18 Million Jobs in Japan Over the Next Decade – Freshers, Experienced & Professionals Can Apply

Japan is expected to have 18 million job opportunities over the next decade, for freshers, mid-level, experienced, and senior professionals. The high demand for foreign workers is mainly due to an aging population, a declining birth rate, and the ongoing labour shortages. To retain its economy, Japan is actively seeking international talent across high-demand sectors, offering opportunities for all skill levels, including recent graduates, experienced workers, and highly skilled professionals from countries such as India.

Indians can find jobs in high-demand sectors like IT, engineering, healthcare, logistics, manufacturing, finance, education, and hospitality, making Japan one of the top work abroad destinations.
 

*Want to work in Japan? Let Y-Axis guide you with the process.
 

Why Work in Japan?

Working in Japan offers plenty of benefits, including international exposure, access to the Japanese job market, competitive salaries, high living standards, and a stable career. The growing demand for foreign workers in Japan is driven by its aging population and a shrinking workforce. The country is known for a strong economy, backed by technological advancements and promising job opportunities for freshers, experienced, and highly skilled workers from overseas.

Here are some reasons why you should work in Japan:

• Strong career growth and more job opportunities: Japan will have over 18 million job opportunities in the next decade, with plans to invite 820,000 skilled professionals; driven by both an aging population and a retiring workforce. You can get long-term work benefits, including a stable career and job security.
• High salaries and other incentives: Salaries in Japan for skilled workers are highly competitive, especially for professionals in in-demand sectors such as IT, healthcare, and finance. The average annual salary in Japan ranges from JPY 4 million to JPY 10 million, depending on your job role, location, and occupation, as well as other incentives such as allowances and bonuses.
• Top quality of life: Japan ranks amongst the cleanest and safest countries in the world, with an advanced healthcare system, well-organized transportation, structured public infrastructure, and a well-to-do society that maintains a top-notch living standard.
• Employee rights & social security benefits: Employees working in Japan can avail of health insurance, paid leave, pension schemes, labour protection rights, and financial and social security throughout the tenure of their employment.
• Different immigration pathways: Japan offers various work visa options and fast-track hiring pathways for foreign talent. Most Japanese work visas provide long-term benefits, family sponsorship, and even PR eligibility for specific skilled workers.

 

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Job Outlook in Japan for the Next 10 Years

Japan's job outlook over the next 10 years appears strong and positive, driven by labour shortages, large-scale workforce retirements, and an aging population. One of the major reasons for the demand for skilled workers is a drop in the working-age population. Japan is dependent on foreign professionals to support economic growth and stability. This shift in preferences will create long-term work opportunities for recent graduates, mid-level professionals, and highly experienced professionals across high-demand sectors.

Employment trends in Japan over the next decade

Here are the five main employment trends that will shape the Japanese labour market in the next 10 years:

• Employment growth driven by the workforce: Japan is more likely to rely on international workers to fill workforce shortages. Immigrants will play a key role in sustaining Japan's industries and service sector.
• Increased demand in the healthcare sector: Japan has one of the oldest populations in the world and will have a huge need for eldercare professionals, physiotherapists, caregivers, nurses, and medical assistants, making healthcare one of the main employment sectors.
• Tech and digital roles: Japan will make huge investments in automation, robotics, AI, cloud computing, digital transformation, and cybersecurity, creating significant openings for engineers, data specialists, and IT professionals with advanced tech skills.
• Rise in skilled trades, engineering, and manufacturing sectors: Manufacturing is one of the core factors of Japan’s economy. There will be increased demand for mechanical, industrial, and electrical engineers, as well as skilled trades professionals.
• More opportunities in regional and semi-urban areas: Given ongoing workforce shortages, Japan will have opportunities even in regional and semi-urban areas across the logistics, healthcare, and manufacturing sectors.
   

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Japan Job Market: Trends & Opportunities
 

Employment Opportunities Expected Over the Next Decade in Japan

Japan is projecting over 18 million job opportunities in the coming 10 years, both from new job creation and from replacing the existing workforce.

The aging workforce and the expansion of high-demand industries will play an important role in meeting labour market requirements.

Category	Estimated Jobs
New job creation	~4 million
Replacement demand (retirements & workforce exits)	~14 million
Total employment opportunities	18 million+

 

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What are the most in-demand jobs in Japan for the next 10 years?
 

Who Can Apply for Jobs in Japan?

