語が苦手なの？／メトロノワThere are cases where you won't get a fair evaluation of your resultsAs globalization progresses, the treatment of foreign workers is becoming better. However, there are still companies that treat foreign workers in a discriminatory way. Even if you achieve good results at work, there is still a possibility that you won't get a fair evaluation because you are a foreigner.In particular, some companies think of foreign workers as “people who can be made to work in poor working conditions for low pay”. If you change jobs to a company with such a low quality, it will be difficult to get a fair evaluation, so you must choose your company carefully.Reference: 外国人労働者を受け入れたい！雇用のメリット・デメリットや現在の問題点などを解説／外国人採用サポネットThere are cases where your income may decrease Even now, there are cases where some Japanese companies view foreign workers as “cheap labor”. Naturally, foreign workers are also required to strictly observe the minimum wage, just like Japanese workers. Even so, there are cases where income is reduced due to old-fashioned stereotypes, so you must be careful.Reference: 外国人労働者の賃金　現状と課題、日本人との違いなどを丁寧に解説！／外国人雇用相談室How can you get the most out of working in Japan as a foreigner?To make your time in Japan as comfortable as possible, make sure you keep the following points in mind.Improve your Japanese language skillsUse an agency that specializes in helping foreigners find work or change jobsAcquire qualifications as necessaryImprove your Japanese language skillsImproving your Japanese language skills will make it easier to interact with Japanese employees and will help you to get on with your work more smoothly. It is also important to note that people who can speak both Japanese and English are likely to be in high demand. For example, there are jobs that can only be done because you can handle two languages, such as interpreting and translating. By improving your Japanese language skills, you will also be able to broaden your job options.Reference: 日本でキャリアを築きたい外国人必見！ビジネス日本語の重要性を解説／TENJeeUse an agency that specializes in helping foreigners find work or change jobsIt is not possible to say that there are no companies that treat foreigners coldly. Therefore, by using a high-quality agency that specializes in helping foreigners find work or change jobs, it will be easier to find a good company that treats foreign workers in the same way as Japanese workers.Acquire qualifications as necessaryIn Japan, there are also companies that make the acquisition of qualifications a prerequisite for joining the company. Acquiring qualifications will broaden the range of companies you can choose from and make it easier to work at high-quality companies. Furthermore, in some cases, acquiring certain qualifications can also help you acquire a residence status. In order to work at a Japanese company with peace of mind, please consider acquiring qualifications in a field that is close to the type of work you want to do.Reference:◆Requirements for a work visa◆ / Work Visa.comFind out the advantages and disadvantages of working in Japan as a foreigner and find a job!Japan is a country with good public safety and high convenience, so you can work here with peace of mind. Employment is stable, so there is almost no risk of being suddenly laid off. To avoid working for a malicious company that discriminates against foreigners, we recommend using an agency that specializes in helping foreigners find jobs or change jobs when choosing a company.If you are looking for a job that is easy to work in Japan, please use the job-change agent “G Talent”, which specializes in global environment engineering companies. We have supported the job-change of engineers from over 70 nationalities, and have a wealth of experience in the employment and job-change of foreign engineers. If you want to work in Japan, please check it out.

If the visa of a foreigner living in Japan expires, ignoring or fleeing from a notice from the police or immigration bureau will result in severe punishment such as arrest or deportation. For this reason, it is important to renew your visa before it expires. However, even if your visa expires, there is a possibility that you can re-obtain it if you apply for re-issuance immediately. In this article, we will explain not only what happens if your visa expires in Japan, but also how to re-obtain it after it has expired.If you are looking for a job in Japan and would like to receive generous visa support, please use “G Talent”, a job change agency for foreign engineers.What happens if you stay in Japan after your visa / residence status has expired?If you stay in Japan after your visa (residence status) has expired, you will be considered to be an illegal overstayer. Illegal overstaying is a serious criminal offense, so if you cannot return to your home country before your visa expires, you will need to go through the renewal process.However, permanent residents do not have a fixed period of stay, so even if their period of stay expires, they will not be considered to be overstaying. However, permanent residents are also required to renew their residence cards, so be sure to do so before the deadline. If you forget to renew your card, you may be imprisoned for up to one year or fined up to 200,000 yen, so please be careful.Reference: 永住者で在留カードの期限が近い方へ／東京ビザ申請サポート[Caution] If you overstay your visa by even one day, you will be treated as an illegal overstayerIn Japan, if the period of stay on your visa expires even by one day, you will be considered to be staying in the country illegally and will be punished. Some people think that it will be okay to stay for a few days, but the Immigration Bureau and the police in Japan are constantly investigating the whereabouts of illegal residents, so remember that if you overstay your visa, you will definitely be caught and arrested.However, if you turn yourself in to the Immigration Bureau within two months of your visa expiring, there is a high chance that they will grant you permission to apply for a new visa.Reference: オーバーステイ・不法滞在についてよくある質問です／外国人在留資格ビザセンターPenalties for being arrested for overstaying or illegal stayIf it is discovered through an investigation by the police or immigration officials that you have overstayed in Japan with an expired visa, you will be arrested by the police and the following penalties will be imposed.