Is it okay if I can’t speak Japanese during the interview?

It depends on your status of residence, but it is possible to take the interview even if you’re not comfortable with Japanese.
If you prepare according to your own level, you can approach the interview with confidence.

1. Specified Skilled Worker
・An interpreter or staff member is often present, so you can take the interview even if you’re not comfortable with Japanese.
・It helps if you can briefly introduce yourself and explain your reasons for applying in Japanese.
For the Specified Skilled Worker program, your “desire to work” and “honest attitude” are valued more than your Japanese proficiency.

2. Technical Intern Training Program / Employment for Skill Development
・You can take the interview even if you’re not comfortable with Japanese.
・Interpretation support is often available.
During the interview, emphasis is placed on your willingness to work diligently and your ability to follow rules.

3. Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services
・Many interviews are conducted without an interpreter, so the ability to communicate in Japanese is emphasized.
・It’s a good idea to prepare in advance so you can explain your self-introduction and reasons for applying in Japanese.

It’s important to demonstrate a “willingness to communicate” and to “ask for clarification when you don’t understand.”
CROSSY GLOBAL.jobs provides support for pre-interview preparation and responding in Japanese during the interview.