Best jobs in Japan for foreigners without Japanese

Finding a job in Japan without Japanese language skills may seem challenging, but it’s entirely possible in industries where English, technical skills, or specialized expertise are prioritized. Many companies actively hire foreigners to fill global-facing roles, technical positions, and labor shortages.

This guide covers the best job options, typical requirements, visa considerations, and practical tips for success.

1. English Teacher / Language Instructor

Visa type:

• Instructor (教員 – Kyōin)

• Engineer / Specialist in Humanities / International Services (技術・人文知識・国際業務 – Gijutsusha / Jinbun Chishiki / Kokusai Gyōmu)

Why it works:

• English is the primary requirement

• Minimal Japanese needed for work tasks

• High demand nationwide

Typical employers:

• Private language schools (英会話 – Eikaiwa)

• Public schools via dispatch companies

• International kindergartens

Basic Japanese helps daily life but is not required for work.

2. IT Engineer / Software Developer

Visa type: Engineer (技術者 – Gijutsusha)

Why it works:

• Many tech teams operate in English

• Skills matter more than language ability

• Remote or hybrid work is often possible

Common roles:

• Software developer

• Cloud engineer

• Data analyst

• AI engineer

Requirements:

• Degree or professional experience

• Technical interview (usually in English)

3. Factory Worker (Specified Skilled Worker)

Visa type: Specified Skilled Worker (特定技能 – Tokutei Ginō)

Why it works:

• Severe labor shortages in manufacturing

• Minimal Japanese required

• On-the-job training provided

Industries:

• Food processing

• Electronics assembly

• Manufacturing

Basic Japanese improves safety and promotion opportunities but is not mandatory.

4. Hotel & Tourism Staff

Visa type: Specified Skilled Worker (Tokutei Ginō) or International Services (国際業務 – Kokusai Gyōmu)

Why it works:

• English-speaking guests are common

• Tourist regions need foreign staff

• Language support is often provided

Popular locations:

• Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Okinawa

• Ski resorts in Hokkaido and Nagano

5. ALT (Assistant Language Teacher)

Visa type: Instructor (教員 – Kyōin)

Why it works:

• No Japanese required initially

• Structured teaching environment

• Government-backed programs ensure placement

Common programs:

• JET Programme (JETプログラム – JET Puroguramu)

• Private dispatch companies

6. International Sales / Overseas Business

Visa type: International Services (国際業務 – Kokusai Gyōmu)

Why it works:

• Foreign language ability is a strong asset

• Japanese often optional

• Focused on global markets

Typical roles:

• Overseas sales

• Import/export coordination

• Market research

7. Restaurant Staff (Tourist Areas or Foreign-Owned)

Visa type: Specified Skilled Worker (Tokutei Ginō)

Why it works:

• Labor shortages in food service

• English-friendly workplaces

• On-the-job Japanese learning possible

Japanese required is usually limited to basic phrases and menu items.

8. Modeling, Acting & Entertainment

Visa type: Entertainer (興行 – Kōgyō)

Why it works:

• Language is often irrelevant

• Appearance and talent are the focus

• Work is typically project-based

Common fields:

• Commercial modeling

• TV extras

• Fashion shows

9. Startups & Foreign Companies

Visa type: Engineer / Specialist in Humanities / International Services (技術・人文知識・国際業務 – Gijutsusha / Jinbun Chishiki / Kokusai Gyōmu)

Why it works:

• English is the company language

• International teams with flexible hiring

• Focused on technical skills

Industries:

• Tech, fintech, consulting, digital marketing

10. Internship & Working Holiday Jobs

Visa type: Working Holiday (ワーキングホリデー – Wākingu Horidē)

Why it works:

• No Japanese requirement

• Flexible, short-term work

• Cultural immersion opportunity

Common jobs:

• Cafes, hostels, farms, seasonal resorts

11. Visa Considerations for Non-Japanese Speakers

• Visa category matters more than language

• Immigration reviews job content, not fluency

• Employer sponsorship is essential (雇用支援 – Koyō Shien)

• Always confirm the role qualifies for your visa (在留資格 – Zairyū Shikaku)

12. Tips to Get Hired Without Japanese

• Target foreign-owned or international companies

• Highlight English and technical skills prominently

• Use international job platforms

• Prepare English CVs (Japanese optional)

• Learn basic survival Japanese gradually (生活日本語 – Seikatsu Nihongo)

Official References

• Immigration Services Agency of Japan – 出入国在留管理庁

• JET Programme Official Site – JETプログラム