Moving to Japan

Securing a visa is your first and most critical step. Japan has strict immigration laws, and unlike some countries where you can look for work on a tourist visa, Japan generally requires you to secure a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) before you even arrive.

Japan offers several types of visas for expatriates, depending on the purpose and length of stay. One of the most common options is the work visa, which is required for individuals planning to take up employment in Japan.

Other visa categories include business manager visas for entrepreneurs and investors, dependent visas for spouses and family members, and student visas for those pursuing education in Japan.

The visa application process can be detailed and time-consuming, so careful preparation is essential. Applicants should ensure all required documents are complete, accurate, and submitted within the specified timelines.

Seeking professional support from immigration specialists familiar with Japanese immigration regulations can also help simplify the process, reduce delays, and ensure compliance with local requirements.

How to apply for Visas when moving to Japan

The process is unique because, in many cases, it begins in Japan even while you are still living overseas. Instead of you applying directly for a visa at your local embassy first, your sponsor in Japan (usually your employer, language school, or university) submits an application for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) to the regional Immigration Bureau on your behalf.

This COE is essentially a pre-approval that confirms you meet the legal requirements for your intended status of residence, such as work, study, or dependent.

After several weeks to a few months, if the application is approved, the Immigration Bureau issues the COE and sends the physical document to your sponsor, who then forwards it to you in your home country. Once you receive the original COE, you take it along with your passport, application form, photos, and any other required documents to the Japanese embassy or consulate responsible for your place of residence.

The embassy uses the COE to process your visa application much more quickly, since many of the checks were already completed in Japan. If everything is in order, they will affix the actual visa to your passport, allowing you to enter Japan and receive your residence card after arrival.

Tokyo often appears on rankings of the world’s more expensive cities, but the actual cost of living depends heavily on lifestyle, neighborhood, and income source.

In recent years, Japan’s prices have been relatively stable compared with the sharper inflation seen in some Western countries, which can make everyday expenses feel more manageable for some residents.

For people earning income from abroad, especially in stronger currencies, certain costs such as rent outside central Tokyo, food from supermarkets, and public transport can be relatively favorable.

At the same time, imported goods, international schools, and central-city housing remain costly, so the overall affordability will vary by individual priorities and spending patterns.

Looking at detailed budget categories such as housing, utilities, transport, food, and leisure, it gives a clearer picture than relying on city-wide “expensive” rankings alone.

Housing options for expats moving to Japan are diverse, with renting being the most common entry point due to high upfront costs and market dynamics. Choices range from furnished short-term apartments to long-term rentals and share houses, tailored to budgets and locations like Tokyo or regional cities.

Rental Basics

Most expats rent via real estate agents (fudosan), facing “upfront fees” of 4-6 months’ rent: deposit (shikikin), key money (reikin), agent fees, and management fees—though “zero reikin” listings are increasingly common to attract foreigners. Apartments are classified by layout (1R for studios, 1LDK for families), with modern “manshon” offering Western amenities like bathtubs and aircon; older units save money but may lack space or insulation.

Tokyo averages ¥87,000/month for a 20-30m² 1K in central areas, dropping to ¥40,000-¥60,000 in suburbs like Saitama; Osaka or Fukuoka hit ¥50,000-¥70,000. Leases are typically 2 years, with no-fee English services via sites like GaijinPot or Oakhouse aiding non-Japanese speakers.

Furnished and Short-Term

Serviced apartments (minpaku or monthly manshon) provide turnkey solutions for 1-12 months, fully furnished with utilities/WiFi included, costing ¥150,000-¥300,000 in Tokyo—perfect for job hunters or families transitioning. Platforms like Sakura House or Sakura Internet offer expat-focused options with English support and proximity to stations.

Share houses (shea hausu) slash costs to ¥40,000-¥80,000, including bills and common areas, fostering community for singles; popular in Tokyo’s Nakano or Osaka.​

Buying Property

Foreigners face no legal barriers to buying, needing only residence status and finances; expect 10-30% down payments on condos (¥50-100 million in Tokyo suburbs). Mortgages require stable income and Japanese language skills, with annual property taxes at 1.4% of assessed value. Rural areas offer bargains (¥10-20 million houses), but resale is tough without citizenship.

What are the best neighbourhoods to live in Japan for expats

Expats in Japan gravitate to neighborhoods blending English services, international communities, transport links, and family amenities, primarily in Tokyo, Osaka, Yokohama, and Fukuoka. Choices depend on lifestyle, central buzz for singles or green suburbs for families.

Japan offers a wide range of education options for expat families, including international schools and local Japanese schools. International schools in Japan follow various curricula such as British, American, International Baccalaureate (IB), and other country-specific systems.

These schools are known for their high academic standards and are a popular choice among expat families seeking continuity in their children’s education.

Japan’s education system is diverse, with a mix of public and private institutions offering local, international, and bilingual programmes. While Japanese public schools primarily teach in Japanese, some private and international schools provide instruction in English or a combination of languages.

Expats moving to Japan with children may choose international schools that align with their home-country curriculum, or local schools for deeper cultural immersion and language development.

For families relocating to Japan, there are various education options available to suit different needs and preferences.

Here are some key points based on our research and understanding:

In summary, public schools are free for compulsory years (ages 6-15), accepting foreign kids with Japanese instruction and optional language support; school year runs April-March. No legal mandate for expat children, but integration aids socialisation

Crown’s school search service can be of great help if you have no idea where to start.

The system covers ~70% of approved costs (medications, hospital stays, etc.), with patients paying 30% co-pay at point-of-service – though rates adjust: 20% for kids under 6 or some seniors, 10% for 75+ (higher for wealthy).

Expats living in Japan can apply for an Individual Number Card (My Number Card) either online or at their local municipal office. After receiving the card, you can register it as your health insurance card, making it easier to access medical services in Japan. When you visit a clinic, hospital, or pharmacy, the My Number Card automatically verifies your public health insurance details, streamlining the check‑in process.

Anyone enrolled in Japan’s National Health Insurance or Employees’ Health Insurance can receive medical treatment at approved healthcare facilities with a standard co‑payment, while the remaining costs are covered by insurance premiums. This system ensures affordable, reliable healthcare access for expats across Japan.

Employer-sponsored plans are standard, or NHI premiums (~¥8,000-¥20,000/month) apply otherwise.

Routine visits cost ¥3,000-¥5,000 out-of-pocket; emergencies use 119 ambulances efficiently.

Quality is universal, but rural access lags; supplements like Aetna cover evacuations.

In addition, expats may choose private healthcare services, which often provide shorter waiting times, English-speaking medical staff, and more personalised care, particularly in major cities.

Expats working in Japan are generally required to pay taxes on income earned in Japan. Japan’s tax system is based on residency status, meaning tax obligations depend on whether an individual is classified as a non-resident, non-permanent resident, or permanent resident for tax purposes.

This typically includes employment income earned in Japan, income from services performed in Japan, and certain Japan-sourced income such as bonuses or allowances related to work carried out in the country.

For expats in Japan, income tax is progressive, with national income tax rates ranging from approximately 5% to 45%, in addition to local inhabitant taxes levied by prefectural and municipal governments.

It’s important to note that even if an expat is not a permanent resident for tax purposes, they may still be subject to Japanese income tax on Japan-sourced income. Non-residents are generally taxed only on income earned in Japan, while residents may be taxed on worldwide income, depending on their status.

Certain exemptions or tax treaty reliefs may apply, particularly for short-term assignments, individuals staying in Japan for less than 183 days, or those covered by double taxation agreements.

In summary, expats working in Japan are usually required to pay tax on income related to work performed in Japan, with tax obligations varying based on residency status and income level.

It is essential for expats to understand Japan’s tax regulations and ensure compliance with local tax laws, ideally with professional tax advice.

As an expat in Japan, you’ll experience a unique blend of tradition and modern life. The country is known for its rich cultural heritage, strong social etiquette, and deep-rooted history. Japanese is the main language, though English is commonly used in international business settings in major cities.

Life in Japan can be fast-paced, especially in cities like Tokyo and Osaka, with a strong work culture and long hours. However, seasonal events such as cherry blossom viewing and traditional festivals offer opportunities to socialise and connect with local communities.

Daily life is made easier by Japan’s efficient, clean, and reliable public transport system, though limited English outside urban areas may present some challenges. Adapting to local customs and communication styles can take time but is often a rewarding experience.

Japan also offers an outstanding culinary scene, from everyday local dishes like sushi and ramen to regional specialities, street food, and Michelin-starred dining.