How do I teach English in Japan?

To teach English in Japan formally you must have a Bachelors degree in any subject plus be a native English speaker (or have this level of fluency). You’ll generally also be expected to have:

• A recognised TEFL qualification
• Citizenship of one of the seven official native-English speaking countries
• Clean criminal record check.

You will usually need a work visa to teach English in Japan. If you’re going to teach English in either a public or private school in Japan, the school will normally sponsor your visa.

There are three main ways to teach English in Japan:

• Teach English in a private school in Japan. TEFL jobs boards are a brilliant starting point if you want to teach English in a private school in Japan – they list numerous TEFL posts and are updated daily. Teach English in a public school in Japan. The simplest way to teach English in one of Japan’s public schools is to apply to the Japanese government’s JET (Japan Exchange and Teaching) scheme. Do check out TEFL jobs boards  too though, as some of Japan’s public schools also recruit English teachers direct.
• Teach English privately in Japan. Once you’re in Japan, you’ll find loads of opportunities to teach English to private individuals – particularly in the big cities. You don’t need any qualifications but makes sure your visa allows it!

• Japan strongly prefers English teachers to be in their 20s and 30s
• Japan is one of the world’s best paid countries for teaching English
• Jobs to teach English in Japan are available year round, particularly in private schools.