Japan is known for its very rich culinary culture which makes the country one of the most popular tourist destinations. This also makes it one of the most attractive destinations to look for jobs in the restaurant and hospitality industry. If you’re a chef looking for a job or simply want to become a barista, there are a lot of opportunities waiting for you in Japan.
There are many restaurants and other similar establishments that are looking for people who have the right skills to work for them. This is why it is important that you learn a few things about working in Japan before you jump straight into applying for these job openings.
In this guide, you learn more about how to find your next culinary opportunities and find the best restaurant jobs in Japan.
The Many Requirements for Applying for Restaurant Jobs in Japan
Securing a restaurant job in Japan requires a lot of permits, certificates, and many other requirements.
It can vary from the kind of job and position that you’re applying for, especially with the type of establishment.
However, here are some of the most common requirements when you apply for restaurant jobs in Japan.
Age Requirement
Many restaurant establishments in Japan will require their applicants to be at least 18 years old and above.
Many positions may even require you to be at least 20 years old and above, especially in establishments that serve alcohol.
It is important that you know this requirement so you can base your application depending on the type of establishment that offers such job opportunities.
Work Visa and Other Documents
When you’re applying for jobs in Japan, you will need to have a work visa amongst many other things especially if you are a foreigner.
Students will need to get a work permit before they are allowed to apply. You can either apply for a Working Holiday Visa or a Specified Skilled Worker Visa first before you can apply.
All employers will be asking you if you already have one before you can even apply. Make sure that you have already prepared these documents.
Language Skills
In many parts of Japan, you will be required to be fluent in Japanese, especially in speaking and writing. You will be hosting different customers, many of which will be local Japanese.
All employees need to be able to interact with the customers hence this requirement is one of the most critical when applying for restaurant jobs in Japan.
Health Certification
As with many other requirements all over the world, you will also be required to submit a health certification. This can be obtained by undergoing several training and certification programs.
This helps ensure that you know the hygiene and health standards within Japan, and you can practice them when you’re on duty.
Make sure that you also have different certificates that prove you have the skills required by certain job positions.
Steps in Applying for Restaurant Jobs in Japan
Applying for restaurant jobs in Japan will be very difficult since they are very strict with their hygiene and health standards.
As you may have noticed, restaurants in Japan have very accurate standards for preparing their food, which is why they screen as many people as possible.
Only the best are hired in the restaurant industry in Japan. Below, find out the entire application process and learn how to apply for restaurant jobs in Japan.
Researching Job Openings
The first step to applying for restaurant jobs in Japan is to research which job openings are suited to your set of skills. You do not want to apply for jobs that you’re not qualified for or you don’t have the skills for.
Avoid wasting your time and do proper research to find the best job opportunities for you within the restaurant industry.
You should also do your research regarding the specific qualifications for the role you’re applying for.
Take Advantage of Online Platforms
There are a lot of online platforms that market different restaurant jobs in Japan. You can take advantage of these online platforms like Work Japan and find the right jobs that will fit your skills.
All you need to do is to register an account and you can start using the platform. Use the search function and you can even filter different categories to find the specific job opening that you’re looking for.
Applying Online
To apply using these online platforms, simply log in to your account and head back to the job opening to which you want to apply.
Click Apply and review the job description, including the qualifications and requirements, in case you missed anything. When you’re ready, fill out the online application form with your details and upload any required documents.
Make sure that the documents are fully uploaded and that you have thoroughly reviewed the application form before you submit.
Phone Interview
In Japan, most of the initial interviews are conducted over the phone. This minimizes the need for applicants to come to their office or establishment for a 15-minute interview.
However, some establishments may require you to come to their office for the interview. You need to provide them with the most accurate and honest answers to their questions.
Be sure to come before your call time, as many Japanese often take tardiness as a sign of disrespect.
Job Offer and Training
After the interview, they will review your application, and if selected, you might receive a job offer. You will be invited back to their office for the job offer, where you will be oriented to the position’s responsibilities and the schedule of your training.
This is also where you will tour the entire establishment to familiarize yourself with the entire facility.
Most of the employers will also orient you in their day-to-day process so you know what to do. After the orientation, there will be days or weeks of training before you start your job.
Conclusion
It can be quite challenging to apply for restaurant jobs in Japan. There are a lot of requirements and strict qualifications that you need to meet before you can even apply for the job. By learning the application process and what you need to do to prepare, you can have an advantage over many of your competitors which gives you more chances of getting hired for the job.
