How to Get an IT Job in Japan
Japan is one of the world’s leaders in technology and innovation. From robotics to artificial intelligence, the demand for IT professionals continues to grow rapidly. For Indonesians and other foreign workers, Japan offers excellent opportunities to build a career in the IT sector with competitive salaries and global exposure. However, getting an IT job in Japan requires preparation, skills, and understanding of the job market.
1. Why Work in Japan’s IT Industry?
There are many benefits to working in IT roles in Japan:
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High salaries and career growth opportunities.
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Access to advanced technologies in AI, robotics, fintech, and software engineering.
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International working environment in global companies.
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Stable demand due to Japan’s digital transformation and talent shortage.
2. Common IT Jobs for Foreigners in Japan
Some of the most in-demand IT positions in Japan include:
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Software Engineer / Programmer (Java, Python, C++, PHP).
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Web Developer (front-end, back-end, full-stack).
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Data Scientist & AI Specialist.
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Cloud Engineer & DevOps Specialist.
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Cybersecurity Analyst.
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IT Support & Network Engineer.
3. Salary Expectations in IT Jobs
IT professionals in Japan usually earn:
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Entry-level positions: ¥280,000 – ¥350,000 per month.
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Mid-level engineers: ¥400,000 – ¥600,000 per month.
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Senior specialists: ¥700,000+ per month (depending on company and skills).
Besides salary, many IT companies in Japan offer housing allowances, transportation support, health insurance, and yearly bonuses.
4. Skills and Qualifications Needed
To secure an IT job in Japan, you should prepare:
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Programming knowledge (Java, Python, Ruby, C#, or other in-demand languages).
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Practical experience (internships, projects, or previous IT jobs).
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Japanese language ability (minimum JLPT N3; for multinational firms, English may be sufficient).
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Soft skills like teamwork, problem-solving, and adaptability to Japanese work culture.
5. Visa Options for IT Professionals
The most common visa types for IT workers are:
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Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services Visa.
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Highly Skilled Professional Visa (for experienced IT experts).
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Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) Visa (for certain technical jobs, though IT usually falls under specialist categories).
For step-by-step guidance on visas and applications, you can check resources like Internship Jepang which provides updated information for Indonesians.
6. How to Apply for IT Jobs in Japan
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Build a strong CV in both English and Japanese (Rirekisho format).
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Apply through official job portals, recruitment agencies, or company websites.
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Prepare for technical interviews, including coding tests and problem-solving tasks.
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Highlight your international perspective—many Japanese companies value global talent.
7. Tips for Success in the Japanese IT Job Market
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Continuously improve your Japanese language skills (business level Japanese opens more opportunities).
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Stay updated with new technologies like AI, cloud computing, and blockchain.
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Be ready to adapt to Japanese work culture (punctuality, teamwork, and respect).
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Build a professional network—attend tech events, seminars, and online communities in Japan.
Conclusion
Getting an IT job in Japan is highly possible for skilled Indonesians and other international candidates. With the right technical knowledge, Japanese language skills, and cultural preparation, you can secure a high-paying position in one of the world’s most advanced technology markets.
For more resources and step-by-step application guidance, visit Internship Jepang.