Want to teach English in Japan? Working with an ALT dispatch company is one of the easiest ways to land a job. These companies place foreign teachers in public schools, handling contracts, training, and visa support. In this guide, we'll explore the best ALT dispatch companies in Japan, their pros and cons, and how to choose the right one.
What is an ALT Dispatch Company?
An ALT (Assistant Language Teacher) dispatch company hires English teachers and assigns them to elementary, junior high, or high schools in Japan. Unlike direct-hire positions, where the school employs you directly, dispatch companies act as a middleman, managing contracts and placements.
✅ Pros of Working with an ALT Dispatch Company
- Easier to Get Hired – More job opportunities, even for first-time teachers.
- Placement Support – The company arranges housing, visa sponsorship, and school assignments.
- Training & Assistance – Initial training and ongoing support provided.
❌ Cons of Working with an ALT Dispatch Company
- Lower Salary – Pay is often lower than direct-hire positions.
- Less Stability – Contracts may vary by location and school.
- Middleman Fees – The company takes a cut of your earnings.
Top ALT Dispatch Companies in Japan
Here are some of the best ALT dispatch companies for foreign teachers in Japan:
1. Interac – Largest ALT Dispatch Company
Overview: Interac is the largest ALT dispatch company in Japan, offering placements in urban and rural areas. They provide training, visa support, and flexible contract options.
Pros:
✔ Large number of job openings
✔ Training and visa sponsorship
✔ Positions across Japan
Cons:
✖ Lower salaries than direct-hire positions
✖ Unpaid holidays
2. Borderlink – Growing ALT Provider
Overview: Borderlink is a fast-growing dispatch company, known for quick hiring and teacher development programs.
Pros:
✔ Quick hiring process
✔ Training provided
✔ Some transportation reimbursement
Cons:
✖ Mixed reviews on salary and contract terms
✖ Limited benefits
3. Altia Central – Best for Western Japan
🔗 Altia Central Website
Overview: Altia Central specializes in ALT placements in Western Japan (e.g., Nagoya, Hiroshima). They have a strong reputation for teacher support and fair contracts.
Pros:
✔ Strong teacher support
✔ Competitive pay for a dispatch company
✔ Stable contract conditions
Cons:
✖ Limited job locations
✖ Fewer positions than larger companies
4. Heart Corporation – Entry-Level Friendly
Overview: Heart Corporation hires ALTs for rural and suburban areas. They are a good option for first-time teachers looking for experience in Japan.
Pros:
✔ Easier hiring process
✔ Visa sponsorship available
✔ Placements in smaller cities and towns
Cons:
✖ Lower salary compared to other dispatch companies
✖ Reports of inconsistent contracts
5. Joytalk – Smaller, Teacher-Friendly Dispatch Company
Overview: Joytalk is a smaller ALT dispatch company that focuses on Tohoku and Kanto regions. They offer personalized support for teachers.
Pros:
✔ Smaller company with a personal touch
✔ Decent work-life balance
✔ Teacher-friendly policies
Cons:
✖ Limited job openings
✖ Less known than bigger companies
How to Choose the Best ALT Dispatch Company
When selecting an ALT dispatch company, consider the following factors:
📍 Location – Do they offer jobs in your preferred area?
💰 Salary & Benefits – Compare salaries, transportation allowances, and bonuses.
📝 Contract Terms – Check for unpaid holidays, working hours, and renewal options.
🔎 Teacher Reviews – Read online reviews and testimonials to gauge the company’s reputation.
Conclusion
Working with an ALT dispatch company is a great way to start teaching in Japan. While salaries and benefits vary, these companies provide job security, visa sponsorship, and school placements.
Among the top choices, Interac is the largest, Altia Central offers strong teacher support, and Borderlink provides fast hiring. Choose the company that best fits your location, salary expectations, and career goals.
💡 Looking for an ALT job in Japan? Check out SenseiJob for the latest openings!