Thinking of moving to Japan via Language School - is this a good plan?
by Big_chungus0_0 on Apr 19, 2026
I’m a 24-year-old from India, and I’ve been seriously considering moving to Japan. I’d really appreciate some honest advice on whether my current plan makes sense.
My idea is to go to Japan on a student visa by enrolling in a Japanese language school. I’ve already been studying Japanese for a while, and I think I could reach around N5 level within a month or two with focused effort. My goal would be to improve my Japanese enough to eventually transition into a job and stay long-term.(Teaching or Recruitment)
A bit about my background:
-Bachelor’s degree in English Literature.
-Currently working as a US IT recruiter in India for past 1 year
One of my biggest concerns is finances. I don’t currently have significant savings, so I would likely need to take a student loan to fund my studies and move. That makes this decision feel pretty high-risk.
I’ve also thought about doing another degree, but starting a 3-4 year program at 24 doesn’t feel like the best option for me personally, as I’d be close to 28–29 by the time I finish.
So I guess my main questions are:
-Is going to a language school a viable path to eventually finding a job in Japan?
-Is taking a loan for this kind of plan too risky?
-Are there better or more practical alternatives I should consider?
I’m genuinely motivated to move to Japan and build a life there, but I want to make sure I’m not making a naive or financially risky decision.
Any advice, personal experiences, or reality checks would be really appreciated
Comments
by DpressdDmonVenerable on Apr 19, 2026
I would advise you to try for a work visa instead of student visa. As Japan is lacking manpower and needs foreign talent, it is best to search for a recruiter and come on work visa. There are multiple work visas available and generally company sponsors the whole cost. Student visa is expensive and takes time. Your work-life balance will be messed up. Study and pass JLPT N4 and work on your speaking skills. I too have applied for a work visa(ssw) and waiting for my COE.
by Big_chungus0_0 on Apr 19, 2026
I feel that applying directly for a work visa from India is quite challenging. There’s a lot of competition, and it seems difficult to even get shortlisted for interviews unless you already have strong Japanese skills or very specific in-demand experience.
I would not like to do a blue collar job. I would rather work as an English teacher or a Recruiter but even in the case of English-related roles like ALT or teaching, I feel the competition is quite high. Since I’m not a native English speaker, I’d likely be competing with many native applicants, which makes it harder to stand out and even get an interview.
That’s mainly why I was considering the student route to build my Japanese skills and improve my chances from within Japan.
by DpressdDmonVenerable on Apr 19, 2026
A simple google search will provide many agencies that can help you with the process. If you want to save money and time you can try it.
by shellinjapan on Apr 19, 2026
English teaching doesn’t require Japanese unless you work at a university (which would require further study to get a Masters, if not a PhD, and publications) or as a public school teacher (which would also require more study to get a Japanese teaching licence). Acquiring Japanese language skills won’t improve your chances of landing an ALT or eikawa job.
by Big_chungus0_0 on Apr 19, 2026
I totally agree with you but I feel like if I apply while being in the country that would improve my chances of getting the job rather than applying from India because I'm not even a native English speaker even tho I'm as fluent.
by NoobDeGuerra on Apr 20, 2026
Always ask yourself why should a local company hire you over a local applicant
by PinkMage on Apr 20, 2026
Where do you plan to apply for a loan? Why would they give you a loan if you're planning on leaving the country?
