Teaching English in Japan is an opportunity to immerse yourself in a different culture while developing professionally. The country’s blend of ancient tradition and modern innovation is a draw for many. This path offers a chance to gain international experience and impact students’ lives, and is an achievable goal for those who meet the foundational criteria.
General Requirements for Teaching in Japan
Aspiring educators must meet a set of baseline requirements. These are non-negotiable for employment and the necessary work visa. The primary requirement is holding a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university. While degrees in education or English are helpful, the field of study is often not a limiting factor, as a degree in any subject fulfills this requirement.
Another prerequisite is citizenship from a country where English is the native language, such as the U.S., U.K., Canada, Australia, or New Zealand. This is often tied directly to visa eligibility. Some employers may consider candidates who have received at least 12 years of their formal education in English, even if they are not from one of these countries. Finally, applicants must possess a clean criminal record.
Types of Teaching Positions
The most common entry point into the Japanese education system is as an Assistant Language Teacher (ALT). ALTs work in public elementary, junior high, or high schools alongside a Japanese teacher. Their primary role is to create an engaging English-speaking environment, assist with lesson plans, and act as a cultural ambassador. This position often provides an immersive experience into daily Japanese life and the public school system.
Teaching at a private language school, known as an Eikaiwa, is another option. These schools cater to a wide range of students, from young children to business professionals, holding classes in the afternoons, evenings, and on weekends. The teaching environment is often more structured, with a set curriculum and smaller class sizes. This role allows for a focus on conversational English and can offer more scheduling flexibility compared to an ALT.
For educators with formal teaching credentials and experience, international schools are another option. These institutions follow an international curriculum, such as the International Baccalaureate (IB), and serve both expatriate and Japanese students seeking an English-based education. Responsibilities are similar to those of a teacher in their home country, including curriculum development, grading, and parent-teacher conferences. These positions are competitive and demand a higher level of qualification.
University instructor positions are available for those with advanced degrees, such as a master’s or doctorate. These roles involve teaching English to university students, often with a focus on academic or specialized English. Responsibilities may also include research and publication. University jobs offer greater autonomy and are among the most sought-after teaching positions in Japan.
Valuable Qualifications to Boost Your Application
While a bachelor’s degree and native English ability are the baseline, certain qualifications can make an application stand out. Certifications in teaching English to speakers of other languages are valued by employers. The most recognized of these are TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language), TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages), and CELTA (Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults).
These programs provide classroom management skills, lesson planning techniques, and an understanding of language acquisition. Completing a course with at least 120 hours of study is often recommended. While not always mandatory for entry-level positions, holding one of these certificates demonstrates a commitment to the profession and can open doors to better-paying jobs. Any prior teaching or tutoring experience will also strengthen a resume, as does an interest in learning the Japanese language.
The Job Application Process
One avenue is the Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Programme, a government-sponsored initiative that places ALTs in public schools across the country. The JET Programme is known for its support system and is a popular choice for recent graduates, with a structured annual application cycle.
Many large Eikaiwa chains like Interac and Westgate recruit directly through their corporate websites. These companies often hire year-round. Additionally, a number of specialized online job boards aggregate listings from various types of schools throughout Japan. A standard application package includes a professional resume, a cover letter tailored to the position, and copies of university diplomas and transcripts.
Securing Your Work Visa
The employer in Japan initiates the visa process on the applicant’s behalf by applying for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) from the Japanese immigration authorities. This document certifies that the applicant meets the conditions for a work visa and is the most time-consuming part of the procedure.
Once the COE is issued and sent to the applicant, they must take it, along with their passport and other required documents, to the nearest Japanese embassy or consulate. The embassy will then process this information and issue the work visa, which is placed inside the passport. The specific visa type will depend on the employer; ALTs in public schools receive an Instructor Visa, while Eikaiwa teachers get a Specialist in Humanities/International Services visa.
Salary and Living Expenses
An entry-level English teacher can expect to earn a monthly salary ranging from ¥240,000 to ¥280,000 (approximately $2,500 to $3,000 USD). Salaries can be higher for those with advanced qualifications or in more senior roles at universities or international schools. This gross figure will be reduced by mandatory deductions for the national health insurance and pension systems.
The cost of living in Japan varies by location. Residing in a major metropolitan center like Tokyo or Osaka is more expensive than living in a smaller city or rural area. Some employers, particularly in the Eikaiwa sector, may offer housing assistance or subsidized apartments, which can affect an individual’s disposable income. It is practical to review potential expenses against the offered salary.