How to Work a Part-Time Job as a Ride-share Driver (2025)

Finding a part-time job in Japan can be one of the most rewarding experiences for foreign residents and students. It’s a splendid way to not only earn extra income, but also to drastically improve your Japanese and earn valuable work experience. 

In 2025, Japan will continue to open more work opportunities for foreigners, from restaurants and convenience stores to professional driving and rideshare jobs, the latter of which is what I want to bring to your attention. This guide will walk you through the exact steps you need to take to find a part-time job in Japan, and how to apply for one of the most in-demand options: rideshare driving with Nihon Koutsuu.

1. Do Research on Visa Requirements and Work Permissions

Before applying for any job, the first step is to check your visa type and work eligibility.

Different visa categories have different rules:

• Student Visa (留学ビザ): You can work up to 28 hours per week with a work permit (資格外活動許可).
  
• Dependent Visa (家族滞在): You can also apply for permission to work part-time.
  
• Permanent Residents, Long-Term Residents, and Spouses of Japanese Nationals usually have no work-hour restrictions.

Action Step: Visit your nearest Immigration Bureau (入国管理局) or check the Immigration Services Agency of Japan website to confirm your work conditions. Make sure to apply for the 資格外活動許可 before starting your job.

2. Find Out What Kind of Part-Time Job You Want

Think about what kind of job suits your skills, lifestyle, and Japanese level.

Common part-time jobs for foreigners in Japan include:

• Convenience store staff (コンビニスタッフ)
  
• Restaurant or café staff
  
• Hotel or ryokan assistant
  
• English conversation teacher
  
• Delivery or rideshare driver

Action Step: List your skills and Japanese level (e.g., JLPT N3, N4). Choose jobs that fit your schedule and transportation access.

3. Improve Your Japanese Communication Skills

Even basic Japanese ability can open many more opportunities. Knowing how to greet customers, handle simple instructions, and read basic kanji can make your work smoother and more enjoyable.

Action Step:

• Practice daily conversation using free apps or language exchange partners.
• Focus on polite expressions (keigo) used in customer service.
• If possible, aim for JLPT N3 or higher for better job options.

4. Search for Job Opportunities Online and Offline

You can find part-time job listings for foreigners through several reliable channels:

・Job sites: GaijinPot Jobs, Baitoru, Indeed Japan, TownWork

・Language schools or universities: Career support offices often share listings for international students

・Local communities: LINE groups, Facebook pages, and job boards

・Company partnerships: Some organizations directly connect foreign residents with verified employers (like our rideshare program)

Action Step:

Create a simple Japanese résumé (rirekisho) and prepare a short self-introduction in Japanese. Then start applying through at least three different job sources.

How to become a Ride-share Driver

In this section, I’d like to introduce you to a new and very lucrative option. If you’re looking for a flexible, high-paying, and foreigner-friendly part-time job, consider joining our Rideshare Driver Program in collaboration with Nihon Koutsuu (日本交通), one of Japan’s most respected transportation companies.

Through this program, qualified foreign residents can legally work as rideshare drivers under full training and support.

Benefits include:

• 2500+ salary per hour
• Flexible working hours
• Comprehensive training
• Opportunities to explore Tokyo and nearby cities
• Performance-based bonuses

Requirements:

・Must have own car

・Driving license in Japan (AT or MT) for more than 1 year

・JLPT N2 or higher

Send an email to rs@ziplus.jp to schedule a free orientation.

Working part-time in Japan is more than just earning money, it’s a way to grow, connect, and experience Japanese society firsthand. By following these steps and improving your skills, you’ll open many doors for your future career.

And if you’re ready to take the next step, our Rideshare Program with Nihon Koutsuu offers one of the most flexible and foreigner-friendly job options in Japan.

Apply now to start your journey as a professional rideshare driver and experience a new side of working life in Japan!

If you do not have a Japanese driver’s license yet, learn more about how to convert your foreign driver’s license through gaimen kirikae, or if you want to get a Japanese driver’s license through other means, you can read how to take the license from scratch at a Japanese driving camp!