JAPAN JOBS
GUIDE 2026

Companies hiring foreigners with visa sponsorship, relocation support, and English-friendly workplaces

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Overview

The 2026 Landscape

Across Japan's employer landscape in 2026, two signals matter most for overseas applicants: (1) an explicit willingness to handle immigration (visa sponsorship or clear visa/relocation support) and (2) strong evidence that English can be your day-to-day working language - or at least that "English-first" roles exist at scale. The companies in this report fall into three practical clusters.

How We Evaluated
Each company was evaluated across two core axes: work-visa sponsorship/support and English-friendliness (English sufficient for many roles). Evidence is weighted toward primary sources - official careers pages, job postings, and FAQs - supplemented with specialist job boards (TokyoDev, Japan Dev) when primary sources are silent.
Three Clusters

High-Confidence English-Forward: Sony, HENNGE, PayPay, Mercari, Mujin. These employers explicitly discuss visa sponsorship AND English as a working language on their own careers pages. Sony and HENNGE are the most unambiguous - Sony plainly states Japanese is not required because work is conducted in English, while HENNGE's mid-career page states English is the official company language.

Visa Yes, Language Role-Dependent: Bandai Namco Studios, SAFEHOUSE, Rapyuta Robotics. These firms do sponsor visas but English sufficiency depends on the specific position. Bandai Namco provides interpretation support but also offers Japanese courses "to help members conduct their work," indicating language demands vary by team.

Visa Ambiguous or Japanese-Heavy: Polygon Pictures, Shibunkaku, DeNA. Visa support is either ambiguous or the language bar is notably higher. Polygon's application form requires N1/native-level Japanese for many tracks and explicitly states they are not hiring remotely from overseas. DeNA's sampled postings require smooth Japanese communication.

Quick-Reference Comparison
Company Sector Visa English OK? Relocation
Sony Electronics / Entertainment ✔ Explicit Flights + moving + JP courses
HENNGE SaaS / Cloud Security ✔ Explicit Flights + JP lessons
PayPay Fintech / Payments ✔ Role-dep. ✔ Many roles Apt (6wk) + flight + allowance
Mercari E-Commerce / Marketplace △ Role-dep. Flight + shipping + temp housing
Rapyuta Robotics Cloud Robotics ✔ Role-dep. ✔ Official lang. Visa + relocation (per posting)
Mujin Industrial Robotics ✔ Most roles Flight + shipping + temp housing
Bandai Namco Game Development △ Mixed teams Flight + temp housing + bank help
Wizcorp Game Development △ JP often req. Language tutoring
Polygon Pictures CG Animation ✔ Role-dep. ✘ N1 for many Not specified
DeNA Internet / Gaming ✔ Role-dep. △ JP expected Not specified
SAFEHOUSE Animation / Creative ✘ N2+ required JP lessons (workload-dep.)
Digital Hearts Game Localization / QA △ Role/pair dep. Not specified
Shibunkaku Art Dealer / Auctions ✘ N1 required Not specified
Synthesis: Best Picks for English-Forward Visa Sponsors

If you want the clearest English-first signal, Sony and HENNGE are the most unambiguous. Sony plainly states Japanese is not required because work is conducted in English and covers visa expenses plus relocation fees; it also offers fully subsidized Japanese courses before you start. HENNGE's mid-career site states English is the official company language, and a representative posting describes "Smooth Japan Relocation" with flights, visa sponsorship, and Japanese lessons - turning "international-friendly" into a concrete logistics commitment.

If your priority is a detailed relocation checklist (visa + housing + flight), PayPay and Mercari stand out because they publish itemized relocation support pages. PayPay lists visa sponsorship, temporary apartment, flight ticket, relocation allowance, and interpretation support (with the caveat that eligibility is position-specific). Mercari's "Work in Japan" page similarly lists visa sponsorship, airfare, temporary housing, shipping, and settlement support including post-arrival help with resident registration, bank account, and phone setup.

In robotics/automation, Mujin presents one of the most actionable combinations: a relocation package covering visa sponsorship, flight, shipping, temporary housing, and housing help - plus an application flow that explicitly says Japanese is not mandatory on most openings. Rapyuta Robotics has a strong English signal (official company language), but visa sponsorship is best treated as role-dependent since the most explicit "visa and relocation support" language appears at the individual posting level rather than as a company-wide policy.

Key Takeaway
The strongest "English-forward + visa support" picks are Sony, HENNGE, PayPay, Mercari, Rapyuta Robotics, and Mujin - they explicitly discuss working in English and describe visa/relocation support on their own careers pages. Creative-industry employers tend to be a "visa yes, Japanese often required" zone.
Section 01

English-Forward Companies

These companies explicitly state English is sufficient for many roles. The strongest "apply from abroad + visa sponsorship + English-forward" signals in Japan's 2026 market.

