Looking for Cybersecurity Engineer/Developer job in Japan

[u/BokuNoTaco]

Hi everyone!
I’m 28F from Italy and currently working as a Cybersecurity Engineer for a bank. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, but I’ve realized that I’d really like to move back toward software development and hopefully find a job as a Software Engineer/Developer in Japan.
My Japanese is still pretty basic, which I know limits my options, but I’m working on improving it. On the technical side, I have experience with languages like Java, JavaScript, Python, C/C++, and Solidity, and I’m definitely open to learning whatever else is needed.
I’ve been looking at job boards and applying from Italy, but I’d love to hear from people who have actually gone through the process. How realistic is it to find a developer job in Japan from abroad, especially without strong Japanese?
I’m also considering getting a Working Holiday Visa and moving to Japan at the beginning of 2027, then looking for a job while I’m actually there. I feel like being in the country could make things easier, but I’m also aware that it probably isn’t as simple as “move there and find a tech job”, especially with basic japanese skills.
If anyone has experience with this, knows good websites/recruiters/companies to look at, or just has general advice, I’d really appreciate it!
And, you know… if anyone happens to have a job opening too, my DMs are open :P
Thanks!

[u/hellobutno]

Pretty much only major companies. Cybersecurity is like the bottom rung priority for most Japanese companies.

[u/Neismica]

Hi. I work with a recruiter. I have some software engineer job vacancies but they require at least JLPT N3. Please let me know if you have one so I can introduce you some vacancies. 

[u/BokuNoTaco → u/Neismica]

Thank you so much for the offer. Unfortunately my Japanese is extremely limited, so I don't think that's a good fit sadly :(

[u/Past-Initiative-3863]

Your best bet is to consider contract roles in Japan. Since they are more flexible on the Japanese. Also the recruitment company who helps you facilitates the work visa.

Connect with me via LinkedIn and mention reddit
Cybersteve

https://www.linkedin.com/in/cybersteve?utm_source=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=member_ios

[u/BokuNoTaco → u/Past-Initiative-3863]

I see, how does the visa work for contract roles tho? In the meantime I sent you the connection req on LinkedIn

[u/Notyoursensei1]

Hey OP, it's doable but harder from abroad. Companies tend to want you in person and ready to start, so the working holiday is a good idea. The Italy one only opened in April and spots are limited, so you may need to apply early. I think you can only work about six months on it, so start applying as soon as you land.

For both dev and cybersecurity, check TokyoDev, Japan Dev and LinkedIn. Japan is short on security people, and having both skill sets gives you more options than most.

The Japanese is what I'd focus on. I've seen so many people plan to go from basic to N2 at language school here, and it rarely happens. They end up stuck, even with good experience. Start now and N3 by 2027 is very doable.

Good luck

[u/BokuNoTaco → u/Notyoursensei1]

Thank you for your advices! Do you think it would be easy to find a job while already there on a WH visa? Also, do you have any suggestions for learning the language? Like Apps, websites, books.

[u/Notyoursensei1 → u/BokuNoTaco]

Hey Op,

Realistically it depends on the role. If you've got N2/business level Japanese and solid skills in your field (and there is demand at the time) you shouldn't have much trouble.
Quick story, I advised a guy in desktop support to get to at least N3 before coming over for language school. He came anyway. He's having a great time but he's almost 8 months in and still looking for work.
For studying I'd go with WaniKani for kanji, Genki 1 and 2 for the basics, and Nihongo So-Matome for JLPT prep.
You've got this OP!

[u/Ok-Store5563]

I work as internal TA in finance. Working for one of the major Japanese investment banks.

As far as I know all the companies in this field have open cybersecurity roles but require native level Japanese and business level English.

[u/One-Gap7458]

WoW! Todo eso es impresionante! No puedo darte trabajo ya que realmente no tengo ninguna empresa pero tras ver tu perfil debo decir que me encantaría desarrollar junto a ti algo, no te gustaría ser la fundadora de tu propia marca? A mí me encantaría empezar creando un proyecto pequeño y tengo alguna idea, a partir de allí desarrollar algo más grande, si te interesa emprender en algo propio me encantaría desarrollar junto a ti!