Job Discussion Forums

burngirl · Joined: 03 Dec 2006 Posts: 29

I am thinking of pursuing a job in Japan after I graduate. I will have a 4 year English degree, as well as a CELTA or something of the sort.

My boyfriend also wants to come. He, however, will only have a 2 year college degree and may get a TESOL certificate.

Lastly, a friend is also wondering about spending some time in Japan, making enough money to "almost" live on (she will save up some Canadian funds beforehand). She has NO degree whatsoever. So I believe the only option for her is a Working Holiday Visa.

We're all Canadian.

I am the only one who absolutely wants to teach english - the other two would be happy to land any job (with the WHV). We'd all learn as much Japanese as we can in the year before we go.

I've spent HOURS over the last 3 days browsing these forums, so I know it's hard to get work in Japan. I know I'll barely make enough to live on, nevermind the two lesser (or non) qualified characters above.

But my question is this: if they manage to get the WHV (through SWAP) and know a little Japanese, are there jobs to be had if one looks hard enough? Assuming the said person will take any paying opportunity that comes his/her way.

I mean, I figure if the Japan SWAP program even exists then there must be a chance for non-degree holding young people to become employed somehow... right? Any info on the casual job situation in Japan is appreciated!

canuck · Joined: 11 May 2003 Posts: 1921 Location: Japan

Forum search: WHV (working holiday visa)
That is the option for your boyfriend and your friend. My suggestion is to go to a big city and look for jobs or as a group try and find work beforehand on the internet.

Your friends, on the WHV, will most likely have to get a couple part-time jobs, but they should be fine.

cornishmuppet · Joined: 27 Mar 2004 Posts: 642 Location: Nagano, Japan

Its not hard to get a job in Japan. And you'll make plenty of money to get by on. Remember most of the people having a good time in Japan don't post, because they're doing just that: having a good time.

Its just difficult to get a particularly good job, and not so easy to save a decent amount. But it can be done. (Well, before the exchange rate bombed.)

WHVs won't get you a high teaching position. The only example I know of is Peppy Kids Club, where my mate was earning 215k on a WHV. He then went and got married (crazy fool), and when his visa changed his salary immediately went up to 250k.

On the other hand, a WHV does mean you can do what you like. I knew a guy who came over here on one, and he did four months up at a ski resort cooking and waiting tables, then four months working in a Ramen shop. He didn't earn much, but he had a ball, and he left with a serious cultural experience behind him. How many people end up working in a ramen shop?

Anyway, good luck.

Glenski · Joined: 15 Jan 2003 Posts: 12844 Location: Hokkaido, JAPAN

cornishmuppet is almost correct in saying that a WHV holder can do what one wants. There ARE limitations (bar work). Otherwise, I hear it's a good way to spend a year, if you can get the work you want.

burngirl,
I have vaguely heard of SWAP, but I don't think you have to go through that to get a working holiday visa. Just apply directly, I think. In any case, as mentioned, your friend and boyfriend are only eligible for the WHV (but there ARE requirements of age, having a ticket, writing an application itinerary, and proving certain funds in hand). Use the Japan Association of Working Holiday Makers to find work situations. Also look at www.jobsinjapan.com for general work ads. NOVA won't hire WHV holders unless they have a year (or two?) of college under their belts.