Many people come to Japan to vacation, while others come to study. For many students, having a part-time job can help with their finances as they study in Japan. The same goes for expats who want to earn a good income.
If you’re in Japan as a foreigner and you want to work part-time, there are many ways to get a job. However, it can be quite difficult for you if you are unprepared for all the requirements and qualifications. This is why you need to do your research properly.
Fortunately, this article will help you learn how to apply for part-time jobs in Japan and get flexible work, especially if you’re a student or an expat. Check it out below.
Preparation Needed for Part-Time Jobs for Students and Expats
If you want to apply for part-time jobs in Japan as a student or expat, you might want to research and prepare first.
It is always best that you equip yourself with more information so you don’t waste your time and get hired as fast as possible.
Here are some of the preparations you need to apply for part-time jobs in Japan.
Get My Number First
The Japanese government has set up a system that tracks individuals’ working hours and pay, among other details.
My Number is a 12-digit government card that can also be regarded as a person’s security or tax number. Every employee who wants to work in Japan will need to get this card, especially if they plan on staying longer in Japan.
This makes all of your information, including your income, tax information, and working hours, available for the government to see.
Contact Number
Aside from getting your My Number, you will also need to have a Japanese contact number as well.
Any company that you want to apply to will require you to have contact details so you can be easily reached.
They often also want to do their initial interview over a phone call instead of the traditional in-person interview.
Passport, Work Permit, or Resident Card
If you wish to be employed in Japan, all employees will require you to present your passport or a resident card.
This makes it easier for them to check if you are not staying in the country illegally or if you are not doing any form of fraudulent activity during your time of employment.
Make sure that if you’re planning on applying for any job whether it is part-time or full-time, you need to have a work permit first.
Where to Find Part-Time Jobs in Japan
Finding a part-time job in Japan as a student or expat can be difficult.
While they do allow students to apply for part-time jobs even without any work experience, this can be stressful if you don’t know where to look.
Here are some of the best ways for you to find part-time jobs in Japan.
Job Search Websites
There are job search websites such as Work Japan that offer a wide variety of jobs for you to apply for. Many of them also offer part-time job opportunities.
Simply use the search function to look for job opportunities. You can even filter the search function by location, hours, job type, and many more.
Check University Resources
For many students who want to work in part-time jobs, you can check your university resources to find one.
There are career centers in many universities across Japan that present part-time job opportunities for students. This is way easier for you to find the best positions.
Visit Local Establishments
One of the best ways to look for part-time jobs is to directly ask the establishments. If you have free time, go around different local businesses and ask them if there are part-time job openings.
Walk into shops, cafes, restaurants, and many other local businesses and inquire directly to the manager.
Application Process for Part-Time Jobs in Japan
As a modern country, Japan is one of the most attractive options for those who want to work both full-time and part-time.
Students and expats who want to earn extra income can apply for part-time jobs when they are fully prepared with the requirements and qualifications.
Here is how you can apply for part-time jobs in Japan for students and expats.
Search for Jobs That Match Your Skills
There are a lot of websites out there like Work Japan that offer part-time jobs. Whether it is for restaurant jobs or any other establishments, there will always be jobs waiting for you.
Use the search function properly and type the keywords that you need to get a good result.
Make sure that you match your skills with the job that you like on these platforms so they come up with the right set of part-time jobs.
Check Your Benefits
Most of the time, these websites and online platforms also have the complete job descriptions as well as the benefits you get when you work part-time.
Part-time employees might only get several benefits but it differs from one establishment to another.
There are even others that offer full benefits that are almost similar to full-time employees. All you need to do is to find the perfect employer and research properly.
Apply Online
Once you have chosen the perfect job opportunity, it is time for you to submit your application online. Fill out the online application form with your details and make sure that you write it in Japanese as much as possible.
You will be more favored when you learn how to write, speak, and understand Japanese.
It will be your most precious advantage if you apply for any job in Japan, aside from experience. Double-check everything before you submit.
Phone Interview
As mentioned above, many employers in Japan would rather do a phone interview first before they invite you to their establishment.
This helps them save more time and efficiently filter out any unqualified applicants. With this, you must leave a good first impression on your employer.
Be as fluent in Japanese as possible so you can speak to your employer during the interview.
Job Offer
For many part-time jobs, you can get a job offer after the phone interview, depending on the kind of job that you’re applying for.
Many employers often want to ask you for an in-person interview to check your qualifications further. If you’re lucky, you can get a job offer after the first interview.
Check the job offer and sign it if you agree with the terms so you can start your training and your job.
Conclusion
Part-time jobs are great opportunities for students and expats in Japan to earn a decent amount of income. It can also help them gain valuable work experience should they want to work after they graduate. Having part-time jobs also lets you immerse into the Japanese culture very well.
