Job Search in Japan

How to Find a Software Developer Job in Japan?

September 23, 2024 by TechjobsinJapan Team

Japan's tech industry continues to grow, creating exciting opportunities for software developers and tech professionals. However, finding a job here involves more than just technical skills; it requires a solid understanding of the unique cultural aspects and workplace expectations. Whether you’re looking to join a global brand, a local startup, or a larger organization, each path has its own challenges and may require a different approach. In this article, we’ll share practical information to help you navigate the job market and land the right software developer role at the right company hiring in Japan.

Do I Need to Speak Japanese? Are my Japanese Communication Skills More Important Than my Technical Skills?

In the competitive landscape of IT roles in Japan, technical proficiency often takes precedence as the primary criterion for employment. A recent survey conducted by TokyoDev reveals that nearly half of foreign developers working in Japan do not require Japanese language skills in their day-to-day responsibilities.

However, while fluency in Japanese is seldom a strict requirement for entry into a company, it can be a crucial factor for career advancement. Lacking Japanese language skills may limit your access to management positions and promotions, as employers often doubt a candidate's ability to lead local teams effectively. This applies equally to Japanese professionals; those who do not possess bilingual capabilities may find themselves at a disadvantage when engaging with both domestic and international stakeholders.

Investing time in both technical and Japanese language skills is advisable for anyone aiming to thrive in Japan's corporate environment. Mastering the language not only enhances your prospects for career progression but also facilitates deeper integration within Japanese companies. Many employers actively seek bilingual candidates, particularly for roles that involve internal communications or client interactions.

Even if Japanese is not essential for your technical duties, demonstrating a willingness to learn the language signals a long-term commitment to your career in Japan. Fortunately, numerous companies offer language training programs to support their foreign employees in this endeavor.

Salary and Compensations to be Expected for Software Developers in Japan

Salaries for software developers in Japan show significant variation, influenced by factors such as experience level, geographic location, and the type of company (startups, large global brands or domestic Japanese organizations...). In Japan, entry-level developers can typically expect annual earnings ranging from „4.5 million to „7 million. For mid-level professionals, salaries tend to rise to between „7 million and „10 million per year, while those with advanced expertise in high-demand areas may command annual compensation of „10 million to „15 million.

Senior professionals, especially those in leadership positions within global firms or in specialized fields—such as data science, compliance, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity—can see salaries exceeding „15 million. This reflects the growing demand for highly skilled talent in these cutting-edge industries. However, it’s important to note that while these salaries are competitive by Japanese standards, they generally fall short of those in global tech hubs like Silicon Valley, where higher salaries often come with a significantly higher cost of living.

Tokyo offers some of the most lucrative salaries in Japan, but this comes with the trade-off of higher living expenses. Job seekers are advised to carefully consider both salary and cost of living when evaluating job opportunities, as other regions in Japan may offer a more balanced financial equation despite lower pay.

How Difficult Is It to Get a Work Visa as a Developer in Japan?

Securing a work visa as a software developer in Japan is relatively straightforward for those who meet the basic requirements. The key qualifications for obtaining an engineering visa include:

  • A university degree in a relevant field, such as IT or computer science.
  • Substantial professional experience, typically requiring at least 10 years in the tech sector.
  • A formal job offer from a Japanese employer willing to act as your visa sponsor.

For those who may struggle to meet these criteria or secure a job offer from abroad, alternative pathways exist. Entering Japan on a student visa or working in roles such as English teaching or agency recruiting can provide a foothold. Once in the country, you will have more time and opportunities to network and find suitable tech positions.

By leveraging these options, aspiring developers can more easily navigate Japan's immigration system and enter one of the world's most exciting tech markets.

Visa Options for IT Professionals in Japan

The most common visa for foreign IT and tech professionals, including software developers, is the Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services Visa. This visa allows foreigners to work in various sectors, including tech, and is typically granted for 1, 3, or 5 years depending on factors like the employer’s status and the applicant's qualifications. This visa category is versatile, covering a range of professional roles beyond just engineering.

