Do and Don’t

• Do:some text
  • Bow when greeting people as a sign of respect.
  • Bring small gifts when visiting someone’s home.
  • Remove shoes before entering homes or certain traditional places, such as temples and tatami rooms.
• Don’t:some text
  • Don’t talk loudly on public transport.
  • Don’t tip in restaurants; it can be seen as rude.
  • Don’t point at people or objects; it’s considered impolite.

Setting Up a Local Bank Account

To open a bank account in Japan, you typically need a residence card, a personal seal (inkan or hanko), and proof of address. Some banks may also require a work visa or long-term residency status. Major banks include MUFG, SMBC, and Japan Post Bank.

Getting Around

Public transportation in Japan is top-notch, with clean and punctual trains, subways, and buses. In major cities, apps like Suica and Pasmo cards make travel easy. Japan recognizes international driving permits, and buying a car is straightforward, though not necessary for city dwellers. Scooters are also popular for shorter commutes.

Expat Community

Japan has a growing expat community, particularly in Tokyo, Yokohama, and Osaka. There are numerous social clubs, language exchange meetups, and international schools catering to expatriates and their families.

Local Medical System

Japan boasts a highly advanced healthcare system. Expats need to register for the national health insurance (NHI), which covers 70% of medical costs. Private health insurance is also available. Clinics and hospitals are well-equipped, but English-speaking medical staff may be limited outside urban centers.

Visas Eligibility

• Temporary Residency:

Japan offers a variety of temporary visas, including tourist, student, and work visas. For short stays (up to 90 days), a tourist visa suffices, and citizens of many countries enjoy visa-free entry for this duration.

• Permanent Residency:

To apply for permanent residency, you generally need to have lived in Japan for 10 years. There are exceptions for highly skilled professionals and spouses of Japanese citizens or permanent residents.

• Digital Nomad Visa:

Currently, Japan does not have a specific digital nomad visa, so many nomads use the tourist visa for short-term stays or apply for longer-term work or business visas.

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Work Culture in Japan

Work Ethic:

Japan is known for its strong work ethic and emphasis on dedication, punctuality, and hierarchy. Employees are often expected to work long hours, and there's a strong culture around commitment to the company. “Lifetime employment” was historically a popular concept in Japan, although it's less common now.

Office Etiquette:

There is a deep respect for hierarchy in the workplace. Titles are important, and addressing colleagues correctly (e.g., adding “-san” to a person’s last name) is key. Politeness is crucial, and maintaining a professional demeanor in meetings is important. Bowing is common during greetings, apologies, and showing appreciation.

Work-Life Balance:

In recent years, there has been a growing conversation around work-life balance, with some companies experimenting with reduced working hours or flexible working arrangements. However, work-life balance can still be a challenge, especially in more traditional industries.

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Job Opportunities for Expats

• Teaching English: Teaching English is one of the most common jobs for foreigners in Japan. English teachers are in demand across the country, particularly in private language schools (eikaiwa), public schools, and through the JET Program.
• IT and Engineering: Japan’s tech industry is strong, and there is demand for foreign IT specialists, software developers, and engineers. With the global talent shortage in these fields, foreign professionals with relevant skills are welcomed.
• Finance and Business: Tokyo is a major financial hub, offering opportunities in banking, finance, and international business. Many multinational companies have offices in Japan, particularly in the major cities.
• Entertainment and Hospitality: Japan’s tourism and hospitality sector, particularly in cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, sometimes hire foreigners for positions like tour guides, hotel staff, and even in the entertainment industry (e.g., modeling or acting).

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Freelancing and Entrepreneurship

• Freelancing:

While freelancing is less common than traditional employment, it is possible to work as a freelancer in Japan. Many expats in Japan freelance as writers, designers, or consultants. However, securing a visa based on freelance work can be challenging, and you may need to apply for a business manager visa if you plan to operate a business.

• Starting a Business:

Japan encourages entrepreneurship, and foreigners can start businesses here, particularly in sectors like tech, tourism, and services. However, you must apply for a Business Manager Visa and prove that you have the necessary funds (usually ¥5 million or more) to establish and operate the business. Additionally, Japan’s complex bureaucracy can be a hurdle, so it's important to be well-prepared and possibly hire a local consultant.

Tax Considerations

• Income Tax:

Foreigners working in Japan are subject to income tax based on their residency status. For those who live in Japan for more than one year, worldwide income is taxed. Income tax rates are progressive, ranging from 5% to 45%.

• Social Security:

Employees in Japan are required to contribute to the country's social insurance system, which covers pensions, healthcare, unemployment insurance, and work-related injury insurance. Foreigners can claim their pension contributions when they leave Japan through a lump-sum withdrawal, but this may depend on agreements between Japan and their home country.

Government Website Links

• Ministry of Foreign Affairs:
• https://www.mofa.go.jp
• Immigration Office (Immigration Services Agency of Japan):
• https://www.isa.go.jp

Other Useful Contact Numbers:

• 24/7 Emergency Services:some text
  • Police: 110
  • Fire and Ambulance: 119
• Health Line:some text
  • Tokyo Metropolitan Health and Medical Information Center: 03-5285-8181
  • Website: https://www.himawari.metsro.tokyo.jp
• Suicide Hotlines:some text
  • TELL Lifeline: 03-5774-0992
  • Japan Suicide Prevention Hotline: 0570-783-556
  • Website: https://www.sp-tokyo.org
• Drug Abuse Support:some text
  • Japan Drug Counseling Center: 0120-456-556
  • Website: http://www.dapc.or.jp
• Narcotics Anonymous:some text
  • Website: https://www.najapan.org
• Poison Line:some text
  • Japan Poison Information Center: 072-727-2499
  • Website: http://www.j-poison-ic.or.jp