FOREIGN TEACHING CREDENTIALS IN JAPAN
Foreign Teaching License and Japan Visa | Working as a Teacher
If you hold a teaching license issued abroad, we help you understand the distinction between Japanese teaching qualification requirements and immigration permission to work as a teacher.
Standard extension: ¥44,000 (tax incl.) and up. Government fees and expenses are additional where applicable.
Phone: 9:00–18:00 Japan time. Online inquiries are accepted nationwide and from abroad.
A foreign license does not automatically become a Japanese teaching license
Japan’s Ministry of Education states that Japanese teacher licensing requirements apply to relevant teaching positions. A prefectural board of education may assess foreign credentials through the relevant teacher qualification examination and, in some cases, grant a corresponding Japanese license.
Instructor residence status is a separate immigration matter. Permission to reside and teach under immigration law does not itself waive school licensing requirements.
Credentials and employer information
Two separate sets of requirements
| Requirement | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Japanese teaching license | Qualification for a role requiring a Japanese teacher license |
| Foreign credential assessment | Potential basis for a corresponding Japanese license |
| Special teaching license | Possible alternative channel for experienced specialists |
| Instructor residence status | Immigration permission for qualifying educational activities |
Important points for employers and teachers
Foreign credential assessment
The prefectural board of education is a key source for confirming whether overseas qualifications may support a Japanese license. Prepare documents about course content, qualification and teaching experience.
Special teaching licenses
Japan has special teaching license mechanisms for certain knowledgeable or experienced professionals. Exact assessment is decided under the applicable rules and by the competent authority.
International school employment
Teaching-license requirements can differ according to whether an institution is an ordinary school, registered miscellaneous school or another facility. The immigration question must also be reviewed.
Immigration evidence
Diplomas, teaching licenses and documented teaching experience are reviewed in the context of the applicable Instructor requirements for the role and institution.
Application process
Review eligibility
Check school status, duties, immigration status and credentials.
Prepare documentation
Confirm contracts, applicant records and school materials.
Apply and follow up
Prepare the relevant application and respond to requests for further documents.
Professional fees
| Service | Fee (tax included) |
|---|---|
| Certificate of Eligibility (COE) | ¥110,000 and up |
| Change to Instructor status | ¥110,000 and up |
| Standard extension (without major changes) | ¥44,000 and up |
| Extension after changing employer | Quoted individually; standard site price from ¥110,000 |
Frequently asked questions
Can I teach in Japan using only a US teaching license?
Not automatically. The proposed school and role determine Japanese qualification requirements, and immigration eligibility must be considered separately.
Does Instructor status replace a Japanese teacher license?
No. Immigration permission and professional teaching qualifications are distinct.
Can a Japanese prefecture assess my overseas license?
The Ministry of Education provides for possible assessment through a prefectural board of education. Ask the relevant board for the specific procedure.
Can I start the visa process while licensing is being checked?
The sequence depends on the position and the requirements; the employer should confirm both before arranging a start date.
Related information
NATIONWIDE IMMIGRATION SUPPORT
Planning to hire or work as a teacher in Japan?
Masunobu Kawagoe Administrative Scrivener Office can review the proposed role, school classification and application materials. Contact us before setting a firm work start date.