Have you ever considered moving to Japan? Japan is a good choice for people who want to immigrate as it has a unique culture, business opportunities, and climate.
Moving to Japan has disadvantages, however, such as acquiring the proper visa and adapting to what for most is an entirely new way of life.
This article will take you through the process of relocation to Japan. It will also discuss how you’ll travel there and what to expect when you arrive.
Why People Move to Japan
It’s a great decision to relocate to Japan for different reasons. Some relocate for work, but others relocate for school or to settle into a new life.
Japan has exciting cities, safe towns, and bright traditions. Food, heritage, technology, and nature are all monstrous attractions, too.
If you need some excitement or something a little more relaxed, Japan has mountains, cities, and coastlines to fulfill every need.
Things to Know Before Moving to Japan
Relocating to Japan is a life-changing experience. However, moving to Japan from any other country can be overwhelming.
Pay attention to the below points when you relocate to help you prepare for what is to come.
Document Authentication and Translation
Japan might require documents like birth or marriage certificates to be translated into Japanese and authenticated. You may require:
- An apostille in your home country
- Certified legal translation
- Notarization according to local needs
- Begin in advance because these steps may take weeks.
Housing Expenses
Renting in Japan, particularly in Tokyo or Osaka, is costly. Expect:
- Reikin (“gratitude money”) of 1–2 months’ rent
- Security deposit, real estate agent fees, and first month’s rent upfront (total of 2–6 months)
- A guarantor requirement
- Unfurnished apartments without appliances
- Look into English-speaking agencies or serviced apartments when moving in.
Learning Basic Japanese
Having simple Japanese knowledge aids daily life. Learn:
- Greetings and polite expressions
- Kanji for symbols (e.g. entrance, exit, men, women)
- Everyday shopping and transport expressions
- Use the Duolingo or LingoDeer apps, or local language courses when you arrive.
Cultural Adaption
Japan values politeness, punctuality, and indirectness. Adapt to:
- Removing shoes at home
- Silence on public transport
- Not eating on the go
- Gift-giving etiquette and bowing
- Understanding these norms makes integration easier.
Healthcare
Japan offers good, affordable healthcare. You must enroll in National Health Insurance (NHI) or Employee Insurance, depending upon your status.
- Premiums depend on income
- 30% is paid by you; government covers the remaining portion
- There are dental and mental health facilities
- Book English-speaking clinics in advance for emergencies.
Emergency Numbers
- 110 – Police
- 119 – Fire and ambulance
- #7119 – Non-emergency medical consultation (available in some areas)
Download disaster-readiness apps like Yurekuru Call in order to get earthquake warnings.
Common Types of Visas for Japan
If you’re moving to Japan, you’ll need the right visa for your purpose. Common long-term options include:
- Working visa: For professionals with a job offer in fields like engineering, IT, or teaching. Requires a job offer, qualifications, and a Certificate of Eligibility (COE).
- Student visa: For those enrolled in Japanese universities or language schools. Requires proof of enrollment, financial stability, and a COE.
- Spouse visa: For Japanese citizen or permanent resident spouse. Requires a marriage certificate, proof of relationship, and a COE.
- Startup visa: For business startups to establish a business in Japan. Requires a business plan, investment, and approval from the local government.
- Highly skilled professional visa: For highly educated individuals, high-income earners, or specialists. Requires points-based evaluation, employment offer, and COE.
What is Japan’s Digital Nomad Visa?
Japan’s digital nomad visa scheme, which was launched in 2024, allows remote workers to live in Japan for up to six months without the presence of local employment or the setup of a local business.
It’s aimed at high-earning individuals who work for foreign firms or as independent professionals with foreign clients, and it gives them a legal way to work remotely and live in Japan.
How Much Does it Cost to Move to Japan?
The cost of moving to Japan varies depending on your lifestyle and where you live.
Cost of living
- Rent: A one-room flat in downtown Tokyo will cost around ¥150,000–250,000/month ($1,000–1,700 USD). Outside of the city, it drops to ¥80,000–140,000/month ($550–950 USD). In cities like Kyoto or Fukuoka, rental starts at ¥60,000–120,000/month ($400–850 USD).
- Utilities: Pay ¥10,000–25,000/month ($70–170 USD) for electricity, gas, water, and internet.
- Food: Eating out and groceries will run about ¥40,000–60,000/month ($270–400 USD) per person.
