Job Discussion Forums

johnnybar · Joined: 31 Mar 2009 Posts: 1 Location: US

Hi everyone,
I have a specific question and would be very grateful for any kind of help I get:
I am a 24 year old US citizen, interested in teaching in Japan for a period of at least 6 months, starting around July-August '09.
Although I don't have a Bachelor's degree am planning to take a TOEFL course in Thailand around June and get the teaching certificate around July.
I realize that as a US citizen I can't get the holiday working visa and getting a Visa is difficult without
direct sponsorship/marriage/Bachelor's degree.
However, am extremely motivated and excited about the idea of working in Japan,
and Have been teaching myself Japanese for the last 6 months
(not fluent yet- need Japan for that).

Any Ideas/ Tips/ Thoughts will be greatly appreciated.
thanks,
Jonathan

Chancellor · Posted: Wed Apr 01, 2009 4:54 pm Post subject: Re: Working in Japan

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

No degree means you have to prove at least 3 years of teaching experience, or you are not eligible for a work visa.

If you can't muster either of these, then you have very few options:
student visa or cultural activities visa, coupled with special permission to work (part-time only)

Don't even consider working for less than a year. Vast majority of contracts are for 12 months.

And, yes, come to the Japan threads. Read the FAQ stickies at the top of that page before posting.