Flexible and legal ways to earn income online while studying in Japan
Foreign student working on laptop in Japan
📌 Know Your Visa Limitations
If you’re studying in Japan on a student visa, you need special permission to work—online or offline. Apply for the “Permission to Engage in Activity Other Than That Permitted” (資格外活動許可) to legally work up to 28 hours a week during school and 40 hours during holidays.
Student visa guidelines for working in Japan
💻 1. Freelancing Online
Use your writing, design, coding, or translation skills to offer freelance services. Popular sites include:
- Upwork
- Fiverr
- CrowdWorks (Japan)
- Lancers (Japan)
Freelancing platforms on a laptop screen
🎥 2. YouTube & Content Creation
Share your experience studying in Japan on YouTube or TikTok. Once you grow your audience, you can earn from ads, brand deals, and affiliate links.
YouTube creator filming a vlog in Japan
✍️ 3. Online Tutoring
Teach English or your native language on platforms like:
- Italki
- Preply
- HelloSensei
- AmazingTalker
Online language tutor teaching English
🛒 4. Selling Digital Products
Design templates, digital art, or e-books and sell them on sites like:
- Gumroad
- Etsy
- Booth.pm (popular in Japan)
Digital planner template on screen
🖥️ 5. Remote Jobs & Microtasks
Try remote data entry, social media moderation, or survey jobs. Start with:
- Remote OK
- We Work Remotely
- Craigslist Tokyo
Remote worker student checking online job board
💰 6. Affiliate Marketing & Blogging
Create a blog about Japan life, travel, or language learning and monetize with:
- Google AdSense
- Amazon Japan Affiliate
- Rakuten Affiliate
Student writing a blog about Japan
🧾 Do I Need to Pay Taxes?
If you earn online while living in Japan for over a year, you’re subject to Japanese taxes. Consult your school or local tax office during tax season (March–April).
✅ Final Tips for Success
- Start with your strengths—writing, design, or speaking.
- Stick to legal working hours.
- Track your earnings and hours.
- Focus on creating real value, not just chasing money.
Focused student with coffee working online
🔎 Summary Table
| Type | Platform | Skill Level |
|---|---|---|
| Freelancing | Upwork, Fiverr, Lancers | Intermediate |
| Tutoring | Italki, HelloSensei | Beginner |
| Content Creation | YouTube, TikTok | Creative |
| Digital Products | Etsy, Gumroad | Beginner |
| Remote Work | Remote OK, Craigslist | Intermediate |
| Blogging | WordPress, Affiliate Networks | Long-term |