Get a job under Engineer / Specialist in Humanities / International Services
For work that mainly uses language skills in dealing with people — interpreting, translation, overseas trade, language teaching, and the like — you need documents proving ability at roughly CEFR B2 in the language used at work. For Japanese, any of the items below is treated as B2-equivalent. The level required varies with the size of the company and the nature of the role.
Japanese ability equivalent to CEFR B2 (deemed met by any of the following)JLPT N2 or aboveBJT 400 or above
Comparison
| Attribute | Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) | Business Japanese Proficiency Test (BJT) |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | The world's largest test certifying Japanese ability for non-native speakers | Score-based assessment of Japanese communication ability in business settings |
| Required level for this status | N2 以上 | BJTスコア 400点以上 |
| Frequency | Twice a year (July & December) | Year-round (computer-based) |
| Organizer | Japan Foundation & JEES | 日本漢字能力検定協会 |
| Levels / CEFR | N1 · N2 · N3 · N4 · N5 (CEFR A1–C1) | J1+ · J1 · J2 · J3 · J4 · J5 |
| Countries | 15 | — |
| Typical fee | ¥7,500 / ₫600,000 | ¥8,000 |
| Role for this purpose | N2 is the most widely accepted proof. | Shows working ability in business settings. Year-round. 480+ for Highly Skilled Professional points. |
| Official site | Official site ↗ | Official site ↗ |
Which should you take?
JLPT N2 is the most widely accepted. To show working ability in business settings, BJT 400 or above can be used (480 or above for Highly Skilled Professional points). Both are treated as CEFR B2-equivalent. Confirm which proof is valid with the company or institution you are applying to.
FAQ
Is a Japanese exam required for Engineer / Specialist in Humanities / International Services?
It is not a blanket requirement, but for roles where Japanese is central — interpreting, translation, sales — proof at roughly CEFR B2 (such as JLPT N2) may be required.
Which exam is valid?
JLPT N2 is the most widely accepted. BJT 400 or above is also treated as B2-equivalent. Check with the company or institution you are applying to.
Next steps
Basis: 上陸基準省令「技術・人文知識・国際業務」／審査要領（対人・言語業務は CEFR B2 相当）