Can a foreigner become an English teacher in Japan?
Andrew Mclaughlin
Published Apr 26, 2026
A working visa is generally required to teach English in Japan. Many language schools will sponsor your visa application. You will usually need a bachelor’s degree to be granted a working visa. Some countries also have arrangements whereby you can obtain a working holiday visa, which allows you to teach part-time.
Can you make a living teaching English in Japan?
English teachers in Japan can expect to make a base salary of ¥250,000 per month. (106 yen is currently roughly $1; xe.com offers a good online currency converter). Depending on what type of housing you choose, your monthly housing can range from ¥50,000–¥80,000 including utilities.
Can a foreigner become a teacher in Japan?
Although there is no English teacher license for foreigners, you can obtain a “special license” (特別免許状 tokubetsu menkyojyou) through a prefectural board of education. You possess teaching qualifications obtained in a foreign country. You possess a master’s or doctor’s degree.
Can you teach English in Japan with tattoos?
Expectations for dress and appearance will vary by region and culture. If you’re planning to teach English in Japan with tatoos, for example, you will find schools that prohibit teachers from having visible tattoos largely due to the cultural association tattoos have with the Yakuza (Japanese Mafia).
Is teaching English in Japan worth it?
Teaching English in Japan is a great way to spend a few years, pay off college debt, learn a LOT of Japanese, meet people, and perhaps travel a bit…. but getting your Bachelor’s and your Master’s is essential to reputable employment. As you are a freshman, you have an even better opportunity ~ STUDY in Japan first.
What jobs can foreigners get in Japan?
The 8 Most Popular Jobs for Foreigners in Japan
- English teacher. Teaching English at cram schools is the most common job for foreign workers.
- IT professional.
- Translator/interpreter.
- Sales staff.
- Military personnel.
- Banker.
- Service staff.
- Engineer.
What do you wear to teach English in Japan?
Dress Code
- Top: A collared shirt is best. Sometimes polo shirts are okay, but usually you’ll be wearing a button down shirt.
- Bottom: Slacks or khakis are standard.
- Other: Neckties and belts are standard. Japanese men’s neckties (and other clothing items) tend to be grays, blues, and dark blues.
Can I live in Japan if I have tattoos?
However, you don’t have to worry about your tattoo greatly affecting your quality of life in Japan. Even if your tattoo is visible, you likely won’t run into too many issues in your daily life, and often, Japanese people aren’t surprised at all by the sight of a foreigner with a tattoo.
How long can you teach English in Japan?
If you’re wondering how long you can teach in Japan, English teaching contracts typically last from six months to a year.
Are teachers paid well in Japan?
If you’re an experienced, licensed educator, then you can expect to earn anywhere from 300,000 to 650,000 Yen ($2,700 – 5,900 USD) teaching at an international school in Japan.
Can you teach English in Japan without a degree?
If you want to teach English in Japan and you don’t have a degree then, unfortunately, your options are pretty limited. A degree – in any discipline – is required to get a work visa to TEFL in Japan, so without one you aren’t eligible. A student visa. Or a Japanese passport.
What shoes do Japanese teachers wear?
Shoes – For men, conservative slip-on or lace-up shoes in black, brown or grey are acceptable. For women, many schools will not allow open-toed shoes or sandals. Some will also expect you to wear hose with your shoes, even in the heat of the summer.
Why do Japanese hate tattoos?
The current stigma around tattoos is largely due to the association of ink with Japanese organised crime syndicates, or Yakuza. In the same era, sex workers – known as “Yuujyo” – would also get tattoos to show romantic devotion to their regular customers.