<Penalties for being arrested for overstaying or illegal stay>DeportationImprisonment for up to 3 years or a fine of up to 3 million yenAlso, if you continue to work in Japan while your visa has expired, the following penalties will also be imposed on the employer who employs the foreign national in question, so please be careful.<Penalties for employers of foreign nationals who are overstaying their visas>Imprisonment for up to 3 years or a fine of up to 3 million yen If you are arrested, during the 10 to 20 day long detention period, you will be investigated in detail about when you came to Japan, your purpose for coming, where you worked while your visa was expired, where you lived, etc. After that, in many cases, you will be given a severe punishment called “deportation”, and after being detained at the Immigration Bureau, you will be deported to your country of residence. If you are deported, you will not be able to re-enter Japan for 5 years (10 years if it is your second deportation).Reference: ビザ（在留資格）の期限が切れていたときの対処方法／みなとまち行政書士事務所<Supplementary information> Cases where your visa has expired while you are overseasIf your Japanese visa expires while you are overseas, there is a high chance that you will be able to re-enter Japan with a re-entry permit if you do so within two months of the expiration date of your visa. You cannot apply to extend your period of stay at a Japanese embassy overseas, so if you realize that your visa has expired while you are overseas, you should return to Japan as soon as possible and apply for an extension at the Regional Immigration Bureau that has jurisdiction over your place of residence.However, if more than two months have passed since the expiration date of your visa, you will need to go through the process of applying for a Certificate of Eligibility for Residence Status and re-obtain your visa before you can re-enter Japan. The application process for a Certificate of Eligibility for Residence Status takes longer than a regular visa renewal, and you will need to submit a number of documents.<Documents required for applying for a Certificate of Eligibility for Residence Status (in the case of an intra-company transfer from Japan to overseas)>Application for Certificate of Eligibility (1 copy)1 passport-sized photo1 stamped self-addressed envelope (404 yen)Documents proving that you are enrolled at your “affiliated organization”In order to avoid complicated procedures, foreign nationals who are going overseas while staying in Japan should make sure they know the expiry date of their Japanese visa.Reference: If the period of stay has expired, can I re-acquire a visa? / Tsukuba World Administrative Scrivener's OfficeFlow of re-acquiring a work visaThere are 19 types of work visas in Japan, and the validity period for each is as follows.Type of work visaPersons eligible for visa acquisitionExpiration dateDiplomatic visaAmbassadors, ministers, consuls-general, members of delegations, etc. from foreign governments, and their family membersPeriod of time during which diplomatic activities are carried outOfficial visaEmployees of foreign government embassies and consulates, people dispatched on official business from international organizations, etc., and their family members5 years, 3 years, 1 year, 3 months, 30 days or 15 daysProfessor visaUniversity professors, associate professors, lecturers, assistants, etc.5 years, 3 years, 1 year, 3 months or 4 months (only for business management)Art visaComposers, lyricists, painters, sculptors, craftspeople, photographers, etc.Religious visaReligious workers such as priests, bishops, and missionariesPress visaNewspaper reporters, magazine reporters, editors, news photographers, announcers, etc.Business management visaCompany owners, managers, etc.Legal and accounting services visaAdministrative scriveners, lawyers, judicial scriveners, certified public accountants, tax accountants, labor and social security attorneys, etc.Medical visaDoctors, dentists, pharmacists, nurses, assistant nurses, public health nurses, midwives, dental hygienists, radiological technologists, physical therapists, occupational therapists, orthoptists, clinical engineers, physical therapists, prosthetists, etc.Research visaResearchers working for government agencies or companiesEducation visaLanguage instructors at elementary schools, junior high schools, high schools, etc.Nursing care visaCaregivers with qualifications as a certified care worker, etc.Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services VisaEmployees temporarily transferred from a foreign parent company, subsidiary, grandchild company, or affiliate companyIntra-Company Transfer Visa外国の親会社や子会社、孫会社、関連会社にあたる事業所から一時的に派遣される転勤者5 years, 3 years, 1 year, 3 monthsTechnical VisaForeign chefs, precious metal craftsmen, pilots, architects/civil engineers with unique overseas skills, repair technicians for overseas products, animal trainers, sports instructors, sommeliers, etc.Entertainment VisaSingers, dancers, actors, fashion models, professional athletes, circus animal trainers, sports trainers, choreographers, directors, etc.  3 years, 1 year, 6 months, 3 months, 15 daysSpecified Skills Visa[Specified Skills 1]People who want to obtain work qualifications in 14 specific fields, such as nursing care, building cleaning, the materials industry, industrial machinery manufacturing, and electrical/electronic information-related industries[Specified Skills 2]People