Yokohama Uber Eats Opportunities: Delivery Guide for Japan’s Second City

Japan’s food delivery culture, known as demae (出前), has a long history that has evolved from simple noodle deliveries to a high-tech, app-driven industry. Since its entry into Japan in 2016, Uber Eats has become a dominant force, transforming how people eat and creating flexible earning opportunities for thousands. For foreigners living in Japan, this presents a unique way to earn income, explore the city, and be your own boss.

This guide provides a comprehensive overview for foreign nationals interested in becoming an Uber Eats delivery partner, with a special focus on Yokohama, Japan’s vibrant second-largest city.

Why Deliver in Yokohama? A City of Opportunity

While Tokyo often grabs the spotlight, Yokohama offers a fantastic and slightly less saturated environment for delivery partners. As Japan’s second-most populous city, it boasts a dense urban core, sprawling residential areas, and a diverse culinary scene. Uber Eats officially launched its services in Yokohama on November 1, 2017, and has since built a strong network of restaurants and customers.

Delivering in Yokohama means tapping into a large, active customer base with a wide variety of restaurants, from local ramen shops to international chains. The city’s excellent infrastructure and scenic routes can also make for a more enjoyable delivery experience.

Uber Eats has continued to invest in the area, even launching its first collaborative restaurant venture in Japan in Yokohama, demonstrating its commitment to the local market.

The Booming Japanese Food Delivery Market

The online food delivery market in Japan has experienced explosive growth, a trend accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic but sustained by a continuing demand for convenience. Understanding the market’s scale can highlight the potential for delivery partners.

Market Growth and Projections

The market is not just large; it’s consistently growing. According to market analysis, Japan’s online food delivery market is on a strong upward trajectory. In 2024, the market generated revenues of over $18 billion and is projected to grow significantly in the coming years, showcasing a robust and expanding ecosystem for delivery services.

Leading Platforms in Japan

While several apps compete for market share, Uber Eats stands out as the leader. By the end of 2023, the Uber Eats app had been downloaded nearly 30 million times in Japan, significantly more than its closest competitor, Demae-can. This popularity translates directly into more order requests and earning opportunities for its delivery partners.

Becoming an Uber Eats Partner: A Guide for Foreign Nationals

Signing up to be an Uber Eats delivery partner in Japan involves meeting specific requirements, especially for foreign nationals. It’s crucial to ensure you have the correct documentation and legal status to work.

Core Eligibility Requirements

Before diving into visa specifics, here are the universal requirements:

• Age: You must be at least 18 years old.
• Japanese Skills: Basic Japanese communication skills are required to handle pickups and deliveries.
• Bank Account: You need a Japanese bank account to receive payments. Note that some banks like Shinkin, Shinkumi, and JA Bank are not accepted.
• Smartphone: An essential tool for receiving orders and navigating via the Uber Driver app.

Crucial Visa and Residence Status Requirements

This is the most critical step for any foreigner. Your status of residence (visa) must permit you to engage in the type of work offered by Uber Eats, which is classified as independent contractor work. According to the official Uber Eats Japan requirements, new sign-ups from foreign nationals are only accepted if they hold one of the following statuses:

• Permanent Resident (永住者, eijūsha)
• Special Permanent Resident (特別永住者, tokubetsu eijūsha)
• Spouse or Child of a Japanese National (日本人の配偶者等, nihonjin no haigūsha-tō)
• Spouse or Child of a Permanent Resident (永住者の配偶者等, eijūsha no haigūsha-tō)
• Long-Term Resident (定住者, teijūsha)
• Designated Activities (Working Holiday) (特定活動, tokutei katsudō)

Important Note: Visas like Student, Dependent, or standard work visas (e.g., Engineer/Specialist in Humanities) are generally not eligible for new sign-ups. The “Permission to Engage in Activity Other Than That Permitted” (資格外活動許可) that allows students to work part-time does not typically cover this type of independent contractor work for Uber Eats registration. Always refer to the latest requirements on the official Uber website.

