How to Work and Immigrate to Japan as a Doctor?

Step 1. Qualify as a Doctor

A medical degree (typically an MD or equivalent) and specialty or subspecialty certifications may be necessary to work as a doctor in Japan. Post-graduate degrees, board certification, and specialty-specific training are all valid examples of such credentials in the medical field.

Step 2. Eligibility Verification

Suppose you want to immigrate to Japan as a doctor. In that case, you must verify your qualifications by contacting the Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare, submitting your curriculum vitae and academic records, and waiting for an evaluation. Your eligibility will be determined after the Ministry evaluates your credentials and language skills. You will hear back from them about your eligibility and next steps.

Step 3. Language Proficiency Test

Pass the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) at the N1 level to demonstrate your language skills. The index determining your fluency in Japanese fluency is N5-N1; while N5 is the easiest and first level you achieve, N1 is the hardest and last. Here is a useful understanding of the levels and the index of fluency:

Step 4. Residency Matching

The first step in arranging a medical residency is researching and comparing hospitals. Place, salary, reputation, and other factors should be considered. Meet with hospitals of interest, schedule interviews, and arrange meetings. Register with the Japan Residency Matching Program (JRMP) to begin the matching process.

Step 5. Residency Program

To become a part of a Japanese residency program as a doctor, you must first find one appropriate for your medical specialty. If you cut, the next steps are an interview, an offer letter, and a pairing process. Clinical rotations and supervised practice are included in the multi-year curriculum. A passing grade is required to practice medicine in Japan.

Step 6. Board Certification

After completing your residency, you must apply for board certification from the Japanese Association for the Accreditation of Medical Facilities. Doctors in Japan must obtain board certification. You must pass the Japanese Medical Specialty Board Exam after completing your residency program in your chosen specialty. Practice exams and study materials are part of the preparation process. When you become board-certified in Japan, you qualify as a specialist and can practice independently in various settings.

Step 7. Medical License Application

To practice medicine in Japan, doctors must apply for a medical license. An applicant must verify eligibility, gather necessary documentation, contact local medical authorities, submit an application, and possibly undergo additional examinations. The evaluation process includes background checks, and if successful, you will be granted a medical license. During the early stages of your medical career, you may be subject to practice supervision.

What is the Japanese Medical License Exam?

A foreigner who wishes to immigrate to Japan as a doctor is required to pass the Japanese Medical License Exam, a challenging and comprehensive test. Among the many steps necessary, taking a language test and passing the Japanese National Medical Practitioners Examination are prerequisites. The ability to speak Japanese fluently, preferably at the N1 JLPT level, is essential. Details and prerequisites for each exam may be different.

Can a Foreign Doctor Work in Japan?

Yes. Foreign doctors can work in Japan, But they must send their medical degrees to Japanese officials. They evaluate the documents and decide whether foreign doctors are qualified to work in Japan.

Are Doctors Well-Paid in Japan?

There is no doubt that doctors in Japan are generally well paid, with incomes varying depending on factors such as specialization, experience, and location. Salary levels tend to be higher for specialists and experienced workers.

Immigrate to Japan as a Doctor: Salary

You might ask, “How much does a doctor make in Japan in Yen?” Let’s see. The average salary of a doctor or physician in Japan is around 1,190,000 JPY. There is a salary range of 444,000 JPY to 2,040,000 JPY.

Can a US Medical Doctor Work in Japan?

Yes. By obtaining a Japanese medical license, US doctors can work in Japan. As part of this process, candidates must pass the Japanese National Medical Practitioners Examination, obtain employment, and meet visa requirements. An N1 JLPT level of proficiency in the Japanese language is vital.

Is Japan a Good Place for Doctors?

The answer depends on you and your preferences. Japan is one of the safest countries in the world, and it has the third biggest economy. The country is advancing and improving in every field and has become a leading country. In terms of medicine, it’s one of the best in the world, and doctors are needed. The job market is good for skilled doctors as well.

Doctor Jobs in Japan for Foreigners

What jobs are in demand in Japan for foreigners? Let’s look at them:

• Medical Practitioner
• Researchers in Medical Institutions
• Pharmaceutical Industry Positions
• Medical Consultant or Advisor
• English-speaking Medical Interpreter
• Clinical Trial Coordinator
• Medical Sales Representative
• Medical Writer or Translator
• Healthcare Administrator
• Medical English Teacher

Medical Residency in Japan for Foreigners

Foreign applicants for medical residency in Japan face intense competition and usually need to demonstrate advanced Japanese language skills. Different residency programs range from two to five years and include various medical fields. Tests of language competence and medical licensing exams are common requirements for international applicants. The Japanese healthcare system is well regarded for its high standards and intensive training for its citizens.

Living expenses may add up quickly, especially in major cities like Tokyo. Foreign nationals may have difficulty obtaining scholarships and other forms of financial aid. As a foreigner, you need devotion, language skills, and a commitment to meeting tough requirements if you want to do a medical residency in Japan.