Japan’s job market offers opportunities for professionals at all skill and experience levels, thanks to its aging population, shrinking workforce, and labour shortages. To maintain its economic growth, Japan is seeking skilled talent across top-demand sectors such as healthcare, IT, engineering, finance, logistics, and manufacturing.

Japan offers various work visa options and long-term settlement benefits for overseas professionals keen to work and contribute to the Japanese workforce.

You can apply for jobs in Japan and work as a fresher, an experienced professional, or a mid-level or senior professional.

Freshers’ & Recent Graduates

Freshers or recently passed-out candidates starting their careers can apply for junior or entry-level jobs in Japan. Some sectors in Japan with vacancies for freshers include hospitality, engineering support, IT support, language-based roles, and business operations. Recent graduates from Japanese universities will have an added advantage, as it will be easier for them to secure jobs with employers willing to sponsor their work visa. You must, however, meet the educational, language, and job-specific skills to qualify for better chances of getting employed.

Experienced Professionals

Skilled professionals with 2-8 years of experience can find jobs in key industries such as engineering, healthcare, IT, manufacturing, and education. Employers in Japan prioritize experienced professionals for specialised and mid-level job roles, offering competitive salaries, stable careers, and visa sponsorship benefits. Individuals with technical expertise, relevant language skills, and prior work experience will have a better chance of being selected. 

Skilled and Senior Professionals

Highly skilled and experienced senior professionals are prioritized for roles that require specialization and leadership, as well as for critical roles addressing workforce shortages in Japan. Senior professional roles usually come with long-term employment contracts, high salaries, and fast-track hiring pathways in Japan. To qualify to work in Japan as a senior professional, you will require strong academic qualifications, global work experience, and niche expertise, among other qualifications.
 

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Most In-Demand Jobs in Japan

Some of the most in-demand jobs in Japan over the coming decade include roles in IT, healthcare, engineering, manufacturing, logistics, and manufacturing services. Job opportunities in these sectors will be driven by replacement demand, as a majority of the Japanese workforce will most likely retire, leaving vacant positions for foreign workers.  

The table below has the list of top in-demand jobs in Japan, along with the approximate job vacancies in the next 10 years and the average annual salaries:
 

Occupation / Industry	Estimated Job Opportunities (Next 10 Years)	Average Salary per Year (JPY)
Healthcare & Elderly Care	5,500,000+	¥4.5 – 6 million
Manufacturing & Industrial Jobs	4,000,000+	¥4 – 6 million
Information Technology (IT & Tech)	2,300,000+	¥5 – 8 million
Engineering (All Streams)	2,100,000+	¥5 – 7 million
Logistics & Transportation	1,600,000+	¥4 – 6 million
Hospitality & Tourism	1,300,000+	¥3 – 4.5 million
Banking, Finance & Business Services	800,000+	¥6 – 9 million
Education & Training	400,000+	¥4 – 6 million

 

Note: The job statistics mentioned in the above table are approximate figures that may vary by sector, industry, and job role. The total number of job vacancies in Japan in the next 10 years is projected to be around 18 million.

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Highest Paying Jobs in Japan
 

Industry-Wise Career Opportunities in Japan

Industries such as elderly care & healthcare, engineering, finance, IT and technology, manufacturing, and logistics will offer the most career opportunities in Japan over the next decade.

The table below has industry-wise career options in Japan, along with the in-demand job roles:
 

Industry	In-Demand Job Roles
Healthcare & Elderly Care	Nurses, Care Workers, Physiotherapists, Medical Assistants, Elderly Care Specialists, Rehabilitation Therapists
IT & Technology	Software Developers, Data Analysts, AI & Machine Learning Engineers, Cybersecurity Specialists, Cloud Engineers, IT Support Engineers
Engineering	Mechanical Engineers, Electrical Engineers, Civil Engineers, Robotics Engineers, Industrial Engineers, Quality Engineers
Manufacturing & Industrial	Production Engineers, CNC Operators, Assembly Technicians, Maintenance Supervisors, Quality Control Specialists
Skilled Trades & Technical Roles	Electricians, Welders, Machinists, Maintenance Technicians, HVAC Technicians
Finance & Business Services	Financial Analysts, Accountants, Auditors, Risk Analysts, Business Consultants
Logistics & Transportation	Supply Chain Coordinators, Warehouse Managers, Delivery Supervisors, Logistics Planners
Education & Training	English Teachers, Corporate Trainers, Academic Coordinators, Teaching Assistants
Hospitality & Tourism	Hotel Managers, Chefs, Restaurant Supervisors, Food & Beverage Managers, Front Office Executives
Retail & Customer Service	Store Managers, Sales Executives, Customer Service Representatives

 

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Japan plans to introduce new migration programme for foreign nationals. Check your eligibility!
 