General Required Documents

All applicants will need to upload clear photos of the following:

1. Profile Photo: A clear, forward-facing photo of yourself without hats or sunglasses. This is for your customer-facing profile.
2. Identification Card: This varies based on your residence status. For most eligible foreigners, it will be your Residence Card (Zairyu Card). You may also need to provide your passport.
3. Proof of Work Permit: This is typically verified via your Residence Card (both front and back). Working Holiday visa holders will also need to submit their “Designation Certificate” (指定書).
4. ATM Card or Bank Book: A photo showing the bank name, account number, and your name to set up payments.

Choosing Your Wheels: Delivery Method Requirements

Uber Eats offers flexibility in how you deliver. Your choice of vehicle determines the additional documents you’ll need. Note that using a private-use vehicle for commercial delivery is not permitted; vehicles must be properly registered for commercial purposes.

Delivery by Bicycle or on Foot

This is the simplest way to get started, requiring the least documentation. Delivery on foot is available in select high-density areas.

• Requirements: General documents (Profile Photo, ID, Bank Info).
• Bicycle Rules: Your bicycle must have an anti-theft registration (防犯登録, bōhan tōroku), which is required by law in Japan. While not mandatory, Uber strongly encourages wearing a helmet.
• Prohibited Vehicles: “;Specified small motorized bicycles” (like electric kickboards) and “all-electric bicycles” are not permitted for registration under the bicycle category due to legal complexities. Using them can lead to account suspension.

Delivery by Moped/Scooter (Under 125cc)

A popular choice for covering more ground quickly.

• Additional Documents:
  • Valid Japanese Driver’s License (運転免許証)
  • Photo of your License Plate (ナンバープレート)
  • Liability Insurance Certificate (自動車損害賠償責任保険証明書)

Delivery by Motorcycle (Over 125cc) or Kei-Car

For those looking to maximize range and carry larger orders. These vehicles must be registered for commercial use (事業用), often indicated by a green or black license plate.

• Additional Documents:
  • Valid Japanese Driver’s License
  • Photo of your Commercial License Plate
  • Liability Insurance Certificate
  • Optional Insurance Certificate (任意保険証券): This is mandatory for vehicles over 125cc.
  • Light Motor Vehicle Certificate (for 125cc-250cc) or Vehicle Inspection Certificate (for over 250cc/kei-cars).

Gearing Up: Essential Equipment for Success

While Uber Eats provides the platform, having the right gear can make your deliveries smoother, safer, and more profitable. Here are some essentials:

• Insulated Delivery Bag: A high-quality, insulated bag is crucial for keeping food at the right temperature. Uber Eats often provides an official bag upon signup, or you can purchase one.
• Phone Mount: A sturdy, waterproof phone mount for your bicycle or scooter is non-negotiable for safe, hands-free navigation.
• Portable Power Bank: The Uber Driver app consumes a lot of battery. A power bank ensures your phone doesn’t die mid-shift.
• Safety Gear: For cyclists, a helmet is highly recommended. Good lights and reflectors are essential for visibility, especially at night. For all drivers, rain gear is a must for weathering Japan’s unpredictable climate.
• Bike Locks: A strong lock (or two) is vital to protect your primary work tool from theft when you’re picking up orders.

Understanding Your Earnings and Tax Obligations

As an Uber Eats delivery partner, you are an independent contractor, not an employee. This gives you the freedom to set your own schedule but also means you are responsible for your own taxes.

• Earnings: You get paid for each delivery, with fares calculated based on distance and other factors. You can also earn more through promotions (Boost, Surge) and keep 100% of any tips customers give you. Payments are typically made weekly.
• Taxes: Since taxes are not withheld from your earnings, you are required to report your income and pay taxes yourself. This is done by filing a final tax return (確定申告, kakutei shinkoku) annually between February 16th and March 15th for the previous year’s income. It is highly recommended to keep detailed records of your earnings and work-related expenses (e.g., vehicle maintenance, gear, phone bills), as these can be deducted from your taxable income. For guidance, consult the National Tax Agency website or a professional accountant.

Ready to Ride? Your Next Steps

Delivering for Uber Eats in Yokohama offers a flexible and accessible way to earn money while exploring one of Japan’s most dynamic cities. By ensuring you meet the visa and documentation requirements, you can join a thriving community of delivery partners on Japan’s leading food delivery platform.

If you have the right visa, the necessary documents, and a desire to be your own boss, the process is straightforward. Sign up, get your account activated, and start earning on your own schedule.