Foreign nationals who want to work in Japan do not necessarily have to apply directly to Japanese companies from overseas. Another option is to come to Japan as an international student, pursue an education, and use that experience as a stepping stone toward future employment.

For young people who are not yet familiar with the Japanese language or society, studying in Japan can be one way to establish a foundation for life in Japan and expand their future employment opportunities.

1. Main Requirements and Screening Points for Studying in Japan

The Educational Institution

Applicants must study at an educational institution eligible for the “Student” status of residence, such as a Japanese university, vocational school, or Japanese language school. The required procedures and supporting documents vary depending on the type of institution.

Purpose of Study and Genuine Intention to Study

Applicants are expected to actually engage in educational activities, rather than simply enroll in a school. Their reasons for pursuing further education and the circumstances surrounding their application may be examined in light of their application details and previous educational history.

Ability to Pay Tuition and Living Expenses

Applicants or their financial sponsors must be able to cover tuition fees and living expenses in Japan. Depending on the application, supporting documents or explanations may be required not only regarding the available bank balance, but also the source of the funds and the relationship between the applicant and the financial sponsor.

Japanese Language Ability and Educational Background

For applicants attending Japanese language schools in particular, their Japanese language learning history and proficiency may be important considerations. The specific documents required vary depending on the type of school, the applicant’s circumstances, and the applicable institutional requirements.

Previous Immigration History and Consistency of the Application

If an applicant has previously studied in Japan, or if there are aspects of their educational or employment history or financial arrangements that require clarification, these circumstances may be examined during the screening process. However, having a previous immigration history does not, by itself, mean that an application will be refused.

2. Main Pathways from Studying in Japan to Employment

The options available after studying in Japan depend on the type of educational institution, the applicant’s educational and employment background, and the kind of work they wish to pursue. The following are two common pathways to consider.

Route A: Employment After University or Vocational School

One pathway is to study at a Japanese university or an eligible vocational school and then seek employment with a Japanese company after graduation.

If the relevant requirements are met, including those concerning the relationship between the applicant’s studies and the intended job, they may qualify for a work-related status of residence such as “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services.”

Alternatively, graduates who meet the requirements for employment in a designated industry may also pursue employment under the “Specified Skilled Worker” status of residence.

Route B: Employment After Japanese Language School

Another pathway is to attend a Japanese language school, improve Japanese language skills, become familiar with life in Japan, and explore future educational and employment opportunities.

Japanese language schools provide opportunities to develop language proficiency, deepen understanding of Japanese society, and build connections that may help students identify further study or employment options.

After completing a Japanese language program, students may proceed to a university or vocational school, or seek employment under the “Specified Skilled Worker” system if they meet the applicable requirements.

However, graduating from a Japanese language school alone does not satisfy the educational requirements for the “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” status of residence. On the other hand, applicants who already hold a university degree from their home country or have qualifying work experience may still be eligible for this status, depending on their individual circumstances and the applicable requirements.

3. Why Studying in Japan Can Be a Pathway to Employment

For people seeking employment with a Japanese company directly from overseas, finding suitable job openings and connecting with employers willing to hire them can be challenging, in addition to meeting the necessary language and professional requirements.

By coming to Japan as an international student, applicants can improve their Japanese while learning how job hunting works in Japan. Depending on the institution, they may also receive career guidance and employment support. Their experience of living in Japan can further help them identify suitable occupations and consider their future career paths.

Nevertheless, studying in Japan does not guarantee employment. Students must consider tuition fees and living expenses, and their ability to secure their desired jobs after graduation depends on factors such as their skills, preparation, and the employment market.

4. The Relationship Between Studying in Japan, Specified Skilled Worker, and Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services

Japan offers various statuses of residence for employment, depending on the nature of the work and the applicant’s background.

The “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” status of residence generally covers work that requires specialized knowledge, technical skills, or expertise in areas such as the humanities or international services. In contrast, the “Specified Skilled Worker” system is designed to accept foreign nationals who work in designated industrial fields experiencing serious labor shortages.

Choosing between these pathways is not simply a matter of one being more difficult than the other. The appropriate route depends on factors such as the applicant’s educational and employment background, Japanese language ability, desired occupation, required examinations, and the conditions set by the accepting employer.

Studying in Japan can be one way to prepare for these future options. Some students attend Japanese language school before proceeding to a university or vocational school, while others pursue employment after completing their university or vocational education.

The important point is not to treat studying in Japan as an end in itself, but to consider from an early stage what to study in Japan and what kind of work to pursue after graduation.

１　Types of Status of Residence in Japan

３　Main Residence and Immigration Applications in Japan

９　Submitting Immigration Applications on Behalf of Foreign Nationals in Japan