Before you commit money
Most common mistakes
7 traps people fall into when moving to Japan, and what to do instead.
- See Visas & rules
Mistake
Quitting a job before the COE is issued
Do this instead
Keep working until your Certificate of Eligibility arrives, then give notice.
- See Cost planner
Mistake
Relying on part-time work to pay tuition
Do this instead
Pay tuition from savings, because part-time income can't count toward proof of funds.
- See Language school planner
Mistake
Choosing the cheapest school without checking reviews
Do this instead
Compare reviews and published graduate outcomes before you pay a deposit.
- See Japanese & JLPT
Mistake
Expecting an office job at N4–N3
Do this instead
Aim for N2. Most Japanese employers expect it for office roles.
- See Visas & rules
Mistake
Going over 28 hrs/week of part-time work
Do this instead
Stay within the 28-hour weekly limit that comes with a student visa.
- See Official links
Mistake
Paying agents who promise guaranteed jobs
Do this instead
No one can guarantee a job or a visa. Check official sources first.
- See Language school planner
Mistake
Budgeting for 1 year when N2 takes 1.5–2 years
Do this instead
Plan your costs for the full 1.5–2 years it usually takes to reach N2.