Working Visa vs. Permanent Residency

A working visa provides temporary residency in Japan for the duration of your employment contract, up to 5 years. Renewal is generally a smooth process if all documentation is in order and there are no legal issues.

In contrast, Permanent Residency offers long-term stability. After living in Japan for at least 10 years, you may apply for permanent residency, which allows you to live and work in Japan indefinitely. Benefits of permanent residency include:

  • No need for visa renewals.
  • Job flexibility, allowing you to change jobs or start a business without additional visa requirements.
  • Easier access to loans and credit from Japanese banks, essential for major purchases like homes or cars.

Other Types of Engineering Visas

  • HSP (Highly Skilled Professional) Visa: Designed for engineers and other professionals with advanced qualifications, the HSP visa offers additional benefits, including faster paths to permanent residency.
  • Intra-Company Transfer Visa: This visa is for foreign employees of multinational companies who are transferred to Japan for a set period. It is typically for temporary assignments and is not discussed in detail here.

The duration of any visa is ultimately determined by Japanese immigration authorities based on the employer's company size, stability, and history of sponsoring foreign workers. Some workers may receive a 5-year visa, while others may need to renew annually.

Can You Secure a Visa and Job Offer from Overseas?

Yes, it’s possible to secure both a job and a visa from overseas, though it’s often easier if you are already in Japan. Employers prefer candidates familiar with Japanese culture and living conditions, as there is less risk of relocation difficulties.

If you're abroad, consider applying for a working holiday visa (if eligible) or pursuing a study program in Japan. Alternatively, working as an English teacher or in other temporary positions can serve as a bridge to entering the tech industry once you're in Japan.

Remote Work vs. Living in the City of Your Employer

Remote work has become increasingly common in Japan since the pandemic, although many companies still prefer their employees to live near the office for periodic in-person meetings. For engineers, living in a tech hub like Tokyo provides greater access to networking opportunities, industry events, and career growth, making it an attractive option for those looking to expand their professional connections. However, if your company allows fully remote work, you have the flexibility to live anywhere in Japan, which can significantly lower your cost of living compared to major cities like Tokyo, while still maintaining a strong career in the tech sector.

Overtime for IT Engineers / Web Developers in Japan

Overtime is an important factor to consider for tech workers in Japan, as work hours can vary significantly depending on the type of company. Historically, Japanese work culture has been associated with long hours, but the landscape is changing, particularly in the tech sector. Startups and large global brands tend to promote a healthier work-life balance, often offering flexible hours and minimal overtime. These companies are more likely to prioritize innovation and efficiency, allowing employees to maintain personal time.

On the other hand, Japanese domestic companies may still adhere to more traditional practices, where longer hours and frequent overtime are more common. However, even within domestic companies, there is a growing awareness of the need to improve work-life balance, especially in the tech industry.

When interviewing, it’s crucial to ask about overtime expectations to understand the company’s work culture and how it aligns with your personal preferences.

Should You Submit an English or Japanese Resume?

When applying for jobs in Japan, the language of your resume can vary depending on the company type and the specific job posting:

  • Startups: Many startups, especially in the tech sector, are more flexible and internationally minded. Submitting an English resume is often sufficient if the job posting is in English, as startups tend to value efficiency, innovation and agility over traditional norms. However, submitting a Japanese version can be a strong signal of your commitment to understanding the local market and culture, which may set you apart from other candidates.
  • Large Global Brands: These companies often operate in both English and Japanese, especially if they have a diverse or international workforce. While an English resume is typically accepted for roles that require English proficiency, providing both an English and a Japanese resume can enhance your application, showing that you’re prepared to work across cultures and languages. This is particularly true for roles involving collaboration with local teams.
  • Japanese Domestic Brands: For traditional Japanese companies, a Japanese resume (rirekisho) is almost always required, even for positions where English proficiency is essential. Many domestic companies place a high value on understanding Japanese business culture and communication norms, so providing a resume in Japanese demonstrates your cultural adaptability and seriousness about working in Japan.

