As the demand for skilled professionals in fields like Autocad continues to rise, many Filipino workers are eyeing opportunities abroad, particularly in Japan. However, navigating the intricacies of Japanese visa requirements can be daunting, especially for those unfamiliar with the process. In this guide, we aim to shed light on the specific visa pathways available to Filipino Autocad experts aspiring to work in Japan, providing clarity and insights to streamline the application journey.
With Japan’s economy evolving and embracing technological advancements, there’s a burgeoning need for skilled workers in various technical domains, including computer-aided design (CAD) and drafting. Filipinos, renowned for their proficiency in English, adaptability, and strong work ethic, are increasingly sought after to fill these positions. Yet, despite the demand, the visa application process remains a crucial hurdle for many aspiring OFWs (Overseas Filipino Workers). Understanding the visa options and requirements is essential for Filipino Autocad professionals looking to seize career opportunities in Japan’s dynamic job market.
Disclaimer: The information posted here is based on the personal experiences shared by the OFW in the video below. Please let this post serve as a guide only. If you have specific questions, you may ask the OFW by commenting on their video on their accounts.
A Guide for Filipino Autocad Professionals Seeking Employment Opportunities
The information presented in this article comes from a YouTube video from Leo Amoroso, an OFW vlogger based in Japan. If you want to watch the full video, then click on the link below:
The vlogger addresses a query posed by one of his viewers in a recent video. The viewer, a licensed civil engineer with prior experience both abroad and in the Philippines, seeks guidance regarding potential visa options for a job opportunity in Japan as an Autocad engineer. Despite lacking a JLPT certification, the viewer wonders whether they might qualify for an engineer visa or a trainee visa from their prospective employer in Japan. Additionally, they inquire about the required level of Japanese language proficiency to effectively communicate with Japanese engineers. The vlogger reassures the viewer that either visa type could potentially be granted, depending on circumstances.
Three Types of Visas
The three types of visas mentioned by the vlogger in relation to being an Autocad operator in Japan are as follows:
- Trainee visa
- Engineer visa
- SSW visa
Trainee Visa:
The Trainee Visa, or “Trainee”, is designed for individuals who wish to undergo training or technical internships in Japan. While this visa type may be suitable for gaining practical experience and skills enhancement, it typically comes with certain limitations, such as a maximum duration and restrictions on the type of work allowed. Autocad operators may be eligible for this visa if they intend to participate in a training program or internship related to their field.
Engineer Visa:
The Engineer Visa, or “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services”, is intended for individuals with specialized skills and knowledge in technical or professional fields. Autocad operators, particularly those with relevant qualifications and experience, may qualify for this visa category. It allows holders to engage in professional work related to their expertise, including Autocad design and drafting, within Japanese companies.
Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) Visa:
Introduced to address Japan’s labor shortages in specific industries, the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) Visa provides opportunities for foreign workers with certain skills and experience levels to work in Japan. Autocad operators may be eligible under this visa category, depending on demand and the specific skill set required by Japanese employers. The SSW Visa offers a pathway for skilled workers to contribute to Japan’s workforce while providing opportunities for career advancement and stability.
Trainee visas, Engineer visas, and SSW visas all cater to Autocad positions and Autocad operators, contingent upon the company’s job offer. For instance, a company may propose a trainee visa for an Autocad position, specifically for an Autocad operator; however, an Engineer visa remains a viable option as well. The recruitment agency can provide clarification on the available visa options. It is advisable to inquire with either the employer or the recruitment agency regarding the specific visa type being offered.
Salary of Autocad engineer in Japan
- Salaries for Autocad positions correlate with visa types
- Engineer visa: Salary around 210,000 yen or higher
- Trainee visa: Salary around 150,000 yen
- SSW visa: Salary between 185,000 to 200,000 yen
- JLPT proficiency crucial for visa qualifications
- Basic Japanese language knowledge essential
- Starting from scratch in Japanese learning
- Progression through JLPT levels (N5 to N3)
- Shortcut available to jump to N3 exam
- Cautions against rushing the process
- Dedicated studying required for each JLPT level (3 months each)
- Possibility of obtaining certification at each level
- Higher proficiency (N2 and N1) enhances job prospects
- Employers offer higher salaries for advanced Japanese skills
- Continual language learning crucial for foreign workers
When considering potential salaries for Autocad positions in Japan, it’s essential to understand how they correlate with different visa types. Typically, if the offered salary is around 210,000 yen or higher, it’s likely that the position qualifies for an Engineer visa. On the other hand, if the salary hovers around 150,000 yen, the position is more inclined towards a trainee visa.
For those aiming for an SSW visa, salaries can fall within the range of 185,000 to 200,000 yen. It’s noteworthy that proficiency in Japanese, as assessed by the JLPT, plays a crucial role in visa qualifications. While it’s challenging to attain a level of proficiency that matches that of native Japanese speakers, even basic knowledge of the language is invaluable. The journey to proficiency often starts from scratch, akin to starting at Grade 1 for foreigners learning Japanese.
The process typically involves progressing through the JLPT levels, starting with N5 and advancing to N4, then N3. While there’s a shortcut available to jump straight to the N3 exam, the vlogger cautions against rushing the process. He shares his own experience of initially failing the N3 exam due to being unprepared. Achieving proficiency and obtaining certificates through the JLPT exams requires dedicated studying, typically around three months for N5, another three months for N4, and three to six months for N3. Overall, it may take approximately a year to attain N3 certification if one opts for the shortcut method, though obtaining certification at each level is possible.
Knowing what Japanese visa you can get as an Autocad operator requires knowing all types and what requirements you need to submit. Each type of visa mentioned above has its own distinct opportunities and salary ranges, which in turn, vary depending also on the nature of the position and the employer’s offer. It is also crucial to note that proficiency in the Japanese language plays a significant role in visa eligibility and salary potential.