Delivering Delights: The Uber Eats Experience in Japan - A Personal Journey

The integration of Uber Eats into Japan's food delivery landscape has been remarkable, and my own experience as a delivery partner in Kobe since April 2024 has been just as compelling. Upon submitting my documents for approval, which included my passport, proof of work eligibility in Japan, and scooter insurance, I encountered a procedure distinct to foreign nationals.

In contrast to Japanese citizens, I had to personally visit Uber’s compliance office for document verification. This measure ensures that all foreign delivery partners are authorized to work in Japan. For me, the closest compliance center was in Osaka, a trip that highlighted the dedication needed to undertake this endeavor.

After the in-person verification, Uber prompted me to take an online driving test via their app. This test is an essential part of the onboarding process, aiming to confirm that all delivery partners understand safe driving practices, which is critical amidst the busy streets and complex traffic layouts of Japanese cities.

Following a successful test completion, I awaited a day or two for the final confirmation.

Once approved, I officially joined the Uber Eats team, prepared to traverse Kobe's streets and provide a variety of culinary experiences to a wide-ranging customer base. My experience has been enjoyable thus far, as it allows me to explore new places and meet different people.

The Essentials for Starting Your Uber Eats Adventure in Japan: Before you can begin delivering, there are some essential requirements that must be met:

• Age: You must be at least 18 years old.

• Vehicle: The delivery method you choose may necessitate the use of a bicycle, moped, scooter, or car. For scooters with an engine size under 125cc, both a driver's license and insurance are mandatory.

• Documentation: You will need to present an identification card and a profile photograph. Depending on your delivery vehicle, additional documents like a vehicle registration certificate and insurance may also be necessary.

• Residency Status: To work in Japan, you must possess a valid residency status that permits employment, such as Permanent Resident, Spouse or Child of a Japanese National, Long-term Resident, or another category that allows work activities.

Required Documents for Uber Eats Japan Delivery Partners

For all delivery methods, you’ll need:

• ID documents for foreign nationals (if applicable)
• Photograph of the required documents
• Profile photo without sunglasses, masks, or hats

For delivery by foot or bicycle:

• Identification Card (身分証明書)
  

  
  
  
  

For delivery by moped:

• Driver’s license(運転免許証) 
  
• License Plates (ナンバープレートの写真)
• Automobile liability insurance certificate (自賠責保険証)
• Light vehicle registration certificate (自動車損害賠償責任保険証明書)

For delivery by small two-wheeled vehicle or kei-car:

• Driver’s license (運転免許証)
• Vehicle inspection certificate (車検証または軽自動車届出済証)
• Optional insurance or mutual insurance certificate 

(任意保険または自動車共済証書)

Initially, I needed a delivery bag, which I acquired from Uber Japan's website. This was a more economical choice compared to other online marketplaces like Amazon Japan. The bag is not just a vessel; it symbolizes our dedication to service – guaranteeing that the food stays safe and at the right temperature until it reaches the customer.

On-the-Job Learning Interestingly, formal training is not mandatory. True learning happens on the streets, through practical experience. However, a fundamental understanding of Japanese is crucial, as dealing with customer calls is unavoidable. These interactions are not limited to confirming orders or finding addresses; they also provide opportunities to build a connection with customers, even if just through a brief phone conversation.

Navigating Payments and Orders The Uber Eats application offers the choice to accept cash payments or to function completely cashless. I prefer the cashless option for its convenience – it eliminates the need to search for exact change. This advantage becomes particularly evident on rainy days, enabling quicker and smoother transactions.

Familiarizing with the Locale For newcomers to Uber Eats delivery, familiarizing oneself with the local area is essential. Knowing the local landmarks and stores can aid in navigation and significantly speed up your deliveries. You have the option to either accept or decline orders as they come in. Keep in mind that some orders may require multiple pickups, which can be managed effectively with careful planning.

Attention to Detail Confirming your order by verifying the order number and interacting with the shop staff is crucial. While errors can occur, they tend to decrease with experience and careful attention. My early mistakes have taught me to be more meticulous in confirming that each order is accurate before departure.

The Financial Aspect A benefit of this job is the non-existence of a tipping culture. As a delivery partner, my income depends entirely on the orders I complete. Accepting even the smaller pickup orders has shown me that diligence is rewarding. The payment process is uncomplicated; I receive my earnings every Monday, weekly, directly into my bank account, which was established via the app.

Quests: The Extra Mile Uber Eats encourages its delivery partners with Quests, offering performance-based bonuses. For instance, completing 10 deliveries might yield an extra bonus of 1000 Yen or more. Quests serve as incentives, encouraging partners to take on more deliveries and boost their income.

Independence and Flexibility The most attractive aspect of collaborating with Uber Eats is the freedom it provides. As my own boss, I have the liberty to decide when and how often I work. This independence is priceless and a major factor in my enjoyment of being part of the Uber Eats community.

This is more than a guide to working with Uber Eats in Japan; it's an insight into the personal growth that accompanies it. Not only will you master the basics, but you may also discover personal development in ways you didn't anticipate. It's fascinating how this app brings together people from diverse backgrounds, offering each person an opportunity to try something different. Along the journey, you might even learn some Japanese.

What is Resident Tax in Japan and who needs to pay it?住民税 JUUMINZEI

Understanding Japan's Residence Tax: A Comprehensive Guide

Living in Japan comes with the responsibility of contributing to local communities. Residence tax is a local tax paid by residents to fund public services like education and welfare.

Who Needs to Pay Residence Tax?

Anyone residing in a Japanese prefecture and municipality as of January 1st is liable for residence tax. There's a grace period for newcomers – you won't be taxed in the year you arrive, but you will be for the previous year's income if you're still in Japan on the following January 1st. Even if you leave before the bill arrives, you're still obligated to pay.

Here is an example of the residence tax bill.

Calculating Your Residence Tax

The tax amount is based on your taxable income earned between January 1st and December 31st of the preceding year. The tax office analyzes your income tax return (kakutei shinkoku 確定申告) for this period and calculates the tax based on two components:

• Per capita burden: A fixed amount set by each municipality.
• Income-based portion: A percentage of your taxable income.

Example Breakdown (hypothetical rates):

Tax Type	Rate	Per Capita Burden
Prefectural Resident Tax	4%	1,000 yen
Municipal Resident Tax	6%	3,000 yen
Forest Environment Tax (optional)	-	1,000 yen
Total	10%	5,000 yen

How to Pay Your Residence Tax

The tax office typically calculates your residence tax. However, you can use the following formula if you're curious:

Taxable Income Amount - Income Deductions = Taxable Income Amount
Taxable Income Amount × Tax Rate - Tax Amount Deductions = Income Tax Amount
Income Tax Amount + Per Capita Burden = Resident Tax Amount

There are two payment methods with different due dates:

• Lump sum payment: Due in June.
• Installment payment: Divided into four payments due in June, August, October, and January.

Payment Methods

• Special collection (salary deductions): For employees, the municipality sends the tax notice to your employer, who deducts the tax from your salary throughout the year or in a single payment.
• Ordinary collection: For freelancers, self-employed individuals, or the unemployed with income from the previous year, the city office sends a tax notice in June specifying the due date. You can pay at a post office, financial institution, or convenience store.

Important Reminders

• Leaving employment: If your residence tax was deducted through salary deductions, and you quit your job, the remaining balance will be shifted to ordinary collection. Some employers may deduct the outstanding amount from your final paycheck. Clarify tax payment procedures before resigning.
• Leaving Japan: You're still responsible for paying any due residence tax before departure. If you can't pay beforehand, appoint a tax representative authorized to pay on your behalf with the local government office.

Reducing Your Residence Tax Burden

• Foreign tax credit: If you've already paid income tax on foreign income, you might be eligible for a deduction on your Japanese income tax, which can indirectly reduce your residence tax.
• Tax treaties: Many countries have tax treaties with Japan, some covering residence tax. Residents fulfilling specific requirements, such as trainees or apprentices, might qualify for a lower or even waived residence tax by submitting the Application Form for Income Tax Convention (租税条約に関する届出書, sozei jōyaku ni kansuru todokede-sho) by March 15th.

Conclusion: Pay Your Fair Share in Japan

Residence tax helps your local community thrive. It's easy to pay, with options for installments or a lump sum. Remember deadlines and plan ahead if you leave your job or Japan. By following these tips, you'll fulfill your tax obligation smoothly.