Hey, so I might be getting an unexpected offer for a role in the greater Tokyo area (one of the bases near Kanagawa). I’ve been looking semi-seriously at roles in Japan for several months and am interviewing for a high paying GovCon role that looks like a great fit.
For some background, I’ve traveled to Japan a few times now and have done some research on moving. I’ve compiled some information and to-do lists like rental sites, medical info etc. While I won’t need it for the job, I’ve also studied Japanese for a while and can survive some basic social scenarios.
I don’t have a lot of obligations at home in the U.S. currently. My lease is month-to-month, my cheap car is paid off, I have negligible debt and respectable savings, I have a list of what belongings are coming with us, and my SO of several years is ready and willing to go with me (we would get legally married at the drop of a hat if needed to live abroad) I assume I would be on SOFA and not a regular visa).
I’ve poked around the wiki but I wanted to ask if anyone has any advice or experience going to Japan on SOFA along with some random questions:
* Any GovCon folks have any general tips on moving to Japan?
* I’ve checked some of the real estate sites offering rentals, I see some properties specifically reference leases for military folks (I assume this is good). But I’m worried about getting stuck with a lease if my contract implodes or ends
* If anyone has GovCon experience, what were your benefits and health care like? I will likely be supporting my SO for a while so her care, potential kids down the road are a concern
I appreciate any general input, I really want to do this but I’ve been expecting it to take 1 yr+ to find the right opportunity so I’m a little bit on edge potentially facing a job offer sooner than expected.
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by oneronin