Visa guide · Asia
Instructor Visa for Teaching English in Japan
Japan's visa for K-12 ALT and public school teaching roles. Bachelor's required, native-English speaker preference.
Japan splits its teaching visas into two: the Instructor visa for public elementary, junior high, and senior high school teachers (including ALTs through dispatch companies), and the Specialist in Humanities/International Services visa for private language schools (eikaiwa). Most teachers don't choose — the employer determines which applies.
Duration
1, 3, or 5 years depending on the case. JET issues 1-year visas; eikaiwa chains often 3.
Cost
USD 30 single-entry, USD 60 multiple-entry. Document costs minimal compared to Korea/China.
What you need
- Bachelor's degree from an accredited university
- Letter of sponsorship from the employing school or dispatch company
- Certificate of Eligibility (COE) issued by Japanese immigration
- Native-English speaker preference (not strictly required by visa rules but a practical hiring constraint)
- Passport-style photo and a clean passport
The process
1. Get a job offer
JET program, a dispatch company (Interac, Heart, Borderlink), or a direct-hire school. JET applications open in October for the following August start.
2. School applies for your COE
Your employer submits paperwork to Japanese immigration. The COE takes 1-3 months to issue.
3. Apply for the visa at a Japanese consulate
Once the COE is in hand, apply at a Japanese consulate in your home country. Visa stamped in 5-10 business days.
4. Enter Japan, complete residency
Receive your residence card at the airport. Register at your local ward office within 14 days.
Common questions
JET vs eikaiwa visa — which is better?
JET is the most prestigious entry: government program, public school placement, full benefits. Eikaiwa hires year-round and you can start within 60 days, but the work is evening hours at private language schools.
Can I switch employers within Japan?
Yes. Once you're in Japan with a valid status, switching jobs is easier than in Korea — no Letter of Release needed. You do need to file a change-of-employer notice at the immigration bureau.
Do non-native speakers qualify?
Visa-wise, yes. Practically, almost all schools require native-English fluency. CELTA or TESOL plus exceptional English can land you eikaiwa or international school roles.
Tools you'll need
Resources for teachers preparing to apply. Links are partner affiliates that fund the site at no cost to you.
Country guide
Teach English in Japan
JET, eikaiwa chains, and ALT positions. Pay is steady, vacation is short.
See the full Japan guide →Other visa guides
E-2 Visa (South Korea)
Korea's standard work visa for native-English ESL teachers. Bachelor's, criminal check, sealed transcripts.
Z Visa (China)
China's work visa for foreign teachers. Two years' work experience, TEFL, and a notarized background check required.
Auxiliares de Conversación (Spain)
Spain's government language assistant program. Stipend plus a student visa for non-EU citizens.
Work Permit and TRC (Vietnam)
Vietnam's combination of Work Permit plus Temporary Residence Card. Bachelor's + TEFL + health check.
Non-Immigrant B Visa (Thailand)
Thailand's work visa for foreign teachers. Bachelor's + TEFL + Thai teacher license (waiverable for first 2 years).
Work Visa (UAE)
Tax-free employment visa for licensed K-12 teachers in the UAE. Strict credential requirements but high pay.