Japan’s Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) Visa, introduced in April 2019, is part of Japan's effort to address labor shortages in key industries while providing foreign workers the opportunity to work in Japan. Unlike many other work visas, the SSW visa is designed for foreign nationals with practical skills but without an academic or technical degