ALT FAQs - Contract

Remuneration

What is the monthly salary?

Most ABC PLUS ALTs' starting salary is 250,000 yen (240,000 base salary + 10,000 attendance bonus) per month, before withholding taxes, which is about 7%, on average. The monthly salary includes an attendance bonus component that is paid in full each month if all professional responsibilities are met.

When is payday?

ABC PLUS ALTs receive a monthly paycheck, deposited into their postal bank account that the teacher sets up himself or herself, on 10th of the month. When this day falls on a weekend or national holiday, the salary is deposited into the account on the following business-trading day. When the day falls on a scheduled holiday, the salary is deposited into the account on the first day after holidays. Depending on the starting date, the first paycheck will be received approximately four to six weeks after commencing employment.

Do I get paid for overtime?

Of course you will be compensated for any overtime and the details regarding this are in our employment contract. However, as an ALT working the public school system, your hours are set (8am-5pm). There are no classes after 5pm; therefore, there is little chance of having to work overtime during your contract.

Positions

How long is my contract?

You will sign a one-year contract. Most ABC PLUS ALT positions start in either late March or late August, and run though until March of the following year. Only applicants who are able to commit to a full year's employment will be offered positions with ABC PLUS.

Is promotion available within the company?

Some advancement opportunities arise from time to time. For example, ALTs who have demonstrated exemplary work performance and have a desire to renew their contracts for another term may either be offered ALT contract renewal or a position with ABC PLUS' conversation school. There may also be opportunities to move into a 'Head Teacher' or 'ALT Trainer' position later on.

I hear the economy is getting worse--could you fire me for no reason?

The only reasons for dismissal would be poor work performance or serious misconduct (as outlined in the contract).

Visa

Will you sponsor my visa? Is it difficult to get a visa?

Yes, visa sponsorship is available.
The requirements for visa eligibility are that you must have minimum 3-year college/university degree and you must not have paid Japanese tax since you moved in Japan.

Will you sponsor my family?

No we don't sponsor family members. But you may apply for a dependant's visa on you own.

Will you pay for my airfare to Japan? Do you pay for a return trip home during the contract/at the end of the contract?

No, we don't pay for your airfare. But when you complete your one year contract, we will pay a one year contract completion bonus, which is 150,000 yen.

Can you get a job for my spouse?

It is possible, provided your spouse proves to be a qualified applicant and there is another available position. However, we will not automatically provide a job for your spouse, nor will we sponsor their visa.

Accommodation

What is my apartment like?

Almost all ABC PLUS ALTs live in their own private apartments. ABC PLUS provides an economical and convenient apartment, and provides the guarantorship and pays for all deposits, key money and real estate fees that are required to secure a place to live.

Typical apartments usually have one bedroom and a small kitchen.
Apartments are between 25 meters square and 35 meters square including the bathroom and toilet. Almost all the apartments are higher than 2nd floor.
Also, you will be responsible for paying any damages incurred during your time in the apartment.

How much do I have to pay for the apartment?

Approximately 55,000 yen per month.

Can I find my own apartment?

Yes. But we don't pay for the key money, deposit or commission to a real estate company. Also, we will not pay for your commuting costs if you wish to secure your own accommodation.

How much do I have to pay for the apartment?

Approximately 55,000 yen per month.

Health Insurance

Tell me more about the health insurance. Does ABC PLUS provide Health Insurance?

ABC PLUS ALTs are required to enroll in a Health Insurance plan recognized by the Japanese government. A comprehensive, company subsidized Health Insurance plan is available at a cost of between 2.5 and 3.0% of the monthly salary.

Speaking of health, how's the medical system over there? Do I need any special vaccinations?

Generally, no you don't need any vaccinations in order to come to Japan. However, if you have diabetes, the medication is available here as well. We do know some doctors who can speak English in Nagoya. If you wish for assistance with medical issues, we would be happy to help in any way we can.

Working Days / Holidays

What holidays/vacation time do I receive?

Paid holidays are predetermined. Holidays are approximately six weeks per year; two weeks in winter, one in spring, one in summer and 12 days which are national holidays throughout the year. However, the school board decides exactly how many vacation days you will receive. We will inform you before you sign your contract.

Can I teach privately on the side? Can I do other work on the side?

Yes, you may teach privately. But school board requires that you receive their permission first. Working for any other institution/school is strictly prohibited.

What if I want to cancel the contract?

We'd like to know what problems you are experiencing first. If the school board or a city officer asks you to perform duties that exceed those outlined in your contract, we will help you to solve the problems and protect you.