If you’re a Nigerian (or from any English-speaking country) and dreaming of moving abroad, Japan might not be the first place that comes to mind — but it should be. In this guide, I’m sharing my real-life journey on how I moved from Nigeria to Japan as an English teacher (Assistant Language Teacher – ALT), how much it cost me, and how you can do the same.
Let’s dive into the simplest, most affordable route to relocate to Japan with visa sponsorship — even if you’ve never considered Japan before!
🇯🇵 Why Japan?
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Japan is a stunning country with rich culture, safety, efficient systems, and surprisingly affordable cost of living. Yet, it remains underrated among Nigerians looking to “japa” (relocate). Many don’t know that Japan actively hires foreign English speakers — and that includes Nigerians!
If you’re looking for:
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- A high-paying, low-stress job
- Visa sponsorship
- Safe and clean environment
- Opportunities to save and grow
Then Japan might just be your perfect destination.
Happening now! Apply for teaching jobs in Japan here!
🧳 My Story: How It All Started
I was teaching in a federal primary school in Nigeria, living paycheck to paycheck, and dreaming of doing my master’s in public health. One day, my church youth leader casually asked, “Do you want to go to Japan?” and handed me a link to apply for jobs.
I applied to over 100 jobs on the website. After many rejections, I got an interview, landed the job, and received my Certificate of Eligibility (CoE). That was my ticket to apply for the Japanese visa — and the rest is history.
📝 How You Can Apply for Teaching Jobs in Japan (ALT Jobs)
Here’s how to follow my exact steps:
✅ Step 1: Go to the Right Website
Apply through: jobs.gaijinpot.com
This is Japan’s top job board for foreigners. You’ll find English teaching jobs, tech jobs, and other opportunities.
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✅ Step 2: Meet the Basic Requirements
- Be from an English-speaking country (Nigeria qualifies!)
- Hold a BSc or HND (in any field — even “sweepology” 😅)
✅ Step 3: Create Your Profile
- Upload your CV and cover letter (tailored to each job)
- Make your profile searchable by employers
💡 Pro Tip: Customize your CV for each role — e.g. have a separate one for kindergarten, high school, etc.
🛂 Visa Process: From Job Offer to Arrival in Japan
Once you’re offered a job:
- Company applies for your CoE (Certificate of Eligibility)
- When you receive the CoE (via email or courier), gather:
- Passport
- CoE
- Job offer letter
- Flight itinerary
- Submit these at the Japanese Embassy in Nigeria
✅ Visa Fee: ₦9,100
⏱️ Processing Time: As little as 2–3 days!
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✈️ What’s the Cost of Moving?
Here’s a breakdown of what I spent in 2023:
| Item | Cost (₦) |
|---|---|
| Visa | 9,100 |
| Passport | 60,000 |
| Flight Ticket | 750,000 |
| Pocket Money (for food & rent) | 500,000 |
| Total | ~₦1.3M to ₦2M |
No agency. No extra charges. Just me, the internet, and determination.
🏠 Life in Japan: Salary, Work, and Lifestyle
💰 Salary
- Monthly gross: ₦1M to ₦1.5M
- After tax: ₦900K+
- Rent: ~₦150K/month (fully or semi-furnished)
- Food: Very affordable (~₦20K/month if you cook)
📚 Job Details
- Role: Assistant Language Teacher (ALT)
- Hours: 8AM – 4PM, Monday to Friday
- Stress level: Very low
- Extra perks: Subsidized lunch, paid holidays
💡 Bonus Tips & FAQs
👉 Can I Apply Without Teaching Experience?
Yes. Most employers only require you to be fluent in English with a degree.
👉 Can I Go With My Family?
After your first year and with tax records, you can apply for a dependent visa for your spouse or children.
👉 Can I Move to Other Countries from Japan?
Yes! Many people use Japan as a stepping stone to Canada, Australia, or the US.
👉 Do I Need to Speak Japanese?
No — not for ALT jobs. But learning the basics is helpful.
👉 How Safe is Japan?
Japan is one of the safest countries in the world. You can forget your phone in a train and someone will return it.
🗣️ Final Words: Start Now, Don’t Wait!
Japan is one of the best-kept secrets for relocation. If you’ve been struggling to move to the UK, US, or Canada due to high costs or rejections, consider Japan. You can start with as little as ₦2 million or even less — and begin a new life abroad.
Ready to move to Japan? Start applying at jobs.gaijinpot.com today.
📲 Follow Nigerian in Japan on Social Media
Get updates, job tips, and more:
- TikTok: @nigerianinjapan
- Facebook: Nigerian in Japan
✍️ Got questions or want to collaborate?
Drop them in the comments.
