Nurse Jobs in Japan for Filipino Workers | LayagOFW.com
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Work abroad as a Filipino nurse in Japan

Working as an OFW Nurse in Japan offers a unique blend of professional growth and cultural experience. Japan's healthcare system is known for its advanced technology and high standards, providing an excellent environment for nurses to enhance their skills. The country faces a significant shortage of healthcare professionals due to its aging population, making it a prime destination for foreign nurses. However, the language barrier and cultural differences can pose challenges. Nurses are required to pass the Japanese Nursing Examination, which includes proficiency in the Japanese language. The work environment is highly structured, with a strong emphasis on teamwork, precision, and patient care.
Keypoints:
- High demand for nurses due to aging population
- Advanced healthcare system with modern technology
- Requirement to pass Japanese Nursing Examination
- Language proficiency in Japanese is essential
- Structured work environment with emphasis on teamwork
Demand: Very high
Japan's aging population and declining birth rate have created a significant shortage of healthcare professionals, increasing the demand for nurses.
Growth: High
The continuous advancements in healthcare technology and the ongoing need for specialized care for the elderly contribute to the growth of nursing opportunities in Japan.
Job Overview

Job Description
- Provide comprehensive patient care, including administering medications, monitoring vital signs, and assisting with daily activities.
- Collaborate with doctors and other healthcare professionals to develop and implement patient care plans.
- Maintain accurate and detailed patient records, ensuring all documentation is up-to-date and compliant with healthcare regulations.
- Educate patients and their families on health management, disease prevention, and post-treatment care.
- Assist in medical procedures and surgeries, ensuring all equipment is sterilized and prepared.
- Conduct regular health assessments and screenings to identify potential health issues early.
- Manage and operate medical equipment, ensuring proper usage and maintenance.
- Provide emotional support and counseling to patients and their families during difficult times.
- Participate in continuous professional development and training to stay updated with the latest medical practices and technologies.
- Ensure compliance with Japanese healthcare standards and protocols, maintaining a high level of patient safety and care.
Qualifications
- Must be a licensed nurse with a valid nursing degree from an accredited institution.
- Minimum of 2-3 years of nursing experience, preferably in a hospital or clinical setting.
- Proficiency in the Japanese language, both written and spoken, is essential for effective communication with patients and colleagues.
- Must pass the Japanese Nursing Licensure Examination (JNLE) to practice as a nurse in Japan.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills to interact effectively with patients, families, and healthcare teams.
- Ability to adapt to the Japanese healthcare system and work culture.
- Must possess a valid work visa or be eligible to obtain one for employment in Japan.
- Demonstrated ability to handle stressful situations and provide high-quality patient care under pressure.
- Commitment to continuous learning and professional development in the nursing field.
- Basic knowledge of Japanese healthcare laws and regulations to ensure compliance and high standards of care.
How it works

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Requirements

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- Must hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree from a recognized institution.
- Should have passed the nursing licensure examination in the home country.
- Completion of a nursing program that meets the standards set by the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare.
- Additional coursework in Japanese healthcare practices and systems is advantageous.
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- Minimum of two years of clinical experience in a hospital or healthcare setting.
- Experience in specialized fields such as geriatrics, pediatrics, or critical care is highly valued.
- Previous experience working in multicultural environments is beneficial.
- Demonstrated ability to handle high-pressure situations and provide quality patient care.
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- Proficiency in Japanese language, particularly in medical terminology, is mandatory.
- Must pass the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) at N4 level or higher.
- Additional certification in Japanese language courses specific to healthcare is preferred.
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- Completion of a pre-departure orientation program focusing on Japanese culture and healthcare system.
- Participation in on-the-job training programs provided by the employing Japanese hospital or healthcare facility.
- Continuous professional development through workshops and seminars on advanced nursing practices.
- Training in the use of electronic health records (EHR) systems commonly used in Japan.
Compensation

Filipino nurses working in Japan often receive various benefits to support their transition and living expenses, including:
- Health Insurance: Mandatory coverage for medical expenses.
- Housing Allowance: Optional, often provided to help with accommodation costs.
- Transportation Allowance: Optional, covers commuting expenses.
- Overtime Pay: Mandatory, compensation for extra working hours.
- Paid Leave: Mandatory, includes annual leave and sick leave.
- Retirement Benefits: Mandatory, contributions to pension plans.
- Trainee salary of nurse in Japan
- ₱80,000.00
- Minimum salary of nurse in Japan
- ₱150,000.00
- Maximum salary of nurse in Japan
- ₱250,000.00
- Note: job offers and specific salary vary from job orders and agencies. Be sure to ask these information during the interview.
What you need to prepare

