Japan is one of the most popular destinations for English teachers worldwide, thanks to its rich culture, high demand for native speakers, and competitive salaries. If you’re considering teaching English in Japan, you’ll need to meet certain qualifications and understand the requirements.
A. Bachelor’s Degree
A minimum of a bachelor’s degree in any field is required for obtaining a work visa. While your degree doesn’t have to be in English or education, having a background in these areas can give you an advantage. Some schools may also prefer candidates with degrees in linguistics, education, or English to ensure a strong teaching foundation.
B. Native or Near-Native English Proficiency
Most schools and programs require teachers to be native English speakers or have native-level fluency. Many employers prefer applicants from English-speaking countries such as the U.S., Canada, the U.K., Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, and South Africa. However, non-native speakers with high proficiency and strong teaching credentials can also secure positions.
C. TEFL, TESOL, or CELTA Certification (Preferred but Not Always Required)
While a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language), TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages), or CELTA (Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) certification is not mandatory, it can enhance your job prospects and salary. Some employers, particularly international schools and high-end English conversation schools (Eikaiwa), prefer candidates with at least 120 hours of TEFL training. In some cases, schools offer in-house training or financial assistance for certification.
D. Clean Criminal Record
A background check is typically required, especially if you’re working with children. Having a criminal record may disqualify you from obtaining a work visa or being hired by employers. It is advisable to obtain a police clearance certificate before applying to ensure a smooth hiring process.
E. Health and Medical Requirements
Some employers may require a medical check-up to ensure you are in good health, particularly for long-term contracts. Conditions that require ongoing medical care should be considered when planning a move to Japan, as healthcare access and medication availability may differ from your home country.
F. Enthusiasm and Adaptability
Employers look for candidates who are not only qualified but also enthusiastic about teaching and willing to adapt to Japanese culture. Strong communication skills, patience, and an open-minded approach to cultural differences will help in creating a positive classroom environment and adjusting to life in Japan.
Teaching Nomad can make this process a breeze for you! We provide document authentications services AND visa application services! Even if you just have some simple authentication questions, feel free to reach out!
