The Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) visa lets you work in Japan in designated industry fields if you pass a skills exam and a basic Japanese test — no university degree required.
Key facts
- Japanese level
- JLPT N4 or JFT-Basic
- Skills exam
- Required per industry field
- SSW (i) max stay
- 5 years total
- Family (SSW i)
- Not permitted
- SSW (ii)
- Renewable, family permitted
- Degree required
- No
What is the Specified Skilled Worker visa?
The Specified Skilled Worker (特定技能, tokutei ginō) status was introduced in 2019 to accept foreign workers with practical skills into industries facing labor shortages. It is the main route to work in Japan without a university degree.
There are two types:
| SSW (i) | SSW (ii) | |
|---|---|---|
| Stay | Up to 5 years total | Renewable without limit |
| Family | Not permitted | Spouse and children permitted |
| Requirement | Field skills test + JLPT N4 / JFT-Basic | Higher-level field skills test |
| Permanent residency path | No (indirectly, via SSW ii) | Yes |
Who is it for?
SSW fits you if you have practical work experience (or are willing to train for a skills test) and basic Japanese, but no university degree. Typical fields include nursing care, food service, construction, agriculture, manufacturing and building cleaning. The list of designated fields has been expanded over time — always check the current list on the official SSW portal before choosing a test.
Who is it not for?
If you have a university degree and are aiming at office, engineering or specialist jobs, the Engineer / Specialist in Humanities visa usually offers better conditions: no total time cap, family sponsorship, and a direct path to permanent residency.
Step by step
- Choose an industry field
Check the list of designated SSW fields (care, food service, construction, agriculture, manufacturing and others) and pick the one matching your experience.
- Pass the skills evaluation test
Each field has its own test. Many are held both in Japan and in other countries — check the official schedule for your country.
- Pass the Japanese language test
JFT-Basic or JLPT N4 (or higher) is accepted. Former technical intern trainees who completed Technical Intern Training (ii) may be exempt.
- Find an employer and sign a contract
The employer (or a registered support organization) must provide a support plan covering housing, orientation and Japanese learning.
- Apply for the visa
The employer usually applies for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) in Japan; you then apply for the visa at the Japanese embassy or consulate in your country.
Common mistakes & warnings
- Never pay large "guarantee fees" to brokers. Charging workers excessive fees is prohibited under the SSW program rules.
- SSW (i) time is capped at 5 years in total, even if you change employers.
- Your job duties must match the industry field on your visa — working outside it can invalidate your status.
Frequently asked questions
Can I change employers on an SSW visa?
Yes, within the same industry field. You must notify immigration and complete a change procedure before starting the new job.
Can I bring my family?
Not on SSW (i). SSW (ii), available in most fields after passing a higher-level exam, allows spouses and children.
Does SSW lead to permanent residency?
Time on SSW (ii) counts toward the residency requirement for permanent residency. SSW (i) alone does not provide a direct path, but you can move to SSW (ii).
Official sources
- Immigration Services Agency — Specified Skilled Worker portal (2026-07-15)
- Immigration Services Agency of Japan (2026-07-15)
This page provides general information only and is not legal advice. Immigration rules change; always confirm details with the official sources listed above before making decisions.