Transportation
Public transportation in Japan is good and widespread. A metro or train monthly pass in the cities of Tokyo will run about ¥10,000–20,000 ($70–140 USD) depending on distance.
For intercity travel between cities within the country, utilize a Japan Rail Pass to save on high-expense intercity trains.
Other cost of relocation
- Flights: One-way flights from Europe or the US vary from $500–1,500 USD depending on the city of departure and season.
- Visa: Japan’s digital nomad visa is low-cost or free, but needs proof of insurance and income. Small fees for some visas.
- Temporary accommodation: Short-term rentals or Airbnbs are ¥9,000–12,000/night ($20–80 USD), typically more in major cities.
- Shipping items: Shipping boxes by air or sea freight is $300–2,000+ USD, depending on speed and size.
Overall, moving to Tokyo will cost between $4,000–10,000 USD upfront for flight, rent, deposit (usually 2–3 months’ worth of rent), and minimal establishment costs.
Is It Hard to Move to Japan?
Many question if it is hard to relocate to Japan. The reply is, it is not unless you’re in an exceptional case. For the majority of people, the key is planning and patience.
You will need to contend with paperwork, language restrictions, and adjusting to a new way of life. But using the correct guide, the process is much more feasible.
What Is It Like Working in Japan?
Most of the foreigners move to Japan for work. Japanese work culture is unique and, in some ways, strict. Here are some things you will notice:
- Long Hours: There is a lot of overtime in most industries.
- Teamwork: Team unity and cooperation are more appreciated than individual achievement.
- Hierarchy: Seniors and superiors are given the most respect.
- Punctuality: Being punctual is a mark of respect.
Japanese workplaces, despite problems, tend to be extremely safe, supportive, and well organized.
What Is Everyday Life in Japan Like?
Japan is renowned for being clean, secure, and efficient. Here is what to anticipate:
- Convenience Stores: They are called kombini and are ubiquitous and carry much more than snacks.
- Public Transport: Buses and trains are clean, quick, and nearly always punctual.
- Cash-Based: Credit cards are not as prevalent. Bring cash or get a Japanese prepaid card.
- Recycling: Separate your waste or be ready to struggle at first.
Step by Step Procedure of Relocating to Japan
Now, let us detail the step-by-step procedure of relocating to Japan:
Step 1: Plan Your Relocation
Start planning six months ahead. Know the place where you will live, possible work, schools, and what to pack along. The climate will be hot and humid in summer and cold in winter. Pack layers and comfortable shoes, as lots of walking will be involved.
Step 2: Get Your Documents Ready
Make sure your passport is valid. Gather school records, job contracts, or marriage certificates if needed. Get several passport-sized photos; you’ll need them for various official forms.
Step 3: Apply for a Visa
Work with your future employer or school for support. Submit all required documents to the consulate. The application process can be slow, so start as soon as possible.
Step 4: Find Accommodation
Start with short-term housing, such as a temporary apartment or shared house, while you search for a long-term one. Some work or study assist in finding accommodations.
Step 5: Book Your Flight
Book your flight after your visa has been approved and you have arranged housing.
Step 6: Arrive and Enrol
You must register your address at the ward office when you arrive. You will be given a residence card, which you will need to open a bank account and get health insurance.
Step 7: Get Comfortable
Open a bank account and phone. Visit the city or ward office to sign up for health insurance and pension (which you can opt out of, in certain cases, if you are only staying temporarily).
Step 8: Begin Discovery
Soak it all up! Be adventurous with your food, temple-hopping, and walking around Japanese gardens. Learn about your neighborhood: where is the nearest train station? Where do locals shop? What parks are nearby?
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Need to Speak Japanese
One can get along in big cities without using much Japanese. However, learning the basics will help with everyday life, job hunting, and friendship. There are plenty of low-cost and free Japanese classes for foreigners.
Is Japan Good for Families?
Japan is very family-friendly with good public schools, plentiful parks, and specialized medicine. International schools are available, but they might be costly.
Will I Have Access to International Products?
Big cities also possess international stores and specialty stores for food. Internet shopping is also common and reliable.
Final Thoughts
Life in Japan will change for good. There are drawbacks along the road, but you will find new pleasures and create memories.
The secret is preparation, patience, and willingness to dive into the unknown. If you are thinking of relocating to Japan, take the plunge—there is a good chance that you will find a second home.