Japan Work Visas

Foreign nationals must apply for a Japanese work visa to work in the country legally. For most Japanese work visas, you must have a valid job offer from a registered Japanese employer, who will also obtain a CoE (Certificate of Eligibility) from Japanese immigration officials or authorities on your behalf.

Japan offers different work visa options and immigration pathways you can choose, based on your qualifications, job role, compensation, and long-term plans.
 

Japan Work Visas for Indians

Here are some of the most common Japan work visa options and pathways for Indians to work in Japan:
 

Engineer / Specialist in Humanities / International Services Visa

The Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services visa is one of the most common work visa options in Japan. The ESHIS visa is ideal for foreign workers seeking roles in IT, engineering, finance, education, and business services. To qualify for the Japan Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services visa, you must have a relevant educational qualification, work expertise, and an employment offer from a Japanese employer who is also willing to offer employer sponsorship. The ESHIS visa is valid for 1-5 years and can be renewed, upon eligibility.

Also, read…

How can I migrate to Japan as a Financial Analyst?
 

Highly Skilled Professional (HSP) Visa

The HSP (Highly Skilled Professional) visa is a points-based work visa option for highly skilled global talent. To qualify for the HSP visa, you must score a minimum of 70. Points will be awarded based on your education, age, salary, work experience, etc. The HSP visa offers faster processing, flexibility to switch job roles, family reunification, and even qualifies you for PR in 1-3 years, provided you meet the criteria.

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Can I apply for a Japan work visa if I'm over 40?
 

J-Skip (Fast-Track Skilled Visa Framework)

The J-Skip visa is a fast-track work visa option for highly experienced, high-salaried professionals. The J-Skip visa offers faster processing with easier access to PR and long-term settlement, provided the income and work experience thresholds are met. This is one of the most popular work visa pathways for professionals in research, technology, finance, and senior corporate job roles.

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How can I migrate to Japan as a Caregiver?
 

Japan Post-Study Work Options (For International Graduates)

International students who have studied in Japan can convert to a work visa if they obtain a valid job offer. While Japan does not offer a post-study work visa, it allows graduates to apply for an Engineer / Specialist in Humanities / International Services visa, which permits them to reside and work in Japan for an extended period.

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Can Indian Students Work Part-Time While Studying in Japan?
 

Cost of Living in Japan

The cost of living in Japan varies by city, region, lifestyle, and accommodation preferences. Some of Japan's main cities, like Yokohama, Osaka, and Tokyo, are comparatively expensive, while regional cities are affordable. The country is known for an efficient transport system, high living standards, and a safe environment for expats, making it easy for them to settle.

The average cost of living in Japan is around JPY 150,000 to JPY 200,000 per month, which includes transportation, rent, food, and other living expenses. Accommodation is the largest expense, followed by utilities, groceries, and transportation. You can lead an affordable life in Japan if you choose to live outside the main city centres and opt for shared accommodation.
 

Expense Category	Average Monthly Cost (JPY)
Rent (1-bedroom apartment, city centre)	¥80,000 – ¥120,000
Rent (1-bedroom apartment, outside city centre)	¥50,000 – ¥80,000
Groceries & food	¥30,000 – ¥45,000
Utilities (electricity, gas, water)	¥10,000 – ¥15,000
Internet & mobile phone	¥6,000 – ¥8,000
Public transportation	¥10,000 – ¥15,000
Health insurance / medical expenses	Mostly covered (mandatory public insurance)
Miscellaneous & personal expenses	¥15,000 – ¥25,000

 

Note: The costs mentioned in the above table are approximate; the exact cost of living in Japan varies by city, accommodation, personal expenditure, and lifestyle choices.

*Want to work and settle in Japan? Let Y-Axis guide you with the process.
 

How to Apply for a Japan Work Visa from India?

You can follow the steps below to apply for a work visa in Japan from India:

Step 1: Check whether you are eligible for a Japan work visa based on your qualifications, and whether you fulfil the work experience and other visa and job requirements.

Step 2: Select the Japan work visa that best matches your profile (Engineer / Specialist in Humanities / International Services Visa, Highly Skilled Professional (HSP) Visa, or J-Skip visa.

Step 3: Apply for jobs at Japanese companies that offer visa sponsorship.

