Moving to Japan as a foreign worker comes with its own set of questions about living, working, and adapting to life in a new country. To help you feel more prepared, we’ve compiled answers to some of the most frequently asked questions by foreign workers in Japan.
Contents:
1. What Visa Do I Need to Work in Japan?
2. How Do I Find a Place to Live?
3. What Are the Work Hours Like in Japan?
4. How Do I Get Around in Japan?
5. How Do I Manage Finances in Japan?
6. What Are the Healthcare Options?
7. How Do I Navigate the Language Barrier?
8. What Cultural Norms Should I Know?
9. How Do I Send Money Home?
10. What Should I Do in Emergencies?
How MobalPay Can Help
Conclusion
1. What Visa Do I Need to Work in Japan?
To work in Japan legally, you’ll need an appropriate work visa based on your job type.
Common Work Visas:
Engineer / Specialist in Humanities / International Services Visa.
Instructor Visa (for teaching positions).
Skilled Labor Visa (for specialized trades).
How to Apply:
Obtain a Certificate of Eligibility (CoE) from your employer.
Apply for the visa at your nearest Japanese embassy or consulate.
Important Tip:
Ensure your visa matches your job description, as working outside your visa’s scope is illegal.
2. How Do I Find a Place to Live?
Housing in Japan can be challenging for foreigners due to language barriers and specific rental requirements.
Options:
Sharehouses: Affordable and foreigner-friendly (e.g., Oakhouse).
Apartments: Typically require guarantors, deposits, and key money.
Tips:
Use platforms like GaijinPot Housing or Suumo.
Consider furnished options to save on setup costs.
3. What Are the Work Hours Like in Japan?
Japanese work culture is known for its long hours, but it depends on the industry and company.
Standard Work Hours:
40 hours per week (8 hours per day).
Overtime Culture:
Overtime is common in some industries but increasingly regulated.
Work-Life Balance:
Look for companies that emphasize work-life balance or are part of the “Premium Friday” initiative.
4. How Do I Get Around in Japan?
Japan’s public transportation is efficient and reliable.
Transportation Options:
Trains and Subways: Use IC cards like Suica or Pasmo for convenience.
Buses:
Ideal for local routes not covered by trains.
Bicycles: Popular for short distances.
Tips:
Get a commuter pass if you travel the same route daily.
Plan routes with apps like Google Maps or Japan Travel by Navitime.
5. How Do I Manage Finances in Japan?
Managing your finances effectively is key to settling in.
Open a Bank Account:
Popular options for foreigners include Japan Post Bank, Shinsei Bank, and MUFG.
Use a Prepaid Payment Card:
MobalPay’s prepaid Mastercard is a convenient option for daily expenses and budgeting.
Budget Wisely:
Account for rent, utilities, groceries, and transportation costs.
6. What Are the Healthcare Options?
Japan has a universal healthcare system that is accessible and affordable.
National Health Insurance (NHI):
For residents not covered by employer-sponsored insurance.
Employee Health Insurance (EHI):
Provided by employers for full-time workers.
Tips:
Enroll within two weeks of moving to Japan.
Carry your insurance card for medical visits to receive discounts.
7. How Do I Navigate the Language Barrier?
While English is widely taught in Japan, knowing some Japanese can make daily life easier.
Learn Basic Phrases:
Common greetings and questions will go a long way.
Use Translation Apps:
Apps like Google Translate and DeepL are helpful for real-time translation.
Take Language Classes:
Many local community centers offer affordable Japanese classes.
8. What Cultural Norms Should I Know?
Understanding Japanese culture can help you integrate more smoothly:
Greetings:
Bowing is a key part of social interactions.
Punctuality:
Being on time is highly valued.
Trash Disposal:
Follow local rules for separating and disposing of garbage.
9. How Do I Send Money Home?
Sending money to your home country is a common need for foreign workers.
Options:
Use trusted services like Wise, Western Union, or PayPal.
Tips:
Compare exchange rates and fees.
Avoid transferring large amounts at once to minimize fees.
10. What Should I Do in Emergencies?
Knowing how to handle emergencies can give you peace of mind:
Emergency Numbers:
Police: 110
Ambulance/Fire: 119
Carry Essential Documents:
Always have your residence card and health insurance card.
Emergency Apps:
Install apps like Safety Tips for earthquake alerts and emergency information.
How MobalPay Can Help
MobalPay simplifies many aspects of life in Japan for foreign workers:
Secure Payments:
Use MobalPay for cashless transactions across Japan.
Expense Tracking:
Monitor your spending to stay on budget.
Convenient Reloads:
Easily top up your card for daily expenses.
Conclusion
Moving to Japan as a foreign worker comes with many questions, but being prepared can make the transition smoother. By understanding the essentials—from visas and housing to finances and cultural norms—you can thrive in your new environment. Let MobalPay simplify your financial journey so you can focus on making the most of your experience in Japan.
Ready to take control of your finances in Japan? Apply for MobalPay today and enjoy hassle-free transactions!