Average Salaries for Foreign Workers in Japan (2026 Guide)

As of 2026, salaries in Japan vary widely depending on industry, experience, education, location, and Japanese language ability. For foreign professionals, income potential often depends on job category and whether Japanese language proficiency is required or optional.

This guide provides an overview of average annual salaries for foreigners in Japan, typical ranges by sector, and tips for negotiating better pay.

1. National Average Salary (All Workers)

According to the Japan Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW), the average annual salary (nenpūkin – 年俸金) for all full-time employees in Japan—including Japanese and foreign workers—was approximately:

¥4,600,000 – ¥4,800,000 per year (2025 data, reflecting trends into 2026)

This figure serves as a benchmark when comparing salaries for foreign workers.

Key Terms to Know:

• Annual salary (nenpūkin – 年俸金)

• Monthly salary (getsuhi – 月俸)

2. Average Salary for Foreign Workers in Japan (2026)

Foreign salaries often mirror national averages, but ranges vary significantly by job type and language skills.

A. English-Only Roles (Limited Japanese Required)

Roles where English is dominant, such as teaching or international customer support, typically pay:

• English Teacher / ALT (Assistant Language Teacher): ¥3,000,000 – ¥4,200,000

• Tourism & Service Roles (Entry-Level): ¥2,800,000 – ¥3,500,000

These roles often include benefits such as accommodation support or travel allowances.

B. IT and Engineering Roles (Technical Jobs)

Foreign professionals in tech roles—usually under the Engineer / Specialist in Humanities / International Services visa (gijutsusha / jinbun chishiki / kokusai gyōmu – 技術・人文知識・国際業務)—tend to earn higher salaries:

• Software Engineer / Developer: ¥6,000,000 – ¥10,000,000+

• Cloud Architect / DevOps Engineer: ¥7,000,000 – ¥12,000,000+

• Data Scientist / AI Specialist: ¥7,000,000 – ¥13,000,000+

High demand in AI, cloud computing, and digital sectors drives these competitive salaries.

C. Finance, Consulting, and Corporate Roles

Professionals in business, finance, or consulting often earn:

• Finance / Accounting Specialist: ¥5,000,000 – ¥9,000,000

• Management Consultant: ¥8,000,000 – ¥15,000,000+

• Corporate Strategy / Business Development: ¥6,000,000 – ¥12,000,000+

Advanced degrees and international experience can significantly increase pay.

D. Skilled and Specified Skilled Worker Roles

Workers under the Specified Skilled Worker visa (tokutei ginō – 特定技能), mainly in manufacturing, construction, or services, typically earn:

¥3,000,000 – ¥4,500,000 per year

Basic Japanese proficiency improves earning potential, though many roles do not require fluency.

3. Salary by Region

Salaries in Japan vary by location:

Foreign professionals in major cities generally earn more, reflecting higher living costs.

4. Foreign Language Premium

Employers increasingly value language skills beyond Japanese, especially in:

• English

• Chinese

• Spanish

• Korean

High proficiency often translates into better salaries and more competitive job offers.

5. Benefits Beyond Base Salary

In Japan, many foreign professionals receive benefits that significantly increase total compensation:

• Housing allowance (jūtaku teate – 住宅手当)

• Commuting allowance (kōtsū teate – 交通手当)

• Bonuses (bōnasu – ボーナス)

• Health insurance (kenkō hoken – 健康保険)

• Pension contributions (nenkin – 年金)

Bonuses are customary in Japan and often boost total annual income considerably.

6. Tips for Salary Growth

A. Improve Japanese Language Skills

• Achieving JLPT N2 or higher (Nihongo nōryoku shiken – 日本語能力試験) often unlocks higher-paying opportunities.

B. Gain Specialized Skills

• Careers in AI, cloud computing, cybersecurity, and data science offer above-average salaries.

C. Negotiate Effectively

• Understanding industry standards and your market value helps secure better offers.

7. How Salaries Compare Internationally

Compared with Western countries, Japanese salaries may appear moderate. However, bonuses, social insurance (shakai hoken – 社会保険), and job stability make total compensation competitive.

Conclusion

Foreign professionals in Japan can expect a wide range of salaries depending on industry, skills, language ability, and location.

By improving Japanese proficiency, gaining in-demand technical skills, and understanding regional salary trends, foreign workers can maximize both pay and career growth in Japan.