SPECIFIED SKILLED WORKER IN JAPAN
Work in Japan under the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) Status
The Specified Skilled Worker program is a Japanese residence-status system for foreign nationals who have the skills and Japanese-language ability required to work in designated industrial fields.
01 / BASIC INFORMATION
What Is the Specified Skilled Worker Status?
Specified Skilled Worker, commonly called SSW, is a status of residence in Japan for foreign nationals working in designated fields where employers face labor shortages.
SSW TYPE 1
Specified Skilled Worker (i)
- For work requiring a defined level of occupational skill
- Japanese-language and skills requirements apply
- Support in Japan is required in applicable cases
- Family accompaniment is generally not permitted
SSW TYPE 2
Specified Skilled Worker (ii)
- For workers with a higher level of occupational skill
- Available only in eligible industrial fields
- Renewal is possible when requirements continue to be met
- Eligible family members may accompany the worker
02 / ELIGIBILITY
Who Can Apply for an SSW Job?
Requirements differ depending on the industrial field and the applicant’s background. In general, applicants must satisfy the requirements applicable to the work they intend to perform.
03 / JOB SECTORS
SSW Job Fields Supported by TORANOMON
Japan’s Specified Skilled Worker system covers designated industrial fields. TORANOMON Corporation focuses its recruitment activities on selected sectors where we can provide practical recruitment support.
Accommodation
Manufacturing
— Truck Driving
04 / JOB SEARCH PROCESS
How to Find an SSW Job in Japan
The exact procedure depends on whether you are already living in Japan or applying from overseas. A typical recruitment process includes the following steps.
Check Your Eligibility
Confirm your SSW field, test results, Japanese-language ability, residence status and other relevant qualifications.
Find a Suitable Job
Look for a position that matches your qualifications, experience, preferred work and location.
Employer Interview
The employer reviews your application and conducts an interview before deciding whether to make an offer.
Employment Offer
Confirm salary, working hours, location, duties and other employment conditions before accepting the position.
Residence-Status Procedures
The required immigration procedure is coordinated according to your individual situation and the type of application required.
Start Employment
After the required procedures are completed, you prepare to join the employer and begin work.
05 / WHERE ARE YOU NOW?
Applying in Japan or from Overseas
CURRENTLY IN JAPAN
Already Living in Japan?
If you are already living in Japan and want to change jobs, TORANOMON will first check whether your qualifications and current residence status match the position you are seeking.
Candidates who already hold SSW status may be able to change employers within an eligible field, subject to the required procedures and conditions.
OUTSIDE JAPAN
Applying from Overseas?
Applicants outside Japan should first confirm the requirements for the relevant SSW field, including the applicable skills test and Japanese-language requirement.
Recruitment opportunities depend on the employer, occupation, country-specific procedures and the applicant’s qualifications.
TORANOMON CORPORATION
Recruitment Support for Specified Skilled Workers
TORANOMON Corporation supports foreign workers and Japanese employers by matching recruitment requirements with eligible candidates.
We do not determine immigration approval. Residence-status applications are examined by the relevant Japanese immigration authorities.
- Licensed Employment Placement Agency
- Registered Support Organization
- Candidate introduction and interview coordination
- Employment onboarding coordination
- Support for eligible SSW workers after employment
06 / FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Is SSW the same as a work visa?
“SSW visa” is a commonly used expression, but Specified Skilled Worker is formally a status of residence in Japan.
Do I need Japanese-language ability?
SSW Type 1 applicants generally need to satisfy the Japanese-language requirement applicable to their field. Additional requirements may apply for certain occupations.
Do I need to pass a skills test?
In general, applicants must meet the skills requirement for the relevant SSW field. Certain applicants who have completed relevant Technical Intern Training may qualify for exemptions.
Can I change jobs while living in Japan?
A change of employer may be possible if the new work falls within an eligible SSW field and all applicable employment and immigration requirements are satisfied.
Can my family come to Japan with me?
Family accompaniment is generally not permitted under SSW Type 1. Different rules apply to SSW Type 2.
Does TORANOMON guarantee SSW approval?
No. TORANOMON supports recruitment and applicable support procedures, but immigration decisions are made by the Japanese immigration authorities.
URESHII GLOBAL
Looking for an SSW Job in Japan?
Register your information with URESHII Global. We will review your qualifications and consider suitable job opportunities based on available employer requirements.
Register with URESHII GlobalRegistration does not guarantee employment or immigration approval.