12 Essential Steps for Moving to Japan, as Recommended by Expats

Embarking on a new life in Japan is an exhilarating journey, offering a wealth of experiences. With its safe cities, abundant job opportunities, and stunning natural beauty, Japan stands out as a premier destination for individuals looking to advance their careers and acquire valuable skills in a leading global economy.

This guide provides step-by-step instructions for a smooth transition to the land of the rising sun!

1. Budget for your move

Relocating to a new country, particularly one with a high cost of living, can become costly in no time. To ease financial worries, it’s essential to budget in advance. This proactive approach helps you steer clear of unforeseen expenses and unnecessary debt, allowing for a smoother transition to your new home.

Before you relocate, it’s essential to evaluate the living costs in your new city or neighborhood. Be sure to factor in expenses such as groceries and transportation when creating your budget. For instance, living in Tokyo is significantly more expensive than in cities like Kyoto and Osaka, so understanding these differences can help you plan better for your move.

Next, assess your moving expenses by factoring in airfare, visa application fees, and temporary housing costs. If you’re planning to ship furniture, be sure to request a quote from an international moving company for accurate budgeting.

When embarking on your journey to learn Japanese, it’s essential to factor in the costs involved. The good news is that there are plenty of budget-friendly online courses available. You can even kickstart your learning for free through various apps, websites, and video resources, before progressing to more advanced classes.

2. Connect with other expats online

Relocating to a new country can be challenging, but joining expat communities can provide both emotional and practical support, making the transition easier. Connecting with fellow expats can help you tackle everyday hurdles in Japan, such as securing an apartment or discovering activities for your children. You don’t have to face this journey alone!

Facebook and Reddit host a variety of expat communities, but for the most useful insights and connections, seek out region-specific groups like “Expats in Tokyo.” Joining these targeted communities not only helps you find pertinent advice but also facilitates friendships with others in your area.

3. Learn or improve your Japanese

Understanding Japanese is essential for navigating daily life, especially since many locals may not speak English fluently. Mastering the language will also simplify reading public transportation signs and help you explore the city with ease.

Mastering some essential Japanese phrases before your arrival can significantly enhance your experience. Although English may be sufficient for basic communication, developing a conversational skillset will allow you to connect more deeply with the culture and people around you.

“When I moved to Japan, I focused on using simple phrases in my daily conversations. This approach allowed me to practice the language and foster meaningful connections with the locals,” shared Peter Solimine, who spent a year in the country. “Before long, I found myself invited into a friend group just a few weeks after arriving.”

If you’re looking to learn Japanese efficiently, an online language course is an excellent choice. Consider enrolling in a program that offers direct interaction with a tutor. At LingualNeeds, our online Japanese tutors tailor their lessons to match your skill level and individual goals. They also provide insights into Japanese culture, helping you integrate seamlessly into your new community.

4. Apply for the right type of visa

The Japanese government provides various long-term stay visas tailored to individual qualifications and the specific reasons for your visit. Your eligibility for a particular visa will depend on your background and goals while in Japan.

• Highly skilled professional visa: A more flexible visa that aims to attract top candidates to live and work in Japan
• Working visa: For professors, business managers, and other types of working professionals
• General visa: For students, trainees, dependents, and people who want to engage in cultural activities
• Designated Visa: A visa type for specific purposes, including those for children or spouses of Japanese citizens, as well as long-term tourist stays in Japan.
• Startup visa: For entrepreneurs
• Diplomatic visa: For people working in diplomacy
• Official visa: For people who work as diplomatic staff

5. Get your Certificate of Eligibility

If you’re planning to stay in Japan for over 90 days, you’ll need to secure a Certificate of Eligibility (COE). This essential document confirms that your intended activities in Japan align with the requirements for entry. But how can you obtain a COE?

To begin your journey to Japan, a Japanese sponsor—such as an employer or family member—needs to submit a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) application on your behalf. Once you receive your COE, you can include it with your visa application at the nearest Japanese embassy. Keep in mind that after obtaining your COE, you must enter Japan within three months to ensure its validity.

6. Secure a job

Securing a job is essential for establishing long-term residency in Japan. Popular roles such as teaching English as a second language (ESL), positions in IT, and jobs in the hospitality sector are in high demand across the country. To kickstart your job hunt, consider exploring international job boards like Daijob and GaijinPot, which specialize in opportunities for foreigners.

When you’re applying for jobs, it’s crucial to focus on your resume. Make sure to highlight your motivation for wanting to work in Japan, particularly if you’re targeting an English-speaking position. Paul Roberts, a seasoned IT recruiter in Tokyo with over two decades of experience, notes that these roles often attract hundreds of applications from overseas. However, it’s important to remember that companies may be hesitant to hire international candidates.

“Hiring managers and HR professionals often worry about the challenges of relocating overseas employees who struggle to adapt to life in Japan and end up returning home,” explained Roberts. “This process can be expensive, time-consuming, and disruptive for everyone involved. Therefore, companies prefer to hire candidates who demonstrate a genuine interest in Japan, even if they have never visited before.”

