Can I get a work visa to teach English in Japan?
Obtaining a work visa to teach English in Japan is attainable if you meet certain criteria. The key requirements for a work visa include having a bachelor's degree and a TESOL certification, typically with at least 120 hours of completion. These qualifications are essential for most English teaching positions in Japan and are a prerequisite for the work visa application. For those without a degree, alternative visa options such as a working holiday visa, student visa, or spouse visa might be viable, depending on individual circumstances. Each of these alternatives offers a different pathway to teaching in Japan, with its own set of requirements and limitations.
Table of Contents
What are the requirements for teaching English in Japan?
Do I need a bachelors degree to teach English in Japan?
Do I need a TESOL certification to teach English in Japan?
Do I have to be a native English speaker to teach English in Japan?
How do I get a visa to teach English in Japan?
What are the requirements for teaching English in Japan?
To teach English in Japan, there are several key requirements, although flexibility exists depending on qualifications and experience. The fundamental criteria typically include:
- Holding a bachelor's degree, which is a standard requirement for teaching positions.
- Possessing a TESOL certificate, demonstrating training in teaching English.
- Having native-level English proficiency, ensuring effective communication and teaching.
- Being eligible for a work visa in Japan, which is a legal requirement for employment.
- Maintaining a clean criminal record, a common stipulation for international teachers.
- Being within the age range of 20 to 60, although this can vary depending on the institution.
- Previous teaching experience, which can be advantageous but is not always mandatory.
- Passing a health and drug test, ensuring fitness and compliance with local laws.
It is crucial to note that some schools and programs may have additional or specific requirements. As such, potential teachers are advised to thoroughly research and understand the specific requirements of the teaching position they are interested in.
Do I need a bachelors degree to teach English in Japan?
In Japan, while having a bachelor's degree is commonly viewed as a requirement for teaching English, it is not an absolute necessity in every case. Teachers possessing a degree are often given priority in job applications. However, opportunities still exist for those without a degree, particularly if they have teaching-related qualifications and relevant experience. For individuals lacking a degree, acquiring an advanced TESOL certification, such as a Diploma in TESOL, is highly recommended. This certification can significantly enhance your job prospects by demonstrating your commitment and competency in teaching English. Furthermore, having practical classroom experience can also bolster your profile. As such, even without a degree, with the right qualifications and experience, there are viable opportunities in the Japanese English teaching job market.
Do I need a TESOL certification to teach English in Japan?
A TESOL certification is not seen as an official requirement when applying to teach English in Japan, but it can make a difference to your chances of securing more sought after positions in the more popular locations. Completing a teacher training course will improve your options as it will provide you with the knowledge and skills necessary to walk into a classroom on day one with confidence in your own abilities as an ESL teacher. Potential employers will be well aware of the importance of this knowledge, both for you as a teacher and for the students in your future classrooms. Completing a relevant training course will also demonstrate to employers that you are serious about teaching and are not just there on a paid vacation.
Our 120-hour online TESOL certification course is a very popular choice with teachers heading to Japan.
We also have an in-class TESOL course that runs throughout the year in Tokyo.
Do I have to be a native English speaker to teach English in Japan?
Teaching English in Japan typically comes with an expectation of native-level English proficiency, particularly since many Japanese students already possess a high level of English language skills. Employers generally prefer teachers who can consistently use clear, precise, and grammatically correct English, both in speaking and writing. While native English speakers are often favored for these roles, it is not an absolute requirement. Non-native English speakers with exceptionally high language proficiency also have opportunities to teach English in Japan. In these cases, having advanced teaching qualifications and substantial teaching experience can greatly enhance your job prospects.
How do I get a visa to teach English in Japan?
To legally teach English in Japan, obtaining a work visa is a crucial step. There are several pathways to achieve this, with one being through the Japan Exchange and Teaching Program (JET), which assists with all necessary paperwork for eligible applicants. If you choose to find a teaching position independently, the process involves applying for a work visa through the Japanese embassy in your home country. In such cases, your employer in Japan often provides substantial assistance during the application process.
Essential documents typically required for a work visa include a valid passport, a bachelor's degree or higher, a teaching certification like TESOL, a clean criminal record, health insurance, an employment contract with a Japanese institution, proof of financial stability, a resume with a photo, and a sponsorship letter from your Japanese employer. It is important to note that required documentation can vary based on nationality, so contacting the Japanese embassy for specific guidelines is advisable.
For information on salaries take a look at our post: How much can I earn teaching English in Japan?