Step 4: Get a job offer from an employer in Japan, who will then initiate the Certificate of Eligibility (CoE) on your behalf.

Step 5: Arrange the documents required for the work visa, including a passport, job offer, CoE, academic qualifications, work experience, and any additional documents.

Step 6: Apply for the Japan work visa at the local Japanese embassy or consulate.

Step 7: Complete the visa fee payment as per the chosen category.

Step 8: Schedule and attend the visa interview, where you will be required to submit your biometrics and any other additional information (if requested by the embassy)

Step 9: Fly to Japan once your visa is approved.

 

Also, read…

Can a Japan work visa be converted to a permanent resident visa?
 

When Is the Best Time to Apply for Jobs in Japan?

Now is a good time to apply for jobs in Japan, as the country is experiencing labour shortages across several industries. The country’s ageing population and low birth rates are two of the main drivers of rising retirement levels and a demand for skilled foreign workers.

There is a huge demand across sectors such as elderly care & healthcare, IT & technology, manufacturing, engineering, hospitality, etc., with roles for freshers, mid-level, and experienced professionals. Employers in Japan are increasingly preferring overseas candidates with the right skills and qualifications by offering visa sponsorship benefits.

The country invests heavily in automation, healthcare, infrastructure, digital transformation, and manufacturing, creating new opportunities. Applying for a job in Japan at an early stage can be beneficial, helping you secure a job faster and providing long-term benefits such as a stable career, a high salary, and eligibility for permanent residency in Japan.

 

*Are you looking for step-by-step assistance with overseas immigration? Contact Y-Axis, the world’s No. 1 overseas immigration consultancy, for end-to-end assistance!

 

FAQs

Will Japan really have 18 million job openings over the next decade?

Yes, Japan is expected to have around 18 million jobs in the coming decade, driven by both replacement and new job creation. Japan is known to have one of the oldest populations, and a majority of its workforce will likely retire in the coming years. To maintain its economy, the country will require skilled foreign workers in sectors such as engineering, manufacturing, healthcare, IT, logistics, hospitality, finance, and education.

Why is Japan hiring foreign workers in such large numbers?

Japan is experiencing workforce and labour shortages across in-demand sectors due to its ageing population and declining birth rate. The country currently needs skilled foreign workers to help maintain the economy and work in social services, infrastructure, and other sectors. Japan is even relaxing its immigration policies to allow foreign workers to enter the country and address skill shortages.

Can freshers apply for jobs in Japan, or is experience mandatory?

Yes, freshers can apply for jobs in Japan, even without prior experience. Freshers can apply for junior-level or entry-level jobs in engineering assistance, manufacturing, IT support, language-based roles, and the hospitality sector. To qualify for entry-level jobs in Japan, you must have a basic understanding of the Japanese language, strong technical skills, and job-relevant qualifications.

Which industries will create the most jobs in Japan in the next 10 years?

The healthcare and elderly care industries will have the most jobs in Japan in the next 10 years, followed by engineering, IT, logistics, education, and finance. The healthcare sector alone is expected to have millions of jobs in the coming years, due to the country’s ageing population. Digital roles and job roles in the IT sector are also expanding, along with those in engineering and manufacturing.

Are there job opportunities in Japan for Indian professionals?

Yes, there are job opportunities in Japan for Indian professionals, especially in finance, manufacturing, IT, research, and engineering. Companies in Japan look for English proficiency, technical expertise, and prior work experience when hiring Indian professionals. India is a significant talent source due to the high availability of skilled workers. Indian professionals with relevant qualifications, a valid job offer, and employer sponsorship can legally live and work in Japan.

Do I need to know Japanese to work in Japan?

No, you do not need to know Japanese to work in the country, as it is not mandatory. However, if you have basic knowledge or proficiency in Japanese, it can add credibility to your profile, help you find jobs faster, and support cultural integration. Most MNCs, IT companies, and engineering companies in Japan follow English as their standard language.

What is replacement demand, and why does it matter in Japan?

Replacement demand refers to the job openings that arise when an employee retires or permanently leaves the workforce. In Japan, replacement demand is expected to create 18 million jobs over the coming decade, mainly due to declining birth rates and an ageing population. Getting a job in Japan over the next 10 years will not only offer high salaries but also a stable career and job growth.

What types of jobs are available for experienced professionals in Japan?

