The Complete Guide to Moving to Japan from the UK

Moving from the UK to Japan is an exciting yet complex journey that requires careful planning. Whether you’re relocating for work, study, or a long-term stay, understanding the visa process, cost of living, cultural differences, and practical logistics is essential. This guide covers everything you need to know, from securing the right visa to adjusting to Japanese life, ensuring a smooth transition.

Visa Options & Requirements

Short-Term Stay

British citizens can visit Japan visa-free for up to 90 days for tourism, business (excluding paid activities), and short-term study. For longer stays or employment, a visa is required.

Long-Term Visa Options

Work Visa – Issued for employment in Japan, requiring a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) from an employer.
Student Visa – For those enrolling in educational institutions, also requiring a COE.
Spouse Visa – For spouses of Japanese citizens or permanent residents.
Working Holiday Visa – Available for UK nationals aged 18-30, allowing work and travel in Japan for up to one year.

For official details and application procedures, visit the Embassy of Japan in the UK.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Japan varies significantly depending on the city. Here’s a comparison of average monthly expenses:

Single Person: ¥131,139 (£863), excluding rent
Family of Four: ¥463,169 (£3,048), excluding rent (Numbeo)

Sample Costs:

Expense	Tokyo Avg. Cost
Rent (1-bed apt, city center)	¥146,232 (£966)
Loaf of bread	¥200
Liter of milk	¥180
Dozen eggs	¥250
Monthly transport pass	¥10,000
Taxi starting fare	¥500

More data is available on Numbeo.

Housing & Registration

Finding an Apartment

Key Money: Non-refundable gratuity to the landlord (usually 1-2 months’ rent).
Guarantor System: A guarantor (Japanese national or company) is often required.
Foreign-Friendly Options: Some agencies specialize in foreign tenants.

Residence Registration

Once you arrive in Japan, register at your local city hall within 14 days.

住民票 (Jūminhyō) – Proof of residence required for banking, utilities, etc.
My Number Card – A national ID for taxation and public services.

Banking & Finances

Opening a Bank Account

Major banks accommodating foreigners include:

Mizuho
MUFG
Sumitomo Mitsui
Japan Post Bank

Required Documents:

Residence card
Passport
Proof of address

Managing Finances

Use Wise or Revolut for international money transfers.
Compare currency exchange rates at banks and exchange centers.

Working in Japan

Job Market Overview

Popular industries for foreigners:

Tech & IT (software engineering, AI, data science)
English Teaching (ALT, eikaiwa schools)
Engineering & Manufacturing
Finance & Consulting
Healthcare

Work Culture Basics

Hierarchy Matters: Respect for seniority is key.
Punctuality: Always be on time.
Indirect Communication: Reading between the lines is essential.

For in-depth job-hunting advice, check our resources.

Language & Culture Tips

While not mandatory, learning Japanese makes daily life easier.

Essential Etiquette

Bowing: Standard greeting and sign of respect.
Gift-Giving: A common courtesy when visiting someone.
Punctuality: Being late is considered rude.

Language Learning Resources

Apps: Duolingo, Memrise, Anki
Courses: Rosetta Stone, JapanesePod101
Language Schools: Attending a language school can ease the transition—read more in our guide on language schools in Japan.

Common Challenges & How to Overcome Them

Culture Shock

Language barriers – Join language exchange groups.
Social norms – Observe and follow local etiquette.
Homesickness – Engage in expat communities.

Mistakes to Avoid

Visa Management - Track renewal deadlines.
Housing Pitfalls – Understand key money and guarantor systems.
Job Etiquette – Research workplace expectations.

Conclusion

Relocating from the UK to Japan is a thrilling yet intricate process. By preparing in advance—securing the right visa, budgeting wisely, understanding cultural norms, and learning some Japanese—you can make your transition smoother.

For more in-depth insights, check out our related guides on mastering the Japanese job interview and language schools.

Need personalized tips? Join our community for expert advice on thriving in Japan!