You have passed the SSW exam. You have your Japanese language certificate. Now what? Finding your first caregiving job in Japan as a foreigner is its own challenge — and most guides skip the honest details. Here is exactly what worked for me, and what I would do differently today.
How I found my first caregiving job
When I was ready to find work, I searched online and found a website that connects caregivers with employers in Japan. I did not realise at first that it was a recruitment agency — I only understood this during our first phone conversation when they suggested a position in Tokyo. By then, the process had already begun smoothly.
I contacted them by phone initially, then switched to LINE for document exchange — which is very standard in Japan. Through LINE, I sent them my resume, a passport photo, a copy of my Japanese language certification, and my nursing care skills pass certificate. Within one week they had found a job match for me.
The process was not particularly challenging for me. But I want to be honest about one thing: if your Japanese language ability is not strong, you may struggle to explain clearly to an agency what kind of job you are looking for, what conditions matter to you, and what your timeline is. Language is not just a visa requirement in Japan — it shapes every interaction you have, including your job search.
What to tell an agency from the beginning
When I first contacted my agency, I was upfront about my situation. I told them I could work anywhere in Japan, but needed a job as soon as possible because my visa had less than three months remaining. I also told them I wanted a position with a good salary.
Being clear about your specific needs from the very first conversation saves time for everyone. Do not make the agency guess what you want. Tell them your timeline, your location preferences, your salary expectations, and any other conditions that matter to you. The more specific you are, the faster and better the match will be.
The interview — simpler than I expected
My interview was in person. I did not prepare anything specific beforehand — I simply decided to speak honestly to whatever questions they asked. That turned out to be the right approach.
Before the interview, I expected difficult and probing questions. What I actually received were simple ones: “Why do you want to work as a caregiver?” and “When did you come to Japan?” The conversation was straightforward and the interview went smoothly.
My advice for your first caregiving job interview in Japan:
Wear a suit. Appearance matters in Japanese interview culture — this is not optional. Learn basic interview etiquette. Bowing, being on time, speaking respectfully to everyone you meet — these things are noticed and remembered. Strengthen your language before the interview. Even conversational ability will set you apart from many other foreign candidates. And most importantly — do not try to outsmart yourself. My interview was simple, but that does not mean yours will be. Be genuine, be honest, and do not overthink your answers.
Job search options — agencies vs independent search
Using a recruitment agency is not the only way to find a caregiving job in Japan. Here is an honest overview of your main options:
Recruitment agencies
SSW-specialised agencies are free for workers — they are paid by the employers, not by you. They provide vetted employers, multilingual support, and faster placements. They also assist with visa applications and status changes, which is enormously helpful given how complex the SSW visa paperwork is.
The downside is that you are limited to their specific network. Quality of support varies between agencies. And as always — be cautious of any agency asking you to pay a fee. Legitimate agencies do not charge workers. If someone asks you for money to find you a job, walk away immediately.
Well-known agencies for foreign caregivers include TreeGlobalPartners and Genrise, among others.
English-language job websites
Several platforms cater specifically to foreign workers in Japan: Guidable Jobs and WeXpats are prominent English-language platforms featuring caregiving roles with visa support. GaijinPot Jobs, NINJA Career, and Tokyo Hive are also commonly used by foreign workers. Japanese-language platforms like Rikunabi, doda, and Mynavi have the largest databases but require Japanese ability to navigate effectively.
Hello Work — Japan’s official government employment service
Hello Work is Japan’s free, government-run employment service. It maintains a large database of verified jobs, including caregiving positions with visa guidance. Major cities have dedicated centers for foreign workers — Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya all have Employment Service Centers for Foreigners offering multilingual support. Even if your local branch lacks foreign language staff, the Hello Work Internet Service provides 24-hour online access to nationwide listings. This is one of the most reliable and safe channels available — use it.
Networking and community
Do not underestimate the power of community. Joining online forums or social media groups for caregivers or expats in Japan can lead to direct referrals and honest employer reviews from people who are actually doing this work. Current workers often share insights about specific employers that you cannot find anywhere else.
Before you accept any job offer — check these things
This is the most important section of this post. Before signing anything, verify the following with your potential employer:
Salary — the exact monthly amount, including base pay and any allowances. Bonuses — when they are paid and how they are calculated. Holidays — how many paid days you receive. Healthcare — confirm they enrol you in Japan’s health insurance system. Location — exactly where you will be working.
Here is an important technique I want to share: after you receive the job offer and attend the interview, ask the company to confirm the job offer details again. Go through the key points — salary, conditions, responsibilities. If they agree without hesitation, that is a good sign. If they try to correct or change what was previously offered, that is a serious red flag. Walk away from any employer who changes the terms of your offer when you ask for confirmation.
What I would do differently if I were starting today
Honestly — if my visa situation were good today, I would not choose caregiving at all. That is my real answer, and I think it is important to say it.
But if I did choose caregiving again, I would make one significant change: I would attend a caregiver college and graduate before entering the workforce. Having the kaigo fukushi qualification from the beginning means entering the industry at a higher salary level, with better career options, and with the ability to bring family to Japan sooner. The path through college is longer — but the destination is significantly better.
Whatever path you choose — commitment is essential. Caregiving is not a job you can do halfway. The patients, your colleagues, and Japan’s caregiving system all require your full presence. Go in committed, or do not go in at all.
The job is out there. The question is whether you are truly ready for it. 🇯🇵
Want to know how to actually pass the SSW exam first? Read How to Pass the SSW Caregiving Exam in Japan — My Real Study Method.
Wondering what the salary looks like after you get hired? Read Here’s My Actual Payslip as a Caregiver in Japan — The Numbers Might Surprise You.
Ready to understand all the requirements before applying? Read I Applied for a Caregiver Job in Japan — Here Are the Real Requirements Nobody Lists.
Not sure about the SSW visa process? Read How to Apply for the SSW Visa in Japan — A Step by Step Honest Guide.
“For more context about foreigners living and working in Japan read Why Foreign Workers Have Become Essential to Japan’s Elderly Care System.”
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