🎧
Sony
Electronics • Entertainment • Tokyo

Multinational electronics and entertainment group. Unusually explicit on their careers page: "Japanese language skills are NOT required, as your work will be conducted in English" and "covers expenses associated with obtaining a Japanese working visa, plus relocation fees" including flights and moving services. Sony also offers fully subsidized Japanese language courses before you begin work in Japan (for incoming full-time hires). One of the clearest single-source statements in Japan's 2026 hiring market. Roles emphasize STEM or STEM-related degrees.

Roles: Software Engineering, Data Science, Project Management, R&D/Engineering
Visa Sponsorship Flights Covered Moving Services Pre-Start Japanese Courses English - Japanese Not Required
🔐
HENNGE
SaaS • Cloud Security • Tokyo (Shibuya)

B2B cloud security SaaS company. Job postings are direct: "Fluency in English (Japanese is not required)" for software engineer roles. Relocation support explicitly includes flight tickets, visa sponsorship, and Japanese lessons. HENNGE also values cover letters as part of their hiring process -they've published content on crafting strong applications for international candidates.

Roles: Software Engineering (Go/Web Dev), Backend/Platform, UI/UX Design
Apply: Careers | Mid-Career (English) | Example Posting (includes coding challenge)
Visa Sponsorship Flight Tickets Japanese Lessons English - Japanese Not Required
đŸ’ŗ
PayPay
Fintech • Mobile Payments • Tokyo

Japan's largest mobile payment platform (60M+ users). One of the most structured relocation packages in Japan's startup scene. Publicly lists visa sponsorship, temporary housing, flights, relocation allowance, and translation/interpretation support on their careers site. Also publishes specific role lists where "Japanese is not required" for many engineering openings. Note: relocation support applies to specific positions -confirm with recruiter.

Roles: Backend, Mobile (iOS/Android), Platform, Cloud Infrastructure, Security, SRE/QA, UI Design
Visa Sponsorship (role-dependent) Temp Apartment (6 weeks) One-Way Flight Relocation Allowance Translation/Interpretation Support Japanese Boot Camp
Section 01 (continued)

English-Forward Companies

đŸ“Ļ
Mercari
E-Commerce • Marketplace • Tokyo (Roppongi)

Japan's biggest marketplace app. Their dedicated "Work in Japan" relocation page explicitly includes visa sponsorship and support, a one-way flight ticket, shipping of belongings from overseas, and temporary accommodation for your first month. They also provide a settling-in service covering bank account setup, phone, and ward registration. Language policy is role-dependent -Japanese and English are both used internally, but some roles are published with English-only job descriptions.

Roles: Backend, Mobile, Security, Corp Engineering, cross-functional roles
Visa Sponsorship & Support One-Way Flight Ships Belongings Temp Accommodation (1 month) Moving Allowance Settling-In Help (bank, phone, registration)
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Rapyuta Robotics
Cloud Robotics • Tokyo

Cloud robotics platform for warehouse automation. Their own culture content explicitly states "the official language in the company is English." TokyoDev listings confirm: roles flagged as "No Japanese required." Visa sponsorship is best treated as role-dependent - the most explicit "visa and relocation support" language appears at the individual posting level (Workable links) rather than as a universally visible policy on the main careers page. Shortlist roles that explicitly list visa/relocation support in the posting, then confirm scope (COE/visa fees, flights, housing) during recruiter screens.

Roles: Robotics Software Engineering, Backend, Cloud/Perception Engineers, Control Systems
Visa + Relocation (per posting) English Official Language Confirm scope with recruiter
🤖
Mujin
Robotics • Industrial Automation • Tokyo (Koto-ku)

Industrial robotics and autonomous warehouse automation. Their application form explicitly states "Japanese language is not mandatory on most openings," which is a strong English-forward signal. One of the most actionable relocation packages in robotics: visa sponsorship, flight ticket, relocation/shipping support, temporary housing support, and housing help in Japan. Their own blog describes relocation support covering flights (including families) and relocation expenses (limits apply). Also offers internship registration for future opportunities.

Roles: Software, Embedded, Hardware, Manufacturing, Robotics Engineering
Visa Sponsorship Flight (incl. families) Shipping Support Temp Housing Housing Help in Japan English - Japanese Not Mandatory
Section 02

Gaming & Creative Studios

These companies sponsor visas and have international teams, but language requirements vary by role. Check each posting carefully.

