MMoving to Japan

Moving to Japan as a Software Engineer

  • April 30, 2025

I am currently a mid-level Software Engineer at a Tier 1 MNC and holding offers from FAANG and similar companies. I am planning to take an internal transfer to Tokyo/Osaka in a couple years after clearing JLPT N2 (will try for N1 as well). My question is for the people who followed a similar trajectory, did it turn out okay or did you realise there were things that could have been done better?

Apart from that, based on the current market conditions of the IT industry, will applying directly to a position in Japan be a feasible alternative (as compared to an internal transfer)? It will be really helpful if someone can share their experience, it will help me plan my next 2 years in a better manner. Thanks!

by thirsty-altt69

3 comments

  1. I did a transfer for my company.

    When I first transferred I got US pay and it was amazing. After my “contract” was up, I was moved to the Japanese branch office. I took about a a 35% pay cut at that point and lost a few of my “us team benefits”.

    Taking a pay cut is pretty normal unless your team moves you here by their choice. When I transferred while at first I was on contract I then needed to apply for the open role if I wanted to stay.

    Also getting N2/N1 will be VERY difficult in 2 years, unless you are treating it also as a full time job.

    There is nothing wrong with setting the goal. Just know with a transfer there is a VERY high chance for a significant pay cut unless they opt to move you there.

  2. My Experience:
    As a non-Japanese speaker, getting interviews was very limited. It took me nearly two years to finally land a software engineering role as an English speaker. However, I’m not fully satisfied with the compensation—I’m currently compromising on that just to gain a few years of experience living in Japan.

    My Advice:
    Start applying now rather than waiting to pass the JLPT. Adjusting to an English-speaking work environment is much easier, and you’ll gain valuable insights about Japanese society.
    Also, use a PPP (Purchasing Power Parity) calculator to compare your current compensation with the cost of living in Japan. This can help you make a more informed decision about whether moving here is the right choice for you.

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