What is the recommended Japanese language proficiency level required for employment?

It varies depending on the job description and status of residence, but N4 to N2 or higher is generally recommended.
You can choose job openings that match your Japanese proficiency and work while continuing to study as needed.

1. Specified Skilled Worker (Recommended: N4 level or higher)
・Can generally understand everyday conversation
・Can follow simple instructions and warnings
・Can read hiragana, katakana, and some simple kanji
→ It’s reassuring to be able to communicate at a basic level in the workplace

2. Technical Intern Training Program / Employment for Skill Development (Guideline: N5 level upon entry)
・Can understand simple greetings and instructions
→ You can continue Japanese language education after entering the country and aim for the N4 level
→ It is possible to improve your Japanese skills step by step while working

3. Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services (Guideline: N2 or higher)
* Depending on the job type, N1 may be required
・Can understand meetings and explanations
・Can write emails and reports in Japanese
・Can communicate using honorifics and business Japanese
→ Since the work is primarily office-based, a high level of Japanese proficiency is required

* The required Japanese language level varies depending on the workplace and job type