who are engaged in work that requires skilled labor in the construction and shipbuilding/marine engineering fields[Specified Skills 1]1 year, 6 months, 4 months[Specified Skills 2]3 years, 1 year, 6 monthsTechnical Intern Training VisaTechnical interns accepted from overseas subsidiaries, etc., or technical interns accepted through a management organization, etc.1 year, 6 monthsYou can check the validity period of your visa by looking at the seal on your passport or your resident card, so if you forget, check these documents. If you are unable to renew your visa within the validity period set when you obtained your work visa, please follow the flow below to re-apply for your visa.Reference: 就労や長期滞在を目的とする場合／外務省Flow for re-applying for a work visaThe flow for applying for a work visa is as follows.Contact the Immigration Bureau promptlyReport to the Immigration BureauContact the Immigration Bureau promptlyIf you realize that your visa has expired, you should promptly contact the Immigration Bureau that has jurisdiction over your place of residence. You can find the contact details for the Immigration Bureau by accessing the Immigration Bureau website and checking the details for your place of residence.When you contact the Immigration Bureau, explain that you have just realized that your visa has expired, and ask for instructions on what documents you need to submit and what you should do next. If you intend to work in Japan, be sure to tell the staff that you have no intention of leaving the country and that you want to continue working in Japan.If you do not tell them, they will think that you are there to appear for an “exit order”, which allows overstaying foreigners to return to their home country without being detained. If you are thought to be there for an exit order, you will be taken through the exit procedures and will not be able to enter Japan for the next year, so be careful.Reference: ビザの更新，期限が切れたら？！更新の申請の特例／弁護士法人あいち刑事事件総合法律事務所Report to the Immigration BureauWhen the relevant date and time comes, you must report to the Immigration Bureau that has jurisdiction over your place of residence. If possible, it is a good idea to have a Japanese colleague or spouse accompany you. When you report to the Immigration Bureau, you must submit the following documents. In addition to the documents you have on hand, there are also documents that need to be issued by the city office, so be sure to prepare them in advance.PassportCertificate of employmentExpired residence cardStatement of reasons for application (a written explanation of the reasons for forgetting to renew your visa, the circumstances, and your reflections)Most recent certificate of residence tax issued by the city officeMost recent certificate of residence tax payment issued by the city officeReference: 在特出頭の“必要書類”は？／外国人助太刀倶楽部[Supplementary information] There are cases where you cannot re-acquire a visaEven if you submit the necessary documents, there are cases where you may not be able to re-acquire a work visa if any of the following applyIf the work you are currently doing is outside the scope of your visa statusIf you have changed the content of your visa status without permissionIf you are working outside the scope of your visa statusIf you have a bad reputation (e.g. you have been punished by the police or you are involved in illegal employment)For smoothly re-acquiring a work visa, you should follow the rules of Japan so that you do not fall into any of the above categories.Reference: 就労ビザの更新で不許可になるケースと対処方法／TOMAコンサルタンツグループWhat you must not do when your visa in Japan expiresIf your visa expires in Japan, you must not do the following.Flee from the police or immigration officersFlee to the other countryNeglect to do anything about it even though you know your visa has expiredIf you flee or neglect to do anything about it even though you know your visa has expired, you will be subject to severe penalties such as deportation or arrest. If you notice that your visa has expired, you should follow the necessary procedures as outlined in the “Flow of Re-acquiring a Working Visa” section, as there is a possibility that your visa will be reissued if you contact the Immigration Bureau promptly.Reference: 違反行為 絶対にやってはいけない 10のポイント／立命館アジア太平洋大学Make sure you know the period of your visa in Japan and take care not to let it expireIf you are a foreigner coming to Japan to work, you will need to obtain the most suitable visa from the 19 types of work visas available, depending on the nature of your work. However, the period of stay for each type of work visa differs, so it is important to know how many years you can stay in Japan.If your visa expires before you can renew it, you can still get a new one if you contact your local immigration office as soon as possible. If you run away or leave it unattended, you will be subject to severe penalties such as arrest or deportation, so please be careful not to let it expire.If you are looking for work in Japan, we recommend using "G Talent", which also provides visa acquisition support. Career advisors who are familiar with working in Japan provide support, and visa-related consultations are also accepted.

