Japan offers promising career opportunities for elderly care workers, especially as the demand for nursing staff increases due to the increasing number of elderly residents. Here is a summary of salary ranges, requirements, and career opportunities in the field of elderly care in Japan.

Career Opportunities for Elderly Caregivers in Japan

Japan is facing a major challenge in meeting the need for elderly care workers or kaigo as the elderly population increases. The nursing profession as kerja di Jepang is sought after by many people because it offers a fairly high salary. Moreover, the demand for nursing staff in various health facilities continues to increase to meet the needs of hospitals and nursing homes.

As a country with an advanced health system and a high quality of life, Japan is an attractive choice for those who want a career in nursing. For those interested in working as a nurse in Japan, there are a number of requirements and stages that need to be understood. This article will discuss the requirements and processes that must be followed to start a career in this field.

Although it offers great opportunities, this profession also has challenges that need to be taken into account.

Salary and Incentives for Elderly Nurses

Gaji Kaigo di Jepang earn an average monthly salary of between 220,000 and 250,000 yen, depending on their level of experience and location of employment. As workers in the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) category, nursing care workers or Kaigo earn an average salary of around 223,531 yen or around Rp. 23 million (exchange rate as of January 11, 2025).

This data is based on a survey conducted by the Immigration Services Agency in 2021 of foreign workers in the Tokutei Ginou (SSW) category. In addition to the basic salary, some employers also offer bonuses and additional financial incentives. Government programs such as the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) also play a role in facilitating the recruitment of foreign nursing staff, providing stable career opportunities for those who meet the qualifications.

Requirements and Qualifications to Become an Elderly Caregiver in Japan

For foreign workers who want to pursue a career as an elderly caregiver in Japan, there are several requirements that must be met, including:

1.   Pass the Elderly Care Skills Evaluation Test

This test aims to measure the understanding and specific skills required in elderly care work and to determine how much Gaji di Jepang you will get as Kaigo. Therefore, you need to be evaluated and trained first before working as Kaigo

2.   Japanese Language Proficiency

Prospective elderly caregivers are required to have adequate Japanese language competence and must pass one of the following tests:

• JFT-Basic organized by the Japan Foundation
• JLPT with level N4 or higher
• Japanese Language Evaluation Test for Elderly Care

3.   Education and Training

Some prospective workers can obtain exemptions from some tests if they meet the following criteria:

• Have undergone Japanese language training for more than six months at a care worker training institution.
• Complete a nursing practice curriculum totaling 450 hours within two years.