Hello! This is Willow Inc., here to support your new life in Japan.
It’s been about a month since you arrived in Japan. After the initial whirlwind of city office procedures, opening a bank account, and discovering your local supermarket, you’re likely starting to settle into the rhythm of daily life.
And “now” is the perfect time to take on a new challenge. That challenge is finding an “Arubaito” (アルバイト) – a part-time job!
A part-time job is the best opportunity to not only earn an income, but also to improve your Japanese skills, make new friends, and understand Japanese society on a deeper level. This article will explain everything you need to know to succeed in your first “baito” search, step by step.
Before You Start: Absolutely Check the Rules for Your “Work Permit”!
If you are an international student or on certain types of work visas, you must follow the legal rules to have a part-time job. This is extremely important, so please be sure to confirm the following.
- Do you have “Permission to Engage in Activity Other Than That Permitted” (資格外活動許可)?
If you applied for it when you received your Residence Card at airport immigration, you should have a stamp on the back of your card that says “許可” (Permitted). If you don’t have this permission yet, you must apply for it at the Immigration Services Agency. - Are you following the “28-hour-per-week” rule?
As a general rule, international students are only allowed to work a total of 28 hours per week. (This is extended to 40 hours per week during long school holidays like summer break). If you have multiple part-time jobs, you must calculate the total working hours from all of them combined.
Breaking these rules can result in penalties, so please be sure to follow them.
How to Search? Finding a Part-Time Job in Japan
- Job Websites and Apps: There are many websites and apps that list jobs that welcome foreign applicants. Starting your search here is the most common method.
- Posters in Shop Windows: You’ll often see “スタッフ募集” (Staff Wanted) posters in the windows of local convenience stores and restaurants. This is a great way to find a job close to your community.
- Referrals from Friends or School: This is one of the most reliable methods. Try talking to friends who are already working or consult your university’s career center.
- Consult with Willow: At Willow, we specialize not only in real estate but also in career support for foreign nationals. We can introduce you to safe and welcoming workplaces that match your Japanese level and preferences.
Application Prep: Tips for Your “Rirekisho” and “Mensetsu”
Once you’ve found a place you want to work, it’s time to prepare your application.
① The Japanese Resume (履歴書 – Rirekisho)
For most part-time job applications in Japan, a specific resume format called a “Rirekisho” is required. You can buy a Rirekisho form at any convenience store or 100-yen shop. It is common to fill it out neatly by hand with a passport-style photo attached.
If you’re not sure what to write, the staff at Willow can support you for free, so please feel free to ask.
② The Interview (面接 – Mensetsu)
You won’t be asked difficult questions in a part-time job interview. The most important things are to smile and greet the interviewer clearly. Be prepared to answer questions like, “Why do you want to work here?” and “How many days and hours can you work per week?”
Recommended for Beginners! Examples of Foreigner-Friendly Part-Time Jobs
- Convenience Store (Konbini): You’ll have a lot to learn, from customer service to stocking shelves, but it’s a perfect opportunity to learn Japanese customer service manners and language.
- Restaurant Kitchen Staff: Since the main tasks are assisting with cooking and washing dishes, it’s an easy job to start even if you don’t have high-level Japanese skills.
- Hotel Cleaning / Bed-Making: These jobs often allow you to work quietly at your own pace.
- Language Tutor (e.g., private tutor): A popular and relatively high-paying job where you can make use of your native language.
Conclusion: A Part-Time Job is a New Door to Expand Your World in Japan
One month in Japan. Now that you’ve built the foundation for your life here, why not open the new door of a part-time job to make your story in Japan even richer?
We know it can be nerve-wracking to try something for the first time, but you don’t have to worry. At Willow, we’re here to fully support not only your housing search but also your desire to work. From checking your resume to practicing for interviews and introducing you to jobs, you can always count on us.
We are sincerely cheering for your new step forward.
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