If you are planning to stay abroad for a long period of time or work overseas, you will probably find the visa application process complicated if you are not familiar with it. If you make any mistakes, you could end up overstaying or working illegally, which could have negative consequences for you.In this article, we will explain the visas that IT engineers need to work in Japan. If you are thinking of finding a job in Japan or need to change your visa to find a job, please refer to this article. Global IT company recruitment agency “G Talent” can provide you with not only job hunting support but also visa support.What is the difference between a visa and a status of residence?Although some companies use the terms visa and status of residence interchangeably, they are technically different. If you mix them up, it could be to your disadvantage when looking for a job, so it's important to understand the difference between them.In this section, we will explain the difference between a visa and a status of residence. Let's check again by comparing it with the visa or status of residence you have.What is a visa?A visa is a “document that permits entry into Japan” issued by a Japanese embassy or consulate abroad. It is issued after the applicant has submitted the necessary documents to a Japanese embassy or consulate abroad and, as a result of an examination, has been judged to be a foreign national whose passport is valid and who poses no obstacle to entry into Japan.Reference: 出入国在留管理庁／きっずるーむ法務省What is a status of residence?A status of residence is a qualification that foreign nationals who intend to enter Japan must have in order to prove that they have no problems with the activities they plan to carry out in Japan and that they meet the conditions for doing so. The Immigration Bureau of the Ministry of Justice in Japan manages this, and there are currently 38 types of status of residence. A “residence card” is a card that proves your status of residence.In addition, some companies refer to the status of residence as a “work visa”. The term “work visa” is a common name for the status of residence, and it is safe to assume that the two refer to the same thing.Reference: 在留資格とは／東京入管・永住、帰化申請サポート室Work visas for foreign IT engineers to work in JapanIn order to stay in Japan legally, you need to obtain a “residence qualification (work visa)” issued by Japan. The visa for working as an IT engineer is sometimes called an “engineer visa”. This article explains the work visa for foreign IT engineers working in Japan.Requirements for obtaining a work visa “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services”In order to work as an IT engineer in Japan, foreigners generally need to obtain a “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” visa. In order to obtain a “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” visa in Japan, you need to meet the following conditionsYou must have graduated from a university that offers courses related to the skills and knowledge required for the job you intend to do.The university you graduated from can be in Japan or overseas. Also, graduates of Japanese vocational schools who have a “Diploma” degree also fall under this category.You must have at least 10 years of work experience in the field you are intending to work inEven if you do not meet the first criterion, you can still obtain a “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” visa if you have at least 10 years of work experience. The 10-year period also includes the time spent studying specialist knowledge such as information processing at schools in Japan or overseas. However, the period of compulsory education in Japan is not included, and part-time work by international students is also not covered.Those who have passed an examination or obtained a qualification related to information processing as specified in the public notice[Examinations in Japan](a) The Information Processing Security Support Specialist Examination administered by the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry based on the Act on the Promotion of Information Processing (Act No. 90 of 1970)(b) The following Information Processing Engineer Examinations administered by the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry based on the Act on the Promotion of Information Processing(1) IT Strategist Examination(2) System Architect Examination(3) Project Manager Examination(4) Network Specialist Examination(5) Database Specialist Examination(6) Embedded Systems Specialist Examination(7) IT Service Manager Examination(8) System Auditor Examination(9) Applied Information Technology Engineer Examination(10) Fundamental Information Technology Engineer Examination(11) Information Security Management Examination (c) The following information processing engineer examinations administered by the Minister of International Trade and Industry or the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry(1) First-class Information Processing Engineer Certification Examination(2) Second-class Information Processing Engineer Certification Examination(3) First-class Information Processing Engineer Examination(4) Second-class Information Processing Engineer Examination(5) Special Information Processing Engineer Examination(6) Information Processing System Audit Engineer Examination(7) Online Information Processing Engineer Examination(8) Network Specialist Examination(9) System Operation and Management Engineer Examination(10) Production Engineer Examination(11) Database Specialist Examination(12) Microcomputer Applied Systems Engineer Examination(13) Systems Analyst Examination(14) Systems Auditor Examination(15) Application Engineer Examination(16) Project Manager Examination(17) Advanced System Administrator Examination(18) Software Development Engineer Examination(19) Technical Engineer (Network) Examination(20) Technical Engineer (Database) Examination(21) Technical Engineer (System Administration) Examination(22) Technical Engineer (Embedded Systems) Examination(23) Technical Engineer (Information Security) Examination(24) Information Security Administrator Examination(25) Information Security Specialist Examination[Examinations in China](a) The following examinations administered by the Education and Examination Center of the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology of China(1) Systems Analyst(2) Information System Project Manager(3) System Architect(4) Software Design Engineer(5) Network Engineer(6) Database System Engineer(7) Programmer(b) The following examinations administered by the Electronic Education Center of