-For Working Holiday Visa holders: No, you do not need a work visa.
-For Student Visa holders: To be able to work on a student visa, you have to make sure that you get the “permission to engage in activity other than that permitted in status of residence previously granted,” when you enter Japan. You will need to fill out the form at Japan Customs or Meko can also assist our students to fill out the form in advance to ensure a smooth process. Click here to reach student support.
-Yes, we accept students of all levels. If you’re completely new to Japanese, you will be arranged to join our Basic Japanese courses, in which teachers will go through the fundamental knowledge, such as Hiragana and Katakana.
-However, in order to make the most out of your journey, we strongly recommend our students to at least get familiar with Hiragana and Katakana before school starts.
-Learning intensity is depending on your purpose of study. Generally speaking, as long as you maintain a good attendance rate and try your best to learn, you will pass. But for most students, passing the course is not their ultimate goal. If you’re looking to pursue higher education or employment in Japan, you need to do better than passing.
-In conclusion, Meko’s learning intensity gives you the flexibility to learn at your own pace or to meet higher expectations.
While most of our language teachers are proficient in English, not all of them are completely fluent. As a result, classes are primarily conducted in Japanese to foster an authentic local atmosphere in the learning environment.
Rest assured that we always have English-speaking staff on campus, ensuring that you won't encounter any communication issues.
Some essentials include: Cash, Emergency Credit card, All-season clothing, your favorite books in your native language, a power adapter if needed, extra chargers and a lightweight backpack for school. We also recommend you to bring at least one pair of comfortable shoes, as you’ll likely go from A to B on foot.
Keep in mind that you won’t be able to apply for a Japanese credit card after 6 months of staying, so please bring enough cash with you. If you’re planning on using an international credit card, make sure you will be able to top up your credit card balance wirelessly in Japan.
We also suggest you bring clothing according to your intended purpose in Japan. If you’re looking to work, whether it's part-time or full-time, it's a social norm to wear semi-formal clothing. You don’t have to wear suits, but shorts and tank tops are definitely considered inappropriate for the workplace.And no hats in class please.
We recommend that you bring at least 200,000 yen, including the train fee upon arrival, the purchase of household items for a week, and food expenses.
The simplest method is, prior to your departure; create an account at a bank that has a branch in Japan, such as Citibank. You can withdraw cash at a Japanese branch or ATM.
Passing through Japanese customs is a standard procedure in general. However, there's one important aspect to prepare for if you intend to work part-time with a student visa.
During the customs process, you'll have the opportunity to complete the work permit application. This application is officially known as the 'Application for permission to engage in activity other than that permitted under the status of residence previously granted.' It's an essential step if you intend to engage in part-time work while studying in Japan.
You also have the option to complete the form before arriving in Japan. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions or concerns.
It is not mandatory but we highly recommend you to learn at least Hiragana and Katakana, this is the foundation of Japanese and you will be able to make the most out of classes and daily encounters.
Not everyone in Japan understands and is able to communicate in English. Although most people are patient and try their best to help foreigners, the language barrier is definitely something to be prepared for.
DO’S
-Keep it to the left side when walking, driving, riding or standing on the escalator
-Smoke in designated areas ONLY
-Hang on to your rubbish
-Keep your volume as low as possible on public transportation
-Take off your shoes when required
DON’TS
-Don’t tip
-Don’t walk while eating
-Don’t take up priority seat on public transport if you don’t need it
-Don’t stick chopsticks in rice
-Don’t snap photo of strangers without permission
-Try not to blow your nose in public