Applicants are required to present their original documents for verification of documents before forwarding the résumé to the employer.
Document | Description | Mandatory | Agency Assistance |
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Passport | Valid for at least 6 months from the date of departure. | Yes | No |
Visa | Specific work visa for nurses, usually the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) visa. | Yes | Yes |
Employment Contract | Signed contract with the Japanese employer. | Yes | Yes |
POEA Clearance | Clearance from the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration. | Yes | Yes |
Medical Certificate | Health clearance from an accredited medical facility. | Yes | No |
NBI Clearance | National Bureau of Investigation clearance for overseas work. | Yes | No |
Japanese Language Proficiency Certificate | Proof of passing the required Japanese language proficiency test. | Yes | Yes |
TESDA Certification | Certification from the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority. | Yes | Yes |
Training Certificates | Proof of completion of required training programs. | Yes | Yes |
OWWA Membership | Membership with the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration. | Yes | No |
Living in Japan

Living in Japan, like anywhere else in the world, can be expensive if you don’t know how to be practical and manage your finances well. Upon researching, it is possible to live affordably in Japan if you learn to look at the right places. Here’s a sample conservative computation of basic living expenses you will need to spend your money on.
Standard Living
Expense Category | Tokyo (PHP) | Osaka (PHP) | Kyoto (PHP) | Fukuoka (PHP) |
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Housing (1BR Apartment) | 40,000 | 36,000 | 40,000 | 32,000 |
Utilities | 2,500 | 1,800 | 2,000 | 1,500 |
Internet | 500 | 400 | 400 | 350 |
Food | 6,000 | 5,500 | 5,500 | 5,000 |
Transport | 1,000 | 1,050 | 1,100 | 1,000 |
Health/Gym Membership | 1,000 | 900 | 950 | 850 |
Miscellaneous | 2,500 | 1,800 | 2,000 | 1,500 |
Total | 53,500 | 47,450 | 51,950 | 42,200 |
Living Frugally
Expense Category | Tokyo (PHP) | Osaka (PHP) | Kyoto (PHP) | Fukuoka (PHP) |
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Housing (Dorm) | 20,200 | 15,200 | 17,300 | 15,500 |
Utilities | 1,800 | 1,500 | 1,600 | 1,200 |
Internet | 400 | 350 | 350 | 320 |
Food | 5,000 | 4,500 | 4,500 | 4,000 |
Transport | 800 | 850 | 900 | 800 |
Health/Gym Membership | 800 | 700 | 750 | 650 |
Miscellaneous | 2,000 | 1,500 | 1,600 | 1,200 |
Total | 31,000 | 24,600 | 27,000 | 23,670 |
How to save money in Japan:
- Cook at Home: Eating out can be expensive. Cooking at home not only saves money but also allows you to eat healthier.
- Use Public Transport: Japan's public transportation system is efficient and cost-effective. Avoid taxis and use trains and buses instead.
- Shop at Discount Stores: Stores like Don Quijote and 100-yen shops offer a wide range of affordable products.
- Buy in Bulk: Purchasing items in bulk from stores like Costco can save you money in the long run.
- Take Advantage of Seasonal Sales: Japan has several sales throughout the year. Plan your shopping around these times to get the best deals.
- Use Energy Efficiently: Be mindful of your electricity and water usage to keep utility bills low.
- Rent a Smaller Place: Opt for a smaller apartment or share a living space to reduce housing costs.
- Avoid Unnecessary Subscriptions: Cancel any subscriptions or memberships you don't use regularly.
- Utilize Free Entertainment: Explore parks, museums, and cultural events that are free or have minimal entry fees.
- Learn Basic Japanese: Knowing the language can help you find better deals and avoid tourist traps.
Culture of work

Cultural Norms and Expectations in the Workplace
- Respect for Hierarchy: Japanese workplaces have a clear hierarchical structure. Respect for seniority and authority is crucial.
- Punctuality: Being on time is highly valued. Arriving early for shifts and meetings is expected.
- Teamwork: Collaboration and collective decision-making are integral. Individual achievements are often seen as part of the team's success.
- Attention to Detail: Precision and meticulousness are essential in all tasks, reflecting the high standards of Japanese healthcare.
- Politeness and Formality: Politeness in communication and interactions is a cultural norm. Formal language and behavior are expected, especially in professional settings.
Tips on Adapting to the Work Environment
- Learn the Language: Invest time in learning Japanese to communicate effectively with colleagues and patients.
- Understand Cultural Norms: Familiarize yourself with Japanese customs and workplace etiquette to integrate smoothly.
- Build Relationships: Establish good relationships with colleagues by participating in team activities and social events.
- Be Open to Feedback: Accept constructive criticism positively and use it to improve your performance.
- Stay Organized: Keep meticulous records and manage your tasks efficiently to meet the high standards expected.
Legal Rights and Employment Laws in Japan