Experienced professionals in Japan can find senior or mid-level roles in project management, finance, IT development, supply chain management, engineering design, research, and manufacturing supervision. Japanese employers prioritize employees with problems-solving skills, prior professional experience, and leadership qualities. Experienced professionals can secure long-term job contracts, earn high salaries, and qualify for fast-track hiring options.

Are there high-paying jobs in Japan for foreign workers?

Yes, there are high-paying jobs in Japan for foreign workers in engineering, IT, research, consulting, and finance. The exact salary may vary based on your job role, industry, level of experience, and job location. Some highly skilled workers may also be eligible for special visa categories that offer fast-track processing and long-term settlement benefits. Specialists and senior professionals can earn higher salaries in Japan than in other developed countries.

Can working in Japan lead to permanent residence?

Yes, working in Japan can lead to permanent residence, provided you fulfill specific requirements such as income, conduct, and residency period. Highly qualified and skilled professionals can get a faster PR pathway in 1-3 years. Some factors that can increase your chances of qualifying for PR in Japan include a stable job, regular tax payments, and integration into Japanese society.

What is the most common work visa used by professionals in Japan?

One of the most commonly used work visas for professionals in Japan is the Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services visa. The visa covers various job roles, including engineering, IT, corporate, finance, and education. To qualify for the Engineer / Specialist in Humanities / International Services visa, you must have relevant academic qualifications and employer sponsorship. The visa can also be renewed upon meeting the required eligibility.

Is Japan a good long-term career destination?

Yes, Japan is a good country for long-term career prospects. The country offers exposure to advanced technology, a stable work environment, and job security, while also offering high salaries. You can also avail of social security benefits, pursue career growth, and work in one of the well-developed countries while enjoying long-term settlement benefits.

What is the average salary in Japan for foreign workers?

The average salary offered in Japan may vary depending on your experience and industry. Entry-level job roles usually offer moderate pay, while highly skilled professionals in engineering, finance, and IT can enjoy higher salaries. The salary offered in Japan is generally sufficient to lead a good life in the country, provided you opt for cities outside the mainland.

Which cities in Japan offer the most job opportunities?

Japanese cities like Tokyo, Yokohama, Nagoya, Fukuoka, and Osaka offer the most job opportunities, as they are major industrial hubs. Tokyo is known as the IT, corporate, and finance hub with plenty of opportunities in logistics, manufacturing, healthcare, and engineering. These job roles offer a low cost of living and high salaries.

Can I apply for jobs in Japan from India?

Yes, you can apply for jobs in Japan from India through trusted job search platforms. Most Japanese employers recruit candidates from abroad and conduct online or virtual interview processes. Once you get a job and receive your offer, the Japanese employer initiates your work visa process. Indian Engineers, IT professionals, and highly specialised professionals with in-demand skills can apply for jobs in Japan.

Is Japan suitable for families moving from India?

Yes, Japan is suitable for families moving from India, as the country generally offers jobs with stability and long-term prospects. Japan is a good place to settle with your family as the country is known for its high-quality education, advanced healthcare facilities, efficient public transportation, and a safe environment. You can take your family from India by having them apply for qualifying dependent visas.

What challenges should foreigners expect when working in Japan?

Some of the most common challenges foreigners can expect while working in Japan include cultural differences, language barriers, and adapting to the country's workplace culture. The work culture is more structured and formal than in the other top countries. However, the companies in Japan offer extended support in integrating with society. The challenges initially encountered while working in the country generally decline over time, making it easier to learn the language and gain cultural exposure.

Is the cost of living manageable in Japan for foreign workers?

Yes, the cost of living in Japan is generally manageable for foreign workers, particularly those residing outside major cities. Cities like Tokyo are comparatively expensive, while regional areas offer lower costs for housing and daily expenses. Public transportation facilities are also highly efficient in Japan, with low healthcare costs. The competitive salaries offered in Japan make it easier for foreign workers to manage day-to-day living costs.

Does Japan prefer younger workers over older professionals?

No, Japan does not have any such preferences, such as favoring younger workers over older ones. The country is facing skilled workforce shortages and is currently seeking qualified professionals across all age groups to contribute to the country’s economy. Skilled workers with specialised skills, experience, and educational qualifications are preferred for most of the professional job roles.

Why should Indians consider Japan over other countries?

Indians should consider Japan over other countries if they are looking to work in advanced industries, with high salaries and long-term job stability. The workforce demand in Japan is long-lasting, with a consistent demand for skilled labour. Indians who wish to advance their careers, work in a safe environment, and have access to a diverse range of job opportunities in the coming decade can choose to work in Japan rather than in other countries.