To demonstrate your dedication to relocating to Japan, use the summary section of your resume to express your motivations for this move. “Clearly convey your interest in a long-term commitment to Japan, mention any previous visits, highlight your appreciation for Japanese culture, or note your efforts in learning the Japanese language,” advises Roberts. This will help hiring managers see your genuine enthusiasm for living and working in Japan.

7. Research your housing options

Finding housing in Japan can be a daunting task for newcomers. It’s essential to dedicate sufficient time to research the real estate market. As Kay A, the author of the Tiny Tot in Tokyo blog and a resident since 2009, points out, “Some landlords may be hesitant to rent to foreigners.”

You’ll also need a guarantor. This is someone who takes responsibility for what you owe the landlord, like rent.

Some landlords ask renters to provide a “reikin,” which is essentially a monetary gift to the landlord. According to Kay, this amount can vary significantly, typically ranging from one month’s rent to as much as three months’ rent, depending on the property’s age and condition.

Discovering your dream property is easy! Explore platforms like Suumo and Minimini for a wide range of listings. Alternatively, consider reaching out to a rental agency for expert assistance throughout your search.

8. Open a Japanese bank account

Upon arriving in Japan, consider opening a local bank account. This step simplifies receiving your salary, withdrawing cash, and managing rent and utility payments. It’s a practical move that enhances your financial convenience while living in the country.

You need the following documents to open an account:

• Passport
• Zairyu (residence card)
• Visa
• Hanko (personal seal)

9. Familiarize yourself with the healthcare system

Familiarize yourself with the Japanese healthcare system before an emergency arises. By understanding its structure and processes, you’ll be better prepared to access the medical care you need when the time comes.

Japan’s healthcare system provides universal coverage for all citizens and residents. If you’re employed in Japan, your health insurance is typically provided through your employer. For those who are unemployed, the National Health Insurance plan based on residency steps in to offer coverage. This comprehensive insurance pays for a variety of services, including hospital visits, medications, and both general and specialized medical care, ensuring that everyone has access to essential health services.

10. Understand your tax obligations in your home country

As you prepare for an exciting move abroad, it’s important not to overlook the laws in your home country. Neglecting these regulations can result in unexpected legal complications.

In countries such as the United States, citizens are required to file tax returns regardless of whether they live and earn income abroad. Before relocating, it’s essential to reach out to your local tax authority to determine if you have any ongoing tax obligations to fulfill. This proactive step can help you avoid potential issues down the line.

11. Learn Japanese customs and etiquette

Japanese customs and etiquette can vary significantly from those of your own culture, so familiarizing yourself with them will enhance your comfort during your visit. For instance, when entering a Japanese home, it is customary to remove your shoes. Taking the time to understand these social norms will help you navigate different situations with ease.

As a working professional, mastering essential business etiquette is crucial, particularly when it comes to exchanging business cards during meetings. In Japanese culture, understanding and respecting hierarchy is equally important; always show deference to those who are older or hold senior positions. This respect fosters strong professional relationships and demonstrates your cultural awareness.

Don’t let the multitude of social customs in Japan intimidate you. Chris Woods, author of *My Dolce Casa* and a two-year resident of Japan, reassures us that even locals occasionally slip up on these cultural norms. So, if you find yourself corrected, remember it’s all part of the learning experience—be kind to yourself!

Learning Japanese with a native tutor not only helps you master the language but also immerses you in the rich culture of Japan. You can even connect with online tutors from specific regions, allowing you to familiarize yourself with unique local customs and dialects.

Japan is renowned for its unique work culture, often characterized by long hours. In many Japanese companies, putting in extra time is not just common; it’s sometimes essential for career advancement and eligibility for bonuses. However, this practice can vary significantly between organizations. If you’re worried about regular overtime, it’s wise to check online reviews to gauge the expectations of potential employers.

12. Complete your residential registration

Upon arriving in Japan, it’s essential to register your residence at the local municipal government office within 14 days. Don’t forget to bring your passport and zairyu card for a smooth registration process.

What should you do if you can’t secure a permanent residence within two weeks? No worries! You can register your address at your hotel or temporary accommodation. Just be sure to update your address once you’ve settled into your new home.

Prepare for the big move with 1-on-1 Japanese lessons

No matter if you’re just starting out or have a grasp of the basics, taking Japanese lessons can be incredibly beneficial when relocating to Japan. Mastering the language will enhance your career prospects, simplify daily tasks, and help you forge meaningful connections with locals, not just other expatriates!

Experience rapid progress in your Japanese language journey with LingualNeeds’s online tutors. They provide personalized feedback and tailor their teaching methods to align with your specific goals and proficiency level, ensuring each lesson is impactful. Plus, with tutors available across all time zones, you’ll easily find one that fits your busy schedule.