the Ministry of Information Industry of China or the Electronic Education and Examination Center of the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology of China(1) System Analyst(2) Senior Programmer(3) System Analyst(4) Software Design Engineer(5) Network Engineer(6) Database System Engineer(7) Programmer[Examinations in the Philippines](a) The following examinations administered by the Philippine National Information Technology Standards Foundation (PhilNITS)(1) Fundamental Information Technology Engineer Examination(2) Applied Information Technology Engineer Examination(b) Fundamental Information Technology Engineer Examination conducted by the Japan-Philippines Information Technology Standards Examination Foundation (JITSE Phil)[Examinations in Vietnam](a) The following examinations conducted by the High-Tech Incubation Training Center (HITC)(1) Fundamental Information Technology Engineer Examination(2) Applied Information Technology Engineer Examination (b) The following examinations conducted by the Vietnam Information Technology Examination and Training Support Center or the Vietnam Training and Examination Center(1) Fundamental Information Technology Engineer Examination(2) Software Development Engineer Examination(3) Applied Information Technology Engineer Examination[Examinations administered by the Myanmar Computer Federation (MCF) in Myanmar](a) Fundamental Information Technology Engineer Examination(b) Applied Information Technology Engineer Examination[Examinations administered by the Industrial Technology and Information Promotion Agency (III) in Taiwan](a) Software Design and Development IT Expert Examination(b) Network communication professional (network communication IT expert) test(c) Information security management professional (information system security IT expert) test[Examinations administered by the Multimedia Technology Promotion Agency (METEOR) in Malaysia]Fundamental information technology professional test[Examinations in Thailand](a) The following examinations administered by the National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA)(1) Fundamental Information Technology Engineer Examination(2) Applied Information Technology Engineer Examination (b) Fundamental Information Technology Engineer Examination administered by the National Electronics and Computer Technology Center (NECTEC)[Examinations administered by the Mongolian National IT Park (NITP) in Mongolia](a) Fundamental Information Technology Engineer Examination(b) Applied Information Technology Engineer Examination[Examinations administered by the Bangladesh Computer Council (BCC) in Bangladesh](a) Fundamental Information Technology Engineer Examination(b) Applied Information Technology Engineer Examination[Examinations administered by the Singapore Computer Society (SCS) in Singapore]Certified IT Project Manager (CITPM)[Examinations administered by the Korea Human Resources Corporation in South Korea](a) Engineer Information Processing(b) Industrial Engineer Information ProcessingReference: ＩＴ技術者の在留資格／行政書士みなと国際事務所How to apply for a work visa for IT engineers in JapanIn order to work in Japan as an IT engineer, you will need a legal visa and qualifications for long-term residence and employment. If you have already found a place to work, make sure you apply in plenty of time so that your stay and employment will not be adversely affected.We will explain in detail how to apply for a visa for those who are about to enter Japan and those who have already entered Japan.The procedure for applying for a new work visa for IT engineersThe procedure for IT engineers applying for a status of residence (work visa) is as follows for those who are about to enter Japan.Applying for a Certificate of EligibilityIn order to apply for a work visa, you will need to submit a document called a “Certificate of Eligibility”. You can apply for this at the local immigration office in Japan, so ask a member of staff at the company you are planning to work for to apply on your behalf.Examination and issuance by the Immigration BureauIf there are no problems with the details of the application and it is judged that the applicant is suitable for landing in Japan and working, a Certificate of Eligibility will be issued. Even if the application is not approved, there is no way to appeal.Apply for a visa at a Japanese embassy or consulateGather the Certificate of Eligibility and the necessary documents for applying for a visa, and apply for a visa at a Japanese embassy or consulate. The necessary documents are listed below, so please check them.Reference: 手続きの流れは？　必要な申請書類は？／出入国在留管理庁The procedure for IT engineers applying to change their status of residence to a work visaThose who have already entered Japan and are seeking to extend their period of stay should follow the procedure below.Apply for a change of status of residence or extension of period of stayApply at the local immigration office. For either application, you will need to submit a “point calculation chart” and “documents proving your points” related to the activity you intend to carry out. If necessary, ask your employer or prospective employer to issue the necessary documents for your application.Examination and permission for change or extension at the Immigration BureauThe points for examination are as follows.The activity you intend to perform is that of a highly-skilled foreign professionalThe points calculation result is 70 points or moreYour status of residence is goodIf the points calculation result is less than 70 points, you will be denied even if you meet the other requirements.Reference: 在留期間更新許可申請 ／出入国在留管理庁Who applies for a work visa for IT engineers in Japan?Even if you have already found a job in Japan, you will not be able to work in Japan unless you have a visa and residence status. However, some people may be worried about whether they will be able to handle