So I've been doing a ton of research on how I could entertain the idea of moving to Japan in the next three to four years. Currently I work as a CNC Machinist for a steel manufacturing company but I do not wield any kind of certificate or bachelor degree for it. I am fully aware that for a regular standard work visa that I would need a bachelor degree, however I also read that there is the Specified Skills Visa that I could potentially qualify for since machining is listed under one of the qualifying skills (and that I don't need a degree).
One of the stumps in my research that I've bumped into is trying to even find opportunities for a machinist in Japan with my limited Japanese skills (I am also aware that if I want to go for the specified skills visa that I will need to brush up on my fluency since there is an exam for it). I've seen a couple of posts on here that didn't really garner much information, so I guess my ultimate question is which path is much more feasible?
- Applying for a specified skills visa after (somehow) acquiring a job as a machinist
or
- Save up enough funds to start applying to Japanese language schools and move there on a student visa, picking up a part time job on the side to sustain myself since the visa allows work up to 28 hours a week
I'm aware that the latter wouldn't be a realistic way of becoming a resident (unless I get married), however the experience and the ability to study Japanese in Japan is also enough for me just as a student, especially if the former idea isn't the greatest idea.
Any feedback is appreciated, especially if anyone is there right now on the specified skills visa. Thank you!
by _briees