Are Cover Letters Necessary?

Cover letters aren’t always a strict requirement in Japan, but they can still be valuable, especially when applying to global large companies. A well-written cover letter allows you to explain your motivation for applying, emphasize how your skills align with the company’s goals, and clarify any points that may not be obvious from your resume. For Japanese domestic brands, while cover letters may not be as critical, they can still help you stand out by showcasing your enthusiasm and understanding of the company’s values.

Interview Process and Timeline

The interview process for software developers in Japan can vary widely depending on the type and size of the company. Japanese firms, particularly large corporations, often have a structured, multi-step process that may involve several rounds of interviews. The process usually takes some time as it typically includes technical assessments to evaluate your skills, a cultural fit interview to ensure you align with the company's values, and often a coding test. Larger, more traditional companies may have longer timelines as well. Since there are often many stakeholders involved, there are many interviews so patience is key when dealing with these organizations.

In contrast, smaller international companies operating in Japan, especially startups, tend to have a more streamlined approach. These companies often prioritize speed, agility and flexibility, which can result in faster hiring processes. However, don’t mistake speed for simplicity – they still place a high value on technical competency and cultural fit, but they may compress the steps into fewer interviews or assessments.

Resources for Finding IT Jobs in Japan

There are several specialized platforms and networking opportunities to help you find a developer job in Japan:

  1. Specialized Job Sites:
  • TechJobsInJapan.com: A bilingual platform offering a wide range of tech jobs for both English and Japanese speakers, catering specifically to international talent in Japan’s tech industry.
  • JapanDev: A curated job board focused on roles at international tech companies in Japan, ideal for developers looking for startup or global opportunities.
  • Tokyo Dev: Tailored to the international developer community in Tokyo, this platform provides job listings, resources, and success stories for foreign engineers looking to work in Japan.

2. Tokyo Tech Meetups:

Joining tech meetups is an excellent way to network, learn, and stay updated on the latest industry trends. Here are some popular tech meetups in Tokyo:

3. Recruiting Agencies:

Specialized tech recruiters can help introduce you to companies that match your skills and interests. It’s wise to work with multiple agencies to broaden your opportunities, but ensure the recruiter’s goals align with yours. Just to name a few, some well-known tech-focused recruitment agencies in Japan include:

You access to the largest agency directory in Japan at:

âžĄïž https://www.hireplanner.com/en/agency_directory

By leveraging these platforms, meetups, and agencies, you'll have a solid foundation to find your ideal developer job in Japan.

Final Tips for Landing a Job in Japan

  1. Networking: Building relationships within the tech community can open doors to new career or business opportunities. Attend local meetups such as Tokyo Tech Meetup or Hacker News Tokyo, and engage with online communities to expand your network. Personal connections can often be the key to landing a job, especially in Japan where professional relationships and referrals are highly valued.
  2. Freelancing/Contracting: If you're having difficulty securing a full-time position right away, consider freelance or contract work. This approach not only allows you to get your foot in the door, demonstrate your technical skills but also helps you build your reputation and expand your network within the industry. Many developers have successfully transitioned from freelance roles to permanent positions as they prove their value to employers.
  3. Patience and Persistence: The job market in Japan can sometimes move slowly, especially with larger companies, so patience is crucial. Radio silence from your potential employer doesn't always mean bad news. Often, the process just takes time. Continue to do your research, improve your skills, and stay active in the tech community. There are abundant opportunities for skilled engineers, and with persistence, you'll find the right fit.

At TechJobsinJapan.com, we’re committed to supporting your journey, providing a platform specifically designed for tech professionals looking to start or advance their careers in Japan. Whether you’re just beginning your search or are ready to make your next move, we’re here to help. Good luck on your job search!