Workers Shortage in Japan: More Job Openings For Foreigners

What if I told you that Japan is struggling to find workers and is actively looking for foreigners to fill the gap? Sounds unbelievable, right? But it’s true.

According to a survey by Teikoku Databank Ltd., 53.4% of Japanese companies are facing a shortage of full-time workers since COVID-19. This labour crisis is hitting multiple industries, from IT and construction to factories and restaurants.

This is good news if you’re a job seeker or a worker trying to relocate to a country with better opportunities. Whether you have professional skills or need a stable job with good pay, Japan has options for you.

Skilled IT, healthcare, and engineering workers are in high demand, while industries like manufacturing, agriculture, and hospitality are eager to hire unskilled workers.

The best part is that you don’t need to be rich to relocate. Many of these jobs come with visa sponsorships, competitive salaries, and pathways to long-term employment.

Some companies are raising wages to attract foreign workers, while others plan to increase salaries in 2025 to keep their workforce stable.

So, if you’ve been considering working abroad but never thought of Japan, now is the time to take a serious look.

Why Japan needs foreign workers

For decades, Japan has been known for its strong economy and technological advancements, but behind the scenes, the country is struggling with a shrinking workforce. Japan has one of the oldest populations globally, with nearly 30% of its citizens aged 65 and above.

Meanwhile, birth rates are at an all-time low, meaning fewer young people are entering the workforce. As a result, companies across multiple industries, from IT and construction to healthcare and manufacturing, require fresh hands.

Here’s where things get interesting. Japan has always been known for its strict immigration policies, but now, the labour shortage forces it to recruit foreign workers actively like never before.

The government has introduced more flexible visa options, and companies offer higher wages and better incentives to attract talent. In fact, 68% of firms plan to increase salaries in 2025 to keep their workforce stable.

This shift means one thing: more opportunities for job seekers from Africa. The only question is, are you ready to take the leap?

High-demand skilled jobs in Japan

Japan isn’t just short on workers, it’s struggling to keep businesses running because there aren’t enough hands to do the job. Companies are desperate for skilled and reliable employees. So if you think moving to Japan is a great idea, now is the best time to take that leap.

1. IT and Engineering

Japan has always been known for its technology, which makes it a great place for skilled IT professionals such as software developers, system engineers, AI specialists, and cybersecurity experts. Companies are scrambling to hire qualified individuals, and many are even willing to sponsor work visas to bring them in.

If you’re a tech professional, this is a rare chance to land a well-paying job even if you can’t speak fluent Japanese. Many international companies in Japan operate in English, and as long as you have the right skills, you’ll fit right in.

2. Healthcare

Japan’s ageing population means there are more older people in need of care than there are nurses and caregivers to help them. Hospitals, nursing homes, and home-care agencies are all recruiting foreign healthcare workers with better salaries, visa sponsorships, and even residency options for those willing to move.

The nation has also made it easy for foreign nurses and caregivers to get certified. If you have experience in nursing, care, or general healthcare, this could be your chance to build a stable career in a country that values and needs your work.

3. Construction

Japan’s cities are constantly expanding, but likewise, there aren’t enough workers to keep up with all the projects. Building roads, apartments, or commercial spaces requires a huge demand for skilled labourers, electricians, project managers, and architects.

Unlike corporate jobs that might require you to be able to speak advanced Japanese, many construction companies are open to hiring foreigners with basic language skills. Some employers even provide free accommodation and other benefits to attract workers. Japan’s construction industry is wide open if you’re looking for hands-on work with good pay.

Unskilled jobs that are in demand

Not everyone moving to Japan needs a degree or specialized skills to land a job. With the country’s labour shortage hitting multiple industries, there’s also a growing demand for unskilled workers in factories, farms, hotels, and retail stores. These jobs may not require advanced qualifications but offer steady income, visa sponsorships, and sometimes even free housing.

Factory Work

Japan is a powerhouse in electronics, automotive, and food production, and these industries are always on the lookout for workers to keep things running smoothly. Whether it’s assembling car parts or packaging food, factory jobs are one of the easiest ways for foreigners to land stable work in Japan.

Many of these jobs offer decent pay, overtime opportunities, and even free or low-cost accommodation. Plus, you don’t need prior experience, employers often provide on-the-job training to help you get up to speed.

Agriculture

When you think of Japan, farming probably isn’t the first thing that comes to mind. But the truth is, the country depends on foreign workers to keep its agricultural sector thriving. From planting and harvesting to packaging fresh produce, farms across Japan regularly hire seasonal workers to help out.

You don’t need to be fluent in Japanese to get started; some employers even provide free or low-cost housing. If you don’t mind working outdoors and want to experience a different side of Japan, a job in agriculture could be a great way to start your journey.

Hospitality & Retail

Japan’s tourism industry is making a strong comeback, and that means more job opportunities in hotels, restaurants, and convenience stores. If you’re friendly and enjoy meeting new people, hospitality and retail jobs can be one of the quickest ways to find work.

Restaurants and hotels are always looking for waiters, kitchen staff, cleaners, and front desk workers. While speaking some Japanese is a plus, many businesses, especially in tourist hotspots, are open to hiring foreigners, even if your language skills are basic.

How to Apply for Jobs in Japan

So, where do you start? The process might seem overwhelming initially, but it’s simpler than you’d think. The secret to success is knowing which visa fits your situation and where to find job openings. Let’s walk through it step by step.

Visa Options: Which One Do You Need?

Japan has several visa categories, but if you’re moving for work, here are the three most common ones:

1. Skilled Worker Visa: If you have experience in IT, engineering, or healthcare, this is your best bet. All you need is a job offer from a Japanese company and the right qualifications, but once you have that, you’re good to go.
2. Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) Visa: This is one of the simplest ways to land a job in Japan, especially in industries that really need workers, like caregiving, hospitality, and agriculture. You don’t need to be fluent in Japanese to qualify for it, making it a great option for foreigners looking to get started.
3. Technical Intern Training Program (TITP): This program is a great way to start if you want to gain real, hands-on experience in fields like manufacturing or farming. It offers training and, sometimes, even a chance to move into a full-time job.

Each visa has different requirements, so it’s important to research which fits your situation.

Where to Find Jobs in Japan

In Japan, most companies don’t hire through walk-ins; they list job openings online. If you’re serious about finding work, these job platforms will be your best shot.

1. GaijinPot Jobs: This is one of the best sites for English-speaking jobs.
2. Daijob: This is a great option for bilingual professionals seeking higher-paying positions.
3. Jobs in Japan: This platform covers various industries, from teaching to hospitality and IT.
4. Hello Work: This is a government-run job centre that helps foreigners find jobs, even if they don’t speak Japanese.
5. Nippon Shigoto: This platform matches foreigners with unskilled and semi-skilled jobs.

If you’d rather have someone help with the process, recruitment agencies like Robert Walters, Pasona Global, and JAC Recruitment can connect you directly with employers.

Getting a job in Japan takes effort, but it’s doable. Once you understand how the system works, you’ll be one step closer to landing a great opportunity.

So, is Japan worth the move? The answer is a big yes if you’re looking for stable employment, competitive wages, and a chance to experience a unique culture. The country needs foreign workers, and despite your skill and skill level, there’s room for you.

Of course, relocating isn’t always easy. You’ll need to adapt to a new language, work culture, and way of life. But if you’re open to learning and ready to step out of your comfort zone, Japan could offer you a financially and professionally rewarding future.

At the end of the day, the opportunity is there. It’s just a matter of whether you’re ready to take it.