Japan Jobs
Job market overview, popular sectors, salary expectations, work permits, and trusted job platforms for Japan.
Job Market Overview
Japan faces a serious labour shortage due to its aging population, and has been actively expanding visa categories for foreign workers since 2019. The Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) visa is the primary route for South Asian workers, covering 14 industrial sectors. Japanese language ability (JLPT N4 or equivalent) is typically required.
The Technical Intern Training Program (TITP) is also used but has faced significant criticism for worker exploitation. Before committing to any program, verify the agency through our licensed recruitment agencies directory. For complete visa and relocation details, read our Japan work guide.
Popular Sectors for Foreign Workers
Manufacturing
Auto parts, electronics, food processing β the largest employer of SSW visa holders
Agriculture & Fisheries
Farm workers and fishery processing β seasonal and full-year positions available
Food Service & Hospitality
Restaurants, hotels, and catering β requires basic Japanese communication
Construction
Labourers, equipment operators, concrete workers β strong demand for infrastructure projects
Nursing Care (Kaigo)
Elderly care workers β requires Japanese language and care worker certification
IT & Engineering
Software engineers and technical specialists β usually on Engineer/Specialist visa
Salary Ranges
SSW Workers
Β₯180K β Β₯250K
per month
Minimum Wage
Β₯1,000 β Β₯1,200
per hour (varies by prefecture)
IT / Engineers
Β₯300K β Β₯600K
per month
Work Permits & Visas
Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) Type 1: up to 5 years, requires passing sector-specific and Japanese language exams. SSW Type 2: allows indefinite renewal and family sponsorship. Engineer/Specialist in Humanities visa: for degree holders with job offers. Your employer must be registered as a receiving organization.
Need Help?
Related resources from our guides to help you prepare.
Recruitment Agencies
Find licensed agencies recruiting workers for Japan jobs.
Education Consultants
Find consultants for Japan study programs.
Japan Work Guide
Complete guide covering visas, accommodation, banking, and more.
Build Your CV
Create a professional CV tailored for Japanese employers.
Find Jobs on Trusted Platforms
These are independent job portals β we are not affiliated with any of them. We link to them because they are legitimate and widely used by employers in Japan.
Hello Work (γγγΌγ―γΌγ―)
Japan's official government employment service β free for all job seekers including foreign workers.
GaijinPot Jobs
Japan's largest English-language job board β strong for both skilled and entry-level roles.
Indeed Japan
Global job board with extensive Japanese listings β search in English or Japanese.
LinkedIn Jobs
Professional network β strongest for IT, engineering, and corporate roles in Japan.
SmartCV Builders does not host job listings. The platforms linked above are independent third-party websites. We recommend these portals based on their reputation and legitimacy, but we are not responsible for the content, accuracy, or hiring practices of any external site. Always verify job offers independently and never pay upfront fees to employers.