In Japan, employment laws are designed to protect workers' rights and ensure fair treatment in the workplace. The Labor Standards Act (LSA) is the primary legislation governing employment conditions, including working hours, wages, and safety standards. The LSA mandates a maximum of 40 working hours per week and requires overtime pay for additional hours. Employers must also provide at least one day off per week.
The Minimum Wage Act ensures that all workers receive a fair wage, with rates varying by region and industry. The Equal Employment Opportunity Act prohibits discrimination based on gender, and the Child Care and Family Care Leave Act allows employees to take leave for child-rearing and family care responsibilities.
Japan also has strict regulations regarding employment contracts. Employers must provide written contracts outlining job duties, working conditions, and compensation. Termination of employment requires just cause, and employees are entitled to notice or severance pay.
Foreign workers in Japan are protected under the same laws as Japanese nationals. However, they must have the appropriate visa and work permits. The Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act governs the entry and stay of foreign nationals, ensuring they have the legal right to work in Japan.
Keypoints:
- Labor Standards Act (LSA): Governs working hours, wages, and safety standards.
- Maximum Working Hours: 40 hours per week, with mandatory overtime pay.
- Minimum Wage Act: Ensures fair wages, varying by region and industry.
- Equal Employment Opportunity Act: Prohibits gender discrimination.
- Child Care and Family Care Leave Act: Allows leave for child-rearing and family care.
- Employment Contracts: Must be written and outline job duties, conditions, and compensation.
- Termination: Requires just cause, with notice or severance pay.
- Foreign Workers: Protected under the same laws, must have appropriate visas and work permits.
- Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act: Governs the entry and stay of foreign nationals.
Important Contacts and Resources for OFWs in Japan

Important Contacts and Resources for OFWs in Japan
Philippine Embassy in Tokyo
- Address: 5-15-5 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo 106-8537, Japan
- Phone: +81-3-5562-1600
- Email: tokyo.pe@dfa.gov.ph
- Website: Philippine Embassy in Tokyo
Philippine Consulate General in Osaka
- Address: 8F Imperial Tower, 1-1-1 Umeda, Kita-ku, Osaka 530-0001, Japan
- Phone: +81-6-6910-7881
- Email: osaka.pcg@dfa.gov.ph
- Website: Philippine Consulate General in Osaka
Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA)
- Address: 5-15-5 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo 106-8537, Japan
- Phone: +81-3-5562-1600 ext. 231
- Email: owwa_japan@yahoo.com
- Website: OWWA Japan
Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO)
- Address: 5-15-5 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo 106-8537, Japan
- Phone: +81-3-5562-1600 ext. 231
- Email: polo_tokyo@yahoo.com
- Website: POLO Japan
Social Security System (SSS) Representative Office
- Address: 5-15-5 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo 106-8537, Japan
- Phone: +81-3-5562-1600 ext. 235
- Email: tokyo@sss.gov.ph
- Website: SSS Japan
Pag-IBIG Fund Representative Office
- Address: 5-15-5 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo 106-8537, Japan
- Phone: +81-3-5562-1600 ext. 234
- Email: tokyo@pagibigfund.gov.ph
- Website: Pag-IBIG Fund
Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)
- Address: 1-6th Floor, Nibancho Center Building, 5-25 Nibancho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 102-8012, Japan
- Phone: +81-3-5226-6660
- Website: JICA
Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department
- Emergency Number: 110
- Non-Emergency Number: +81-3-3501-0110
- Website: Tokyo Metropolitan Police
Japan Helpline
- Phone: +81-570-000-911
- Website: Japan Helpline
Tokyo English Life Line (TELL)
- Phone: +81-3-5774-0992
- Website: TELL Japan
These contacts and resources are essential for OFWs in Japan to ensure their safety, well-being, and access to necessary services.
Frequently asked questions

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LayagOFW is a platform that connects job seekers with legitimate, DMW-licensed recruitment agencies. By creating a free profile, you can showcase your skills and experience to agencies searching for qualified candidates. LayagOFW simplifies the process by letting agencies discover and shortlist you for job opportunities abroad.
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Yes! LayagOFW is 100% free for job seekers. There are no hidden fees or charges.
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We only work with DMW-licensed recruitment agencies that are authorized to process overseas employment. This ensures that all job opportunities you are shortlisted for are verified and legitimate.
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Once you’ve created an account, complete your profile by providing information about your skills, work experience, and preferred job destinations. After that, just wait for notifications if an agency shortlists you for a position.
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