Working in a Hotel: Job Descriptions and Required Residence Statuses

As the number of foreigners visiting Japan increases, there are job openings that require various language skills, not just English. This article introduces how foreigners can work in hotels and inns in Japan.

Note: Information about residence statuses is as of September 2024.

Background of Increasing Job Openings in Hotels and Inns

Recently, the number of tourists from overseas has been increasing. As a result, more companies in the hotel and Japan’s traditional inn industry want to hire staff who can serve customers in languages other than Japanese, such as English. Additionally, with the declining number of workers in Japan, there are more job openings for foreigners, such as those under the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) status.

Residence Statuses Required for Foreigners to Work in Hotels

The required residence status for foreigners to work in hotels varies depending on the job description.

Note: Those with residence statuses based on status or position, such as Permanent Resident (PR), Spouse or Child of Japanese National (SCJN), Spouse or Child of Permanent Resident (SCPR), and Long-Term Resident (LTR), can work in any job.​​​​​​​

Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services (ESI)

The Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services (ESI) status allows for jobs that require specialized knowledge or sensitivity. It can be used for specialized roles such as engineers, interpreters, designers, and marketers.

In the context of customer service, examples include service staff in hotels with interpreting duties, which often require language skills in Japanese and English. However, tasks like serving food or cleaning rooms alone are not recognized under this status.

[Conditions for Obtaining Residence Status]
A graduation qualification from a university, graduate school, or junior college in Japan or overseas, or a graduation qualification from a vocational school in Japan is required.

However, for foreign universities, graduate schools, or junior colleges, a certificate proving equivalence to a Japanese university graduation is necessary. Overseas vocational schools are not recognized.

If you do not meet the educational background criteria, 3 to 10 years of work experience is required.

Designated Activities No. 46

Designated Activities No. 46 is a residence status for international students who have graduated from a four-year university or graduate school in Japan and do not fall under the Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services (ESI) category.
In the case of hotels and inns, this status is required when the main job duties do not fall under the ESI category.

However, Designated Activities No. 46 has strict conditions for acquisition. To obtain it, you must meet the following conditions:

• Graduated from a four-year university or graduate school in Japan
• Scored N1 on the Japanese Language Proficiency Test or 480 points or more on the BJT Business Japanese Proficiency Test

Source: Immigration Services Agency of Japan, "Guidelines for 'Designated Activities' for Employment Support for International Students (Graduates of Japanese Universities)" *Japanese

Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) in the Accommodation Industry

The Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) status in the accommodation industry allows for roles such as front desk duties, planning, public relations, customer service, and restaurant services in hotels and inns.

The Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) status has two categories: Specified Skilled Worker (i) and Specified Skilled Worker (ii).

1. Specified Skilled Worker (i):
Can work in specific industrial fields
Residence period: Up to 5 years in total
Bringing family: Not allowed

2. Specified Skilled Worker (ii):
Can be a leader in specific industries
Residence period: No upper limit
Bringing family: Allowed

Note: If your main job in a hotel or inn's restaurant or kitchen involves cooking, you need to obtain the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) status for cooking. Be careful about this requirement.

Source: Immigration Services Agency of Japan, Specified Skilled Worker Support Site *Japanese

International Students Can Also Work Part-Time

International students can work part-time in hotels and inns. With permission for activities outside their residence status, they can work up to 28 hours a week. During long vacations, such as summer or spring breaks, they can work up to 8 hours a day.

Source: Immigration Services Agency of Japan, "Study Abroad - About Tuition and Living Expenses" *Japanese

From Application to Starting Work

Here are the steps for foreigners working in Japan to transfer to a job in a hotel or inn.

1. Apply for Job Openings

There are several ways to find a job in Japan:

• Use Hello Work
• Use foreigner-specific consultation desks
• Use job sites
• Register with staffing agencies

If you are having trouble finding a job or figuring out what kind of work you can do, registering with a staffing agency is one option. A staffing agency can introduce you to jobs that match your experience and skills.

🔎 Search for job openings on JOB JOURNEY

2. Attend Interviews

If your application documents pass the screening, you will attend interviews. Related article: Job Interviews in Japan: Tips for a Good Impression and Manners

3. Complete Procedures at the Immigration Bureau After Receiving a Job Offer

When you change jobs, you need to complete procedures at the Immigration Services Agency of Japan. The procedures vary depending on your situation, such as changes in residence status, so be careful.
For more detailed information: What foreigners should consider when changing jobs in Japan

4. Start Work

In most workplaces, there is a training period of a few days to a few weeks after starting work. There are many things to learn, such as job duties and specialized terms.

Always bring a notebook and pen to take notes. If you have any questions, ask your senior colleagues immediately.

In Conclusion

Currently, there are increasing job openings in customer service roles in hotels and inns in Japan. Many foreigners are excelling in these roles, utilizing their language skills in Japanese and English. Working in a hotel or inn allows you to experience seasonal events and cuisine, as well as unique aspects of Japanese culture. It is perfect for those who want to learn about Japanese culture.

The types of jobs you can do vary depending on your residence status, so be sure to check the conditions carefully when looking for a job.