From visa types and cultural tips to the cost of living and shipping your belongings, this guide breaks down everything you need to know for a smooth transition.
Whether you’re relocating for work, study, or adventure, we’ve got the facts to help you prepare.
Why Kiwis Are Choosing to Move to Japan
More and more New Zealanders are packing their bags for Japan, and the numbers back it up. In early 2025, 129,000 Kiwi citizens departed for Japan, reflecting a mix of long-term travellers, students, professionals, and families seeking something different.
By the end of 2023, 3,844 New Zealanders were officially residing in Japan, not counting dual citizens or temporary visitors. As Japan’s foreign population surpassed 3.7 million in 2024, the country has become increasingly international, creating more space for Kiwis looking to work, study, or explore.
What draws Kiwis in?
- Career opportunities in teaching, IT, hospitality, and research
- Working holiday visas available twice for those aged 18–30
- Renowned universities and language schools
- A modern, safe, and culturally rich lifestyle
- A growing international community in cities like Tokyo and Osaka
Whether it’s for professional growth or personal adventure, more Kiwis are choosing Japan as their next big move.
Visas and Documentation for New Zealanders
If you’re planning to relocate to Japan, you’ll likely need a visa, unless you’re just visiting short term.
Short stay (up to 90 days)
No visa needed for tourism or business, but you cannot work.
Long stay (over 90 days)
You’ll need one of the following:
- Working Holiday Visa: For ages 18–30; valid for 12 months. You can now apply twice, though there are work restrictions (e.g. no bar work).
- Work Visa: For teaching, IT, research, and other skilled professions. Requires a Certificate of Eligibility (CoE) from your Japanese employer.
- Student Visa: For those enrolled in universities or language schools.
- Digital Nomad Visa: Six-month stay for remote workers, allowing spouse and children to join.
You’ll need to prepare your passport, completed application form, photo, CoE (for most long-term visas), and proof of funds. The application must be submitted to the appropriate Japanese diplomatic office in NZ located in Auckland, Wellington, or Christchurch.
Visa fees: NZ$33 (single entry) or NZ$65 (multiple entry).
Processing time: Around 3–5 working days but apply early.
Lifestyle and Cultural Adjustments in Japan
Life in Japan is exciting but different. Here’s what to expect:
- Work Culture: Long hours, hierarchy, and group-oriented values.
- Living Spaces: Compact and efficient especially in cities.
- Transport: Reliable and punctual. Public etiquette is serious: no loud talking or eating on trains.
- Food: Diverse, fresh, and delicious. You’ll get familiar with chopsticks quickly.
Cultural differences (Japan vs New Zealand) include the importance of politeness, punctuality, and group harmony. You’ll bow instead of shaking hands and remove your shoes at the door. Even silence is seen as respectful communication.
While fewer than 30% of Japanese people speak English, especially outside tourist hubs, resources for English speakers are growing. Many expats use apps or join language classes to bridge the gap.
ADJUSTMENT TIPS: Be open, respectful, and curious. Join local or expat communities. Embrace the culture, it’s a key part of the experience.
COST OF LIVING: Living in Japan generally costs less than in New Zealand, especially when it comes to rent and food. Here’s how the two countries compare across common expenses:
Housing and Rent
- Japan: One-bedroom city apartment costs around 894 NZD per month.
- New Zealand: Equivalent rent is about 1,784 NZD – roughly double.
- Family-sized homes also follow this trend, with Japan offering significantly cheaper options.
Food and Groceries
- Japan: Monthly food expenses average 687 NZD.
- New Zealand: Food costs are higher, at approximately 900 NZD per month.
- Japan’s local produce and dining options tend to be more affordable.
Transport and Utilities
- Transport: Fairly similar – 232 NZD in Japan vs 240 NZD in New Zealand.
- Utilities: Slightly higher in Japan at 166 NZD, compared to 140 NZD in New Zealand.
Overall Monthly Costs
- Individual:
- Japan: 1,990 NZD
- New Zealand: 3,126 NZD
- Family of four:
- Japan: 4,815 NZD
- New Zealand: 7,104 NZD
SALARIES:
- New Zealand: Higher average net salary at 5,203 NZD per month.
- Japan: Lower average of 3,681 NZD per month.
- Despite the salary gap, Japan’s lower living costs offer better value in many areas.
ACCOMMODATION IN JAPAN: Securing a place to live in Japan is totally doable, even before you land.
Common options:
- Apartments (apaato): Affordable and small.
- Mansions (manshon): Larger, more modern flats.
- Share houses: Private rooms with shared kitchens/lounges.
- Furnished short-term rentals: Great for new arrivals.
Best foreigner-friendly sites include:
- OYO LIFE
- Oakhouse
- Real Estate Japan
- Social Apartment
You’ll need documents like a passport, CoE or visa, proof of funds, and sometimes a guarantor. Some platforms offer guarantor services or waive requirements for short-term leases.
Upfront costs (in some cases):
1–2 months’ deposit, 1 month key money (non-refundable), agency fees, and the first month’s rent.
Tip: Start short-term and switch to long-term housing once you’ve settled.
SCHOOLING & FAMILY CONSIDERATIONS: Yes, you can bring your family when moving to Japan. Visas are available for spouses and dependent children, valid for the same length as the main visa.
School options for children:
- International schools: English-medium, globally recognised curricula (IB, British, etc.), common in Tokyo, Osaka, and Yokohama.
- Local Japanese schools: Free and immersive. Language support may be available.
- Prep language schools: Great for teens preparing for university or public schools.
Healthcare is covered by Japan’s National Health Insurance, which your family can join upon registering at your local ward office.
SHIPPING YOUR BELONGINGS FROM NZ TO JAPAN: Shipping from New Zealand to Japan is straightforward with help from an international relocation expert like Crown.
Options:
- Full container: For whole households.
- Shared container: Cost-effective for smaller loads.
- Air freight: Fast, ideal for essentials.
Typical steps:
- Get a quote and home survey
- Pack and inventory (you or your movers)
- Complete export/import documents
- Ship and track your belongings
- Clear customs and receive delivery
What items can’t I bring into Japan?
Items like fresh food, some electronics, and certain medications may be restricted. Crown Relocations can provide a full customs guide.
Frequently Asked Questions About Moving to Japan
Yes, most New Zealanders will need a work, study, or dependent visa. Tourist visas are not suitable for long-term relocation.
Shipping typically takes 4–6 weeks door-to-door, depending on the port and volume of your shipment.
Items like fresh food, some electronics, and certain medications may be restricted. Crown Relocations can provide a full customs guide and help with documentation.
Major cities like Tokyo and Osaka can be costly, especially for rent. However, everyday costs such as food, transport, and utilities are often lower.
Yes, Crown Relocations offers end-to-end international moving services including professional packing, inventory handling, export documentation, and customs clearance support.
How Crown Relocations Can Help with Your International Move
As a global moving company, Crown Relocations New Zealand makes your overseas move simpler from start to finish.
Here’s what we offer:
- Tailored moving plans based on your timeline, needs, and shipment size
- Expert packing using specialist materials to protect even the most fragile items
- Door-to-door international removals with full shipment tracking
- Export documentation and customs clearance support for Japan
- Secure storage solutions in both New Zealand and Japan
- Relocation and settling-in services, including help finding accommodation, orientation advice, and cultural tips
- Pet relocation, so your furry family members can come along too
Crown has helped thousands of Kiwi families, professionals, and students move internationally, and their reputation for care, transparency, and personal support makes all the difference when relocating abroad.
Ready to make the move?
Relocating to Japan is an exciting step, whether it’s for career, study, or a change of pace. With the right support and planning, it can be smoother than you think.
If you’re considering moving overseas from New Zealand or specifically moving to Asia from New Zealand, send us an enquiry and let Crown Relocations guide you through every step of your journey.