the complicated procedures on their own.Here, we will explain who can apply for a residence status (work visa) to work as an IT engineer in Japan.The applicantAs a general rule, the applicant him/herself will carry out the application, change and renewal procedures for the residence status. As the procedures are complicated, if you are worried about unfamiliar application procedures, it is a good idea to make use of a service that provides support for changing jobs or finding employment. Alternatively, we also recommend looking for jobs that provide application support.The agentsIf the applicant is overseas or unable to apply for the visa due to unavoidable circumstances, the applicant's employer, a lawyer, a government-certified administrative scrivener, a relative or a roommate can submit the application documents on their behalf. However, proxy applications require the approval of the director of the regional immigration bureau, so not just anyone can do it.Reference: 出入国審査・在留審査Q&A／出入国在留管理庁Documents Required for Applying for a Work Visa for IT Engineers in JapanThe following documents are required for applying for the status of residence (work visa) necessary for working as an IT engineer in Japan.PassportOne visa application form (two visa application forms for Russian, CIS, and Georgian nationals)One photograph (two photographs for Russian, CIS, and Georgian nationals)Certificate of eligibility for status of residence (original and copy)Chinese nationals should also prepare the following documentsA copy of the family registerTemporary residence permit or certificate of residence (if you do not have a registered domicile in the jurisdiction of the Japanese embassy or consulate-general where you are applying)*Depending on your nationality, there may be other documents required in addition to the above, so be sure to check the website of the relevant consulate-general.Reference: Visas / Ministry of Foreign Affairs of JapanThe time it takes to obtain a work visa for IT engineers in JapanIt takes 1 to 3 months to process the “Certificate of Eligibility” required for applying for a status of residence (work visa). In order to start work on time, you should apply well in advance, while keeping in touch with the company.Also, the Certificate of Eligibility is valid for 3 months from the date of issue. Once you have received the Certificate of Eligibility, you should immediately go to the Japanese embassy or consulate to apply for your visa.Reference: 在留資格認定証明書とは？申請から入国までの流れを解説／ビザプロIT engineers should make sure to obtain a “work visa” in order to work in Japan!Even if you have managed to secure a job in Japan, if there is a problem with your visa, you may not be able to enter the country, let alone work. In order to work in Japan, make sure to obtain the correct status of residence (work visa) and be careful not to work illegally. If you are thinking about changing jobs or finding a job in Japan, we recommend using "G Talent", a job-changing platform for foreign engineers. 40% of the jobs listed on the site pay 8 million yen or more per year, so you can find a job that suits you.You can also receive visa support, so if you have any concerns after reading this article, please feel free to use the service. If you are interested, start by registering for free.

There are many foreigners who want to work in Japan, and most of them will have understood the differences in working styles and culture before coming to Japan. However, there are not only differences in working styles, but also differences in real estate and rental properties between Japan and other countries. In order to work smoothly in Japan, it is important to be aware of the differences in real estate and rental properties in advance, as well as the differences in working styles.In this article, we will explain the points to keep in mind when living in Japanese real estate and rental properties for foreigners who want to work in Japan or who have already decided to work here. If you want to find a comfortable working environment in Japan, please use the job-placement agency “G Talent”, which can introduce you to jobs at global IT companies that suit you.Common problems with Japanese real estate and rental propertiesWhen you live in a country for the first time, you may be confused by the local customs and culture. The following are some of the common problems that foreign residents of Japan have when renting real estate properties.Neighborly problemsDifferences in rulesContracts and cancellationsNeighborly problemsWhen foreigners live in Japan, they often rent a room in an apartment or condominium, and they tend to behave in the following ways.Inviting friends to your room and making a lot of noiseParking your bicycle in front of your room's entrance and blocking the communal passagewayIn Japan, the above actions are basically considered to be nuisance behavior. These are basic rules, so in some cases the real estate company may not mention them as points to be careful of. In some countries, having a house party is a common thing, but in Japan it is a culture that is not very familiar. If you are not sure about the extent of what is considered quiet, check with the real estate company in advance.Reference: 【営業マン必見】外国の人に説明すべき日本の賃貸ルールを徹底解説！／CHINTAI JOURNALDifferences in rulesIn Japan, detailed housing rules such as the following are set by real estate agencies and rental properties.Dumping rubbish outside of the designated days or placeDumping rubbish without sorting itLeaving rubbish on the balconyFalling behind on rent paymentsSharing a room with a friend when living aloneIt is common for these rules to be explained verbally by the real estate agency at the time of signing the contract. However, if your Japanese level is not high, it is possible that you may miss important points. In some countries, there are no rules like the above for real estate or rental properties, and it is possible that you could end up breaking the rules without realizing it.Reference: 賃貸におけるゴミ出しのマナーってどんなものがあるの？／公社の賃貸ブログContracts and cancellationsThe following are common problems that occur when foreigners sign or cancel a contract for real estate or rental property in Japan.Not understanding the “deposit”, “key money” and “renewal fee”Moving out without contacting the real estate company in advanceLeaving behind things you don't need in the room when moving outleaving without cancelling electricity, gas, water, etc.Even rules that are considered normal in Japan are not common for foreigners, so problems can arise regarding contracts and cancellations.Reference: 外国人との賃貸契約は空室解消に有効！よくあるトラブルや対策も解説／アブレイズパートナーズPoints to note when foreigners live in Japanese real estate and rental propertiesNo matter which country you live in, there are always local customs and rules. When foreigners move into rental accommodation in Japan, they will still have to live by the rules of Japan. In order to get along well with the people around you in a Japanese apartment block, it is important to keep the following eight points in mind.Find a guarantorCheck the contract detailsDon't make too much noiseFollow the rules for taking out the rubbishReport any equipment faultsNo one other than the contract holder lives in the roomReport when moving outRestore the room to its original state when moving outFind a guarantorWhen signing a rental contract in Japan, you will be asked to find a guarantor who will pay the rent if you fail to pay it. It is common to ask a relative with a stable income to be your guarantor, but for foreigners who have come to Japan alone, it is common to ask a Japanese friend or a friend with a high level of Japanese to be your guarantor.However, it is difficult to find someone to act as a guarantor because of the money involved. If you cannot find a guarantor, you can use a “guarantee company” that will act as a guarantor for a fee. Some of the many guarantee companies have a good track record of dealing with foreigners.Reference: 外国人の賃貸契約に保証人は不要？ おすすめ対応策も紹介！【専門家のアドバイスあり】／マイナビBizCheck the contract detailsWhen renting real estate, you will sign a contract with the real estate company. The rental contract will clearly state the initial costs to be paid at the time of signing, as well as the rules for during the tenancy, when renewing the contract, and when moving out, etc. Be sure to read the contract carefully.It may be difficult for foreigners to understand the contract, as it is written in Japanese and full of technical terms, but it is important to understand the contents while asking questions of the real estate company, as it contains important information. When the contract is complete, the renter's signature is required, but one important point is to make sure you understand the contents of the contract before signing it.Reference: 賃貸借契約のチェックポイント／不動産ジャパンDon't make too much noiseWhen living in an apartment or condominium, you need to be careful not to make noise or vibrations, especially at night and in the early morning. Things like inviting friends over late at night and making noise, or running the washing machine or vacuum cleaner in the middle of the night may cause problems with your neighbors. If you cause a nuisance to your neighbors with noise, complaints may be passed on to the management or real estate company, and you may be asked to leave your room.Reference: 騒音の発生主を強制退去させる方法｜騒音トラブル対処時の注意点も解説／GMO賃貸DXFollow the rules for taking out the rubbishRubbish collection points are places where problems such as smells and crows causing damage are likely to occur. For this reason, in many rental properties in Japan, rules for taking out the rubbish, such as where to take it out, the date and time, and how to sort it, are set out in detail.In the case of apartment buildings and other multi-unit dwellings, the doors to the garbage collection point may be locked at times other than the designated collection times. It is normal in Japan to follow the rules for taking out the garbage, so please make sure to follow the rules for taking out the garbage to prevent any problems.Reference: 日本のゴミ捨てルールは複雑すぎる？その理由と海外のゴミ処理事情をチェック！／yh株式会社Report any equipment faultsIn Japan, it is common for the owner to bear the repair costs for equipment that was originally installed in the property, such as air conditioners, gas stoves, gas water heaters, and lighting, if it breaks down. However, if you repair the equipment yourself without contacting the owner, or if you leave it broken until you move out, there is a chance that you will not be reimbursed for the repair costs, or that you will be charged for it when you move out. If you notice that any equipment has broken down, contact the management company or the owner immediately.However, if the equipment failure was caused by the negligence of the tenant, the tenant will have to pay for the repairs. In this case, please contact the management company or owner first.No one other than the contract holder lives in the roomIn Japan, only the contract holder is allowed to live in a rental property for one person, such as a studio apartment. This is clearly stated in most rental contracts, so one thing to be careful of is that it is a breach of contract to share a rental property for one person with a friend, or to sublet the room you have rented to someone else, such as a friend.It is highly likely that a roommate or subletting to someone else will be discovered through a report from a neighbor. If you break the contract, you will be forced to leave the room, so make sure that only the person who signed the contract lives in the room.Reference: 名義貸し賃貸は違法？賃貸契約後に考えられる問題点やリスク・注意点を解説／テクトピアReport when moving outOnce you have decided to move out of your rental property, it is common practice in Japan to contact the owner or real estate agency. The general rule is to give one or two months' notice, but the date you should give notice will depend on the real estate agency or owner, so please check your rental contract. If the rental contract includes a special clause on advance notice of cancellation, you must follow this. Please note that in some cases you will need to give notice in writing when cancelling your contract. Restoring the room to its original state when you move outWhen you move out of a rented property, you are required to return the room to its original state, in accordance with the regulations known as “restoring the property to its original state”. The tenant is responsible for paying for any repairs that are the result of the tenant's intentional or negligent actions, such as yellowing of the walls due to smoking or holes accidentally made. On the other hand, the owner or management company will pay for repairs such as the deterioration of wallpaper due to sunlight or the wear and tear of flooring due to everyday use.Restoration costs are deducted from the deposit you paid to the real estate agency or owner when you signed the contract. In general, if there are no intentional or negligent scratches or stains, and the damage is due to normal wear and tear, the deposit will be refunded. On the other hand, if the restoration costs are higher than the deposit, you may be charged an additional fee. To avoid being in a panic when you move out, make sure you keep your room clean.Reference: 原状回復義務とは？どこまで自己負担?免除? 不動産賃貸で注意すべきこと、原状回復ガイドラインについて分かりやすく解説／SUUMOThings you should do before looking for real estate or rental properties in JapanUse the above information on common problems and points to watch out for as a guide when looking for rental properties in Japan. When looking for real estate in Japan, we recommend keeping the following four points in mind.Learn about Japan's unique culture and mannersFind a rental property in an area that is easy for foreigners to live inFind a rental property through a real estate agency that has a lot of experience dealing with foreignersKnow where to go for advice if you have any problemsLearn about Japan's unique culture and mannersFor foreigners from Western countries and other parts of Asia, Japan is a country with a unique culture. There are various cultural and manner differences not only in work and everyday life, but also in the living environment. If you are living in Japan as a foreigner, it is easier to live here if you are aware of these unique Japanese cultures and manners. In particular, understanding the Japanese culture introduced here will help you avoid problems.Reference: 海外では通じない！？日本文化特有の生活とは？具体例5選／にほんご日和Find a rental property in an area that is easy for foreigners to live inIn Tokyo, there are an increasing number of areas where many foreigners live, such as Koto-ku and Setagaya-ku. One of the main features of these areas is that it is easy for foreigners to pass the screening process for moving in. Some real estate agencies in these areas are aware of the living situation of foreigners, so there is a possibility that they will be able to show you rental properties that are easy to live in.Reference: 東京都の住所から外国人向けの賃貸物件を探す／CHINTAIFind a rental property through a real estate agency that has a lot of experience dealing with foreignersWhen looking for a rental property through a real estate website, try searching for properties using the keyword “properties for foreigners”. You can check the name of the real estate agency that is acting as an intermediary in the property information, and there is a high chance that you will find a real estate agency that deals with many rental properties that foreigners can move into. If you use a real estate agency that deals with many rental properties that foreigners can move into, there are advantages such as an easier screening process and the ability to communicate in English.Reference: 東京都の外国籍フレンドリーな不動産会社一覧／HOME'SKnow where to go for advice if you have any problemsIf you have a problem with the management company, real estate agency, or owner, you can consult the following.List of consultation servicesDetails and methods of consultationConsultation services for real estate agencies in each prefectureTelephoneReal Estate Transaction Improvement Organization (RETIO)Free telephone consultation service for lease contracts. 0570-021-030Japan Property Management AssociationConsultation service for problems while living in a rental property. Accepts inquiries via email form, letters, etc.Housing Reform and Dispute Resolution Support Center (Smile Dial)You can call for advice on housing-related problems. 0570-016-100, 03-3556-5147Japan Consumer AssociationYou can call for advice on various problems and request mediation. 03-5282-5319Consumer Hotline 188 (Iya-ya)This service provides information by phone about consumer affairs centers and consumer affairs consultation services set up by local public bodies. National unified number 188HouterasuA national general information center for resolving legal problems. By phone on 0570-078374 or by email form.If you have a problem with your neighbors, consult with your real estate agent or property management company.If you are living in Japan, make sure you understand the points to watch out for when renting or buying propertyIf you are a foreigner moving into a rental property in Japan, it is important to understand the unique Japanese rental rules and customs when signing a contract. By being aware of the points to watch out for, you can prevent the various problems we have introduced here, and live comfortably in Japan, even though it is a different culture.If you are looking for a job in Japan as well as a comfortable place to live, we recommend using the job-placement agency “GitTap”, which only deals with global IT companies. You can receive a wide range of support, including not only job information but also visa acquisition and salary negotiations.