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Part-Time Work

For international students, a part-time job is essential, both for covering living costs and for learning what it's like to work in Japan.
Working alongside Japanese colleagues gives you real experience and helps you learn about Japanese society. Use this experience to help you plan for your future!

Examples of Part-Time Jobs for International Students

Convenience store

Convenience store

Many international students work as convenience store staff. You can pick up practical everyday Japanese, and shifts are relatively flexible, which makes it a popular choice.

Restaurant

Restaurant

With staff in short supply, many international students work in restaurants. Restaurants popular with visitors from overseas especially value international student staff.

Language instructor

Language instructor

This work makes it easy to use your time efficiently and to balance a job with your studies. You can make the most of your first language while also practicing Japanese, and the hourly pay is relatively good.

Key Point:
Make sure you follow these conditions

If you take on a part-time job, you must follow the rules below. (*1)
Breaking them may result in penalties or deportation from Japan.

(*1) To do work not permitted under your status of residence, you must file an Application for Permission to Engage in Activity Other Than That Permitted with the Regional Immigration Services Bureau.

  1. Obtain "Permission to Engage in Activity Other Than That Permitted" at your nearest Regional Immigration Services Bureau.
  2. The work must not interfere with your studies.
  3. The purpose must be to help cover your tuition and living expenses while studying, not to build savings or send money home.
  4. The work must not be in the adult entertainment industry. *This is prohibited by law.
  5. The work must be within 28 hours per week (within 8 hours per day during long school holidays).
  6. The work must be carried out while you are enrolled at an educational institution.

Source: Study in Japan (the official study-in-Japan website)

How to find a part-time job

Find one around town (shop notices and posters)

Convenience stores, restaurants, and other businesses sometimes post "staff wanted" signs by the entrance. Keeping an eye out as you walk around town is one way to find work.

Search job sites

Make use of job search sites. Narrowing your search to listings marked 留学生歓迎 (ryugakusei kangei, "international students welcome") makes it easier to find a job that suits you.

Your university's career center

Your school's career services or student affairs office collects job listings that are safe and suitable for international students. Asking at a familiar desk on campus is a good first step.

Hello Work (Public Employment Security Office)

Hello Work is a free consultation service run by the national government. Some offices offer support in other languages, so it's a comfortable place to start even if it's your first time job hunting.