Hello! I'm at a crossroads in life and would appreciate some guidance on my options for moving to Japan. I've researched a few possible routes and listed the pros and cons, but I’d love to hear any advice or insights from those with experience.
Some background:
- Bachelors in business and computer science but no full-time experience
- No JLPT but I should be able to learn in the meantime while life planning (I know chinese)
- Working holiday visa is not available to my country
- JET Program
- Pros: Structured program, support with housing and other logistics
- Cons: Limited free time for travel, I have no teaching experience, and not particularly social—worried about burnout. Applications are closed, so I'd have to wait until next year. Also not sure about my chances of getting in, as I'm introverted and not the most outgoing person, which might not align with what they look for in a teacher
- J-Find visa + part-time work (e.g. konbini job)
- Pros: More flexibility, time to travel, and the option to do Worldpackers for a working holiday visa-like experience
- Cons: Less structure, need to secure accommodation independently. Probably need to know Japanese for part time jobs. Not much info or support out there too as it's relatively new.
- Student visa (language school)
- Pros: Flexible schedule
- Cons: School attendance and tuition fees
- Applying for entry level jobs
- Pros: More stable, potential career growth
- Cons: Requires Japanese proficiency, and work culture may be undesirable
I'm not too concerned about money (I don’t want kids), but I really want to experience life in my favorite country. I don’t have a set path in life yet, so I feel like I have nothing to lose, no dependants either except for my cat.
Would appreciate any advice, thank you in advance!
by salm0no