🎮
Bandai Namco Studios
Game Development • Tokyo

Major game development studio with a globally-oriented career site and detailed FAQ for overseas applicants. Will sponsor your visa and provides a comprehensive relocation package: flight, temporary accommodation, help finding long-term housing, and bank account setup assistance. Also provides interpretation and translation support between Japanese and English, which implies mixed-language teams where English can work day-to-day. Japanese lessons are offered as an ongoing benefit.

Roles: Game development (project-dependent: engine/tools, gameplay, tech art, etc.)
Visa Sponsorship Flight Temp Accommodation Bank/Housing Help Japanese Lessons English OK (mixed teams)
đŸ•šī¸
Wizcorp
Game Development • Tokyo (Remote-First)

Game development studio described as remote-first with a no-crunch policy. Visa sponsorship is mentioned in benefits, and TokyoDev confirms legal support for visa applications. However, current listed roles show "Conversational Japanese" as a requirement -English alone may not be sufficient for most positions. Also offers language tutoring in both Japanese and English as an ongoing benefit.

Roles: Game Engineering (Server, Programmer, Engine, Unreal)
Visa Sponsorship Language Tutoring (JP/EN) No Crunch Policy Conversational Japanese Often Required
đŸŽŦ
Polygon Pictures
CG Animation • Tokyo

Renowned digital animation studio (Transformers, Star Wars: Visions) with creators from across the world. Their application form collects visa-related information for "working visa procedures," implying involvement in the visa process -but they do not clearly promise sponsorship on the same pages. Important caveats: they explicitly state they are not hiring remotely from overseas (you must already be in Japan or able to relocate), and many roles require JLPT N1/native-level Japanese.

Roles: Modeler, Rigger, Animator, Lighting/Compositing, Technical Director, Unreal/Unity Developer, Tools Programmer
Visa Process Involvement (not clearly guaranteed) Japanese N1 Required for Many Roles Not Hiring Remotely from Overseas
🌐
DeNA
Internet • Gaming • Tokyo

Major internet company spanning games, entertainment, healthcare, and automotive. External job-board tagging (Japan Dev) claims visa support, but this is labeled "unverified" by the board itself -always confirm directly with the recruiter. Some postings emphasize English as a preferred skill, but the majority of job content is published in Japanese, and their benefits/welfare pages are Japanese-only. Approach with cautious optimism if you have some Japanese ability.

Roles: Data/Platform/Security Engineers, Business Development, Creators
Visa Support (unverified - ask recruiter) Japanese Often Expected
Section 03

Visa Sponsors (Japanese Required)

These companies explicitly sponsor visas, but Japanese language ability is required for most roles. English alone is usually not enough.

🎨
SAFEHOUSE
Animation • Creative Studio • Tokyo

"Visa sponsorship available" is explicitly stated on their careers page. However, multiple roles list business Japanese (JLPT N2+) as a requirement, and some specify native-level Japanese. English is used within the team, but Japanese is the primary working language. Japanese lessons are offered as a benefit, but subject to workload availability.

Roles: Real-time/Unreal Engine, entertainment production, creative roles
Visa Sponsorship Japanese Lessons (subject to workload) Business Japanese Required (JLPT N2+)
🔤
Digital Hearts
Game Localization • QA • Tokyo

Game-industry multilingual services: translation, linguistic QA, and customer support. Their recruiting site explicitly states "Assistance for visa applications... full support... for applicants... coming to Japan." However, whether English alone is sufficient depends heavily on the role and language pair -many positions involve Japanese-to-English or Japanese-to-other-language workflows where strong Japanese is a baseline requirement.

Roles: Translation/Localization PM, Game Translation (many language pairs), LQA, Customer Support
Visa Application Support Japanese Often Required (role/language-pair dependent)
đŸ–ŧī¸
Shibunkaku
Art Dealer • Auctions • Kyoto

Art dealer and auction house based in Kyoto -a unique non-tech option for bilingual candidates in the cultural sector. "VISA sponsorship" is explicitly listed in their benefits. However, the bar is high: requires both Japanese and English at "high standard (equivalent to JLPT N1)." Applications must include a CV in both Japanese and English.

Roles: Sales Consultant (art/books), Editor/Researcher (catalog content), Client Service/Auction Operations
Apply: Job Opening | Contact (dual-language CV required)
Visa Sponsorship JLPT N1 Required
Important Note on Language Requirements
Companies in this section are still worth knowing about if you have strong Japanese skills. Visa sponsorship combined with Japanese ability (JLPT N2+) significantly expands your options beyond tech-only roles into creative, localization, and cultural industries.
Section 04

How to Apply from Abroad

Practical workflow for landing a job in Japan as a foreigner.

Applying from Abroad Checklist
# Step Details
1 Verify visa eligibility per role Some employers state sponsorship is position-specific (e.g., PayPay). Confirm the role you're targeting is eligible for visa support before investing heavily in the process
2 Build a Japan-ready resume set Concise English CV for tech/global roles, but be prepared for bilingual submission where requested (e.g., Shibunkaku asks for CV in Japanese and English)
3 Write for ATS Use the JD's keywords, quantify outcomes, highlight shipped work (metrics, scale, users)
4 Strategic cover letter Some employers explicitly value a strong cover letter, especially when hiring internationally (HENNGE publishes content on crafting strong applications)
5 Treat COE as the critical path Japan's MOFA explains that presenting a COE makes visa and landing procedures smoother. Without COE, processing can take "several months" due to heavier documentation requirements. COE issuance commonly takes 1-3 months
6 Embassy visa stamp After receiving COE, visa processing at a Japanese consulate is typically about 5 working days from the day after application is received
7 Apply through primary channels Use the employer's own ATS first: Greenhouse (PayPay), Workable (Mercari, Rapyuta), Lever (Mujin), HERP (DeNA), or in-house portals (Bandai Namco Studios)
8 Prepare for assessments Structured selection steps are common in English-forward tech roles. Sony outlines application, eligibility verification, then interview. Other firms publish multi-step interview flows in postings
9 Budget for "arrival admin" Even when companies help, expect effort on post-arrival setup. Mercari explicitly lists settlement support items: resident registration, bank account, and phone setup. Ask what's covered and what's not
10 Use language learning as leverage Several employers provide Japanese lessons (HENNGE, Bandai Namco, Sony, PayPay) or reimburse instruction - this reduces role risk after you land and shows long-term commitment
11 Use authoritative references Plan using official sources (MOFA, JETRO, Immigration Services Agency) not social media summaries. See the COE section below for direct links
Best Job Boards for Foreigners
TokyoDev

Curated tech jobs from companies that sponsor visas. Best for developers.

Japan Dev

Tech-focused board with salary data and company reviews.

GaijinPot Jobs

Broader range: teaching, hospitality, marketing, and tech roles.

LinkedIn (Japan filter)

Filter by Japan location. Many international companies post here.

Typical Visa & Relocation Timeline
When Stage
Weeks 1-8 Application and interviews (2-4 rounds typical)
Weeks 8-9 Offer negotiation and acceptance
Weeks 9-12 COE preparation by employer
Months 3-5 COE issuance from Immigration (~1-3 months)
Month 5 Visa stamp at Japanese consulate (~5 working days)
Months 5-6 Travel planning + relocation
Month 6 Arrival in Japan + onboarding
What is the COE?
The Certificate of Eligibility (COE) is a document issued by Japan's Immigration Services Agency that verifies your intended activity and status of residence. Your employer applies for it in Japan, and once issued, it streamlines the visa application at your local Japanese consulate. COE issuance commonly takes 1-3 months and varies by region and season. Visa processing at a Japanese mission is typically about 5 working days from the day after application is received. Without a COE, visa processing can take "several months" due to heavier documentation requirements - this is why COE is treated as the critical path item in your relocation timeline.

Sources: MOFA Visa Portal | MOFA Working Visa | MOFA Processing Time | JETRO COE Process | ISA COE Form (PDF)
What About Japanese Language?
Many tech companies operate in English day-to-day. For non-tech roles, basic Japanese (JLPT N3+) significantly improves your chances. Even for English-first companies, learning basic Japanese shows commitment and helps your daily life in Japan.
Section 05

Ready to Make the Move?

Once you've landed a job offer, there's still a lot to figure out: housing, banking, phone plans, ward registration, and more. Settle Japan helps you navigate all of it.

Settle Japan - Relocation Support

Personalized guidance for moving to Japan. From visa strategy to finding your first apartment, get the help you need to make your move smooth.

Get Relocation Help
More Free Tools

Visa Diagnostic: Figure out which visa fits your situation - johnofjapan.com/visa-diagnostic.html

Japan Fit Quiz: Find the right prefecture for you - johnofjapan.com/japan-fit/

Start Here Assessment: Get personalized next steps - Settle Japan - Start Here

All Resources: Browse free tools and guides - johnofjapan.com/resources

A Note from John

I put this guide together because "companies hiring foreigners in Japan" is one of the most common questions I get. Every company listed here was verified against their official career pages. If you know of others I should include, DM me on Instagram.

Good luck with your job search. Japan is worth the effort.

John of Japan

johnofjapan.com • @johnofjapan

Guide compiled February 2026. Company hiring status changes frequently.
Always verify with official career pages before applying.