Japan — English Teaching Roles (Visa Sponsorship) — 2026 — approx. JPY 3,000 per hour
Overview
Japan remains a popular destination for English teachers from across the world. Schools and language centres commonly offer clear contracts, competitive pay and visa support for sponsored roles. Teaching in Japan is a great way to gain international experience, improve your teaching skills and learn about Japanese culture.
Where you might work
- State schools (Assistant Language Teacher / ALT)
- Private language schools (eikaiwa)
- International schools and kindergartens
- Universities and vocational colleges
- Corporate training centres
- Online and hybrid teaching roles
Role summary
English teachers help students improve speaking, listening, reading and writing skills, and encourage cultural exchange. Many employers can sponsor work visas under categories such as Instructor or Specialist in Humanities for qualified candidates.
Typical duties
- Plan and deliver engaging English lessons for groups or individual learners
- Prepare lesson materials, assessments and classroom resources
- Support Japanese co‑teachers and classroom activities where required
- Monitor student progress and give constructive feedback
- Manage classroom behaviour and encourage participation
- Take part in school events, meetings and professional training
- Communicate with parents or corporate clients when appropriate
Essential qualifications and experience
- A bachelor’s degree (in any subject) is usually required for sponsored positions
- TEFL/TESOL/CELTA certification is commonly expected for eikaiwa and many language roles
- A clear criminal‑record check is required (no relevant convictions)
- Teaching experience is desirable; classroom or tutoring experience is useful
- Good spoken and written English to teach and complete administrative tasks
- Ability to adapt to Japanese workplace culture and work collaboratively
Pay and benefits
- Indicative pay around JPY 3,000 per hour (varies by employer, role and location)
- Paid annual leave and national holidays as specified in your contract
- Statutory health insurance and pension contributions as required by Japanese law
- Help with accommodation or an accommodation allowance in many roles
- Relocation support and possible contribution towards flights for some employers
- Training and professional‑development opportunities
Visa sponsorship notes
Employers who sponsor teachers will normally provide the paperwork and guidance for your work visa. Common sponsored categories include Instructor and Specialist in Humanities, depending on the post. Visa rules, document requirements and processing times vary — always ask the employer for a clear list of steps, documents needed and expected timelines before accepting an offer. Meeting immigration, health and background‑check requirements is the applicant’s responsibility.
Support for African and Asian applicants
We welcome applications from African and Asian communities and other overseas candidates. If you are applying from abroad or English is not your first language, please tell us if you would like extra support (for example: plain‑language guidance, more time for paperwork, translated instructions or an interpreter). Employers and recruiters may be able to:
- Explain visa steps and likely timelines in straightforward terms
- List typical documents required (passport, degree certificate, CV, references, TEFL/TESOL/CELTA)
- Advise on recognition of overseas qualifications and any local checks required
- Offer reasonable adjustments during application and interview stages
How to apply
Please submit a CV, a copy of your highest qualification and a short covering note describing your teaching experience and availability. If you need visa sponsorship, state this clearly and include any questions about eligibility — the employer or recruiter will reply with guidance.
Important note
You must meet Japanese immigration, health and any background‑check requirements to take up a sponsored role. Employers can assist with paperwork, but obtaining the visa and meeting eligibility is ultimately your responsibility.
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