For Filipinos seeking to expand their horizons and pursue career opportunities abroad, Japan stands as an enticing destination. With its vibrant economy, renowned technological innovations, and rich cultural tapestry, Japan offers a wealth of experiences for those willing to embark on the journey. Among the avenues available for Filipinos keen on working in Japan is the trainee program—a pathway to gain valuable insights into Japanese industries while immersing oneself in the unique culture.
However, for Filipinos considering such opportunities, understanding the financial aspect is paramount. The salary of a trainee in Japan not only reflects the economic realities of living and working in the Land of the Rising Sun but also plays a pivotal role in shaping the overall experience for participants.
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.
Understanding Trainee Salaries for Filipinos in Japan
The information presented in this article comes from an OFW YouTuber based in Japan. His channel name is called Japan for Da-Win, and in this video, he talks about what his salary is as a trainee in Japan. He included details such as wage per hour, over time pay, gross pay and more. If you want to watch the full video, then click on the link below:
In Japan, trainee salaries are calculated per hour, unlike in the Philippines where it’s per day. Various factors influence a trainee’s pay, including the following:
- Job category
- Visa type
- Company
- Workplace location
For example, a vlogger shares earning 1055 yen per hour, which roughly converts to 390.25 pesos. The standard workday can be either 7.5 or 8 hours, depending on the company. So, a trainee might earn around 2,927.625 pesos per day for a 7.5-hour workday.
Trainees typically work five days a week, Monday to Friday, with occasional Saturdays based on the company’s schedule. Each company has its own policies, so it’s important for trainees to understand these details before starting their work.
Sample Payslip
Trainee payslips in Japan offer a comprehensive overview of the individual’s earnings, deductions, and net pay for a given month. They typically provide essential details, including the number of days worked, overtime hours, deductions, and the final net pay. Let’s explore these components through the lens of our vlogger’s payslip:
- Number of Days Worked: The payslip indicates that the vlogger worked 22 scheduled working days in the month. However, out of these, they were absent for 2 days, resulting in a total of 20 actual working days.
- Basic Wage and Overtime: The vlogger’s basic wage, also known as the hourly wage, is listed as 161,550 yen. Additionally, they earned 53,850 yen through overtime work, with regular working hours totaling 150.00 and overtime hours amounting to 40.00.
- Total Payment: The payslip reveals a total payment of 215,400 yen, comprising both the basic wage and overtime earnings. This gross pay reflects the vlogger’s total compensation for their work during the month.
- Overtime Rate: Calculating the vlogger’s overtime rate at 1,348.26 yen per hour provides a deeper understanding of their additional earnings beyond regular working hours.
- Equivalent in Pesos: Converting the gross pay of 215,400 yen to Philippine pesos yields approximately 79,698 pesos for the month. This conversion allows for easy comparison and understanding of the vlogger’s earnings in familiar currency.
Deductions
- Health insurance premium: 9,509 yen
- Welfare pension insurance: 17,385 yen
- Employment insurance premium: 1,292 yen
- Income tax: 4,340 yen
- Resident tax: 3,800 yen
- Advanced payment (uniforms, etc): 690 yen
- Rent: 20,500 yen
- Common service fee: 6,000 yen
- Utility costs: 6,600 yen
- Electric bill: 2,167 yen
Deduction total: 72,283 yen.
Utility costs cover expenses for replacing damaged items in the apartment, with no additional charges. It’s worth noting that utility costs tend to fluctuate throughout the year, being more expensive in winter due to increased heating expenses, while becoming cheaper during summer when air conditioning costs are lower compared to heating.
In Philippine pesos, the deductions amount to approximately 26,744.71 pesos.
Net Pay
Therefore, after accounting for all deductions, the net pay for the particular month of the vlogger amounts to 143,117 yen, equivalent to 52,963 pesos. This final take-home pay reflects the culmination of their efforts and serves as a tangible reward for their dedication and hard work.
It’s important to note that trainee salaries in Japan can fluctuate depending on the number of days worked. There are months when their earnings may be lower, particularly during periods with extended vacations. In Japan, trainees typically have no work, no pay policy during long vacations, which occur three times a year.
These long vacations typically span one week, including both Saturday and Sunday. While the salary deduction during these holidays may be significant, it provides trainees with a valuable opportunity to rest, rejuvenate, and spend quality time with their families.
In essence, while fluctuations in salary are inevitable, trainees in Japan embrace the rhythm of work and rest, understanding that these moments allow them to rest and recharge.
The vlogger’s advice is straightforward: if you’re comfortable with your salary in the Philippines and value being with your family, staying put might be the best choice. However, if you’re earning minimum wage, Japan could offer better opportunities. It’s a simple equation: stay if you’re content, explore abroad if you’re looking for more.
In summary, understanding the salary dynamics for trainees in Japan is crucial for Filipinos considering work opportunities abroad. From hourly wages to deductions and net pay, navigating the financial landscape involves weighing factors like job category, visa type, and company policies. While Japan offers the promise of higher earnings and professional growth, the decision to work abroad should consider personal values and the desire to be close to family. Ultimately, the journey as a trainee in Japan is about more than just financial gain—it’s about embracing new experiences, learning, and self-discovery along the way.