If youโre a student in Japan or a Filipino with residency, getting a part-time job is a great way to gain real-life experience. It helps you earn extra money, reach your financial goals, and apply what youโve learned in school to real-world situations. Plus, you get to experience Japanese culture and the local work environment.
The good news is, Japan has many part-time jobs available for foreigners, including Filipinos. Whether youโre into teaching, tech, food service, or writing, thereโs something out there for you. In this guide, weโll share the best part-time jobs, what you need to apply, and tips to help you get started.
Why Finding a Part-Time Job in Japan
Working in Japan gives international students and foreign residents, especially Filipinos, many great career opportunities. Japan is known for its high-quality education, unique culture, and safe, modern lifestyle. It also offers part-time jobs across different industries that are flexible and beginner-friendly. For Filipinos, Japanโs strong economy, stable job market, and growing demand for foreign workers make it an ideal destination to gain work experience while studying or living abroad.
Getting a part-time job in Japan doesnโt just help with extra income, because it also improves your Japanese language skills and helps you understand local customs and workplace culture. Talking with locals, following Japanese work etiquette, and adapting to their way of doing things can help you grow both professionally and personally. Over time, this experience adds great value to your resume, which will hold a great impression on international employers.
General Requirements for Doing Part-Time Jobs in Japan as Filipinos
Before applying, make sure youโre allowed to work part-time in Japan by understanding some specific requirements that will determine your eligibility to work. These rules help match you with suitable jobs like on-campus roles, off-campus work in restaurants or shops, or online jobs that wonโt affect your studies.
With the right preparation, Japan can be a great place to grow your career. Hereโs what you need to get started:
- Valid student visa and work permits to legally work part-time.
- A Japan resident card or passport as proof of your legal stay in Japan.
- Japanese bank account to receive your payments as which is mostly used by Japanese employers for transfers.
- My number for your identification in Japan.
- Proof of enrollment showing you’re enrolled in a recognized school or university in Japan.
Best Part-Time Jobs You Can Try in Japan as Foreigners
If you’re a foreign student in Japan, donโt worry about the competition for part-time jobs because your language skills can give you a competitive edge. However, itโs important to assess your abilities and identify the services or expertise you can contribute.
Here are the best part-time jobs in Japan for foreign students that you can try to gain experience, earn extra income, and enhance your career prospects:
Copywriting
In Japan, copywriting involves creating content for websites, ads, and social media, requiring careful concept development and research tailored to the target audience. There is a strong demand for English content as businesses aim to reach global markets, and copywriters play a key role in conveying both Asian culture and business values. Opportunities can be found on platforms like GaijinPot, Daijob, Bossjob, as well as freelance sites such as Upwork and Fiverr.
Salary Range: PHP 30,000 TO PHP 50,000
Online Tutoring
Businesses in Japan, along with other professionals, are looking to expand their reach in the global market. Tokyo ranks 92nd out of 116 countries for English proficiency in 2024. These statistics highlight the growing demand for English speakers in Japan, presenting an opportunity for both Japanese people to improve their English skills and for foreigners to fill the gap. Additionally, this role offers remote work opportunities and flexible work arrangements.
Salary Range: PHP 10,000 TO PHP 35,000
IT Support
While Japan has many full-time software engineers and web developers, especially with the rise of Web3 jobs, some companies also hire part-time workers to handle innovation and smaller tasks that require attention. Many students can apply for IT support roles, where they manage less complex systems. Additionally, Japanese employers value international students and foreigners, seeing them as an asset to stay globally competitive.
Salary Range: PHP 15,000 TO PHP 30,000
Restaurant Server
One of the most common part-time jobs in Japan for foreigners is in the food and beverage sector. From local restaurants with limited positions to larger establishments in cities like Osaka, Tokyo, Kyoto, and Fukuoka, there are plenty of opportunities available. This job typically requires a basic understanding of Japanese food preparation and service, along with the ability to confidently communicate with diners in Japanese.
Salary Range: PHP 15,000 TO PHP 40,000
How to Find a Part-Time Job in Japan as Foreigners?
To kickstart your career as an international student while working at a startup, it’s important to know the strategies that will help you land a job. Not only will this allow you to get familiar with Japanese culture, but it will also enable you to continuously upskill while in school.
- Use reliable job search sites: Look for platforms like Bossjob, which provide quality job postings, career advice, and strategies to enhance your resume and applications.
- Explore university recommendations: Universities like Tokyo University and Kyoto University often share industry insights and job openings. Participate in job fairs to connect with potential employers.
- Leverage your network: Reach out to the Filipino community for referrals and insider information about available jobs and in-demand skills.
- Target specific companies: Identify companies you’re interested in and tailor your resume to match their requirements.
FAQs of Doing Part-Time Jobs in Japan as Foreigners
1. Are there any tips for succeeding in part-time jobs in Japan?
The first step in establishing professionalism in Japan is to understand and study the countryโs business etiquette. Even if you have excellent English proficiency and the confidence to communicate, itโs essential to embrace Japanese cultural norms that emphasize respect, politeness, and mutual understanding.
Along with developing your character, itโs also important to stay informed about market trends and emerging technologies, such as Web3 jobs, that contribute to Japan’s role as a hub of innovation and digital transformation.
2. Does a part-time job experience do well to the future full-time job?
Having a part-time job in Japan is a dream come true for many Filipino students, as it offers the opportunity to start building a career while still in school. Companies, particularly in industries like IT, Web3, and Engineering, often track students and may offer full-time positions once they graduate. This provides long-term benefits, helping set the foundation for a successful future.
Bottom Line
To sum up, Japan is a fantastic place to work. With its strong influence on Filipino culture, especially in cuisine and traditions, international students can learn a great deal from their very first day on the job. However, itโs crucial to understand the legalities and regulations of working as a foreigner, even in a part-time role. Ensuring your eligibility should be a top priority, and everything else will fall into place.Are you excited to immerse yourself in Japanโs vibrant culture as a working student? Let Bossjob be your guide and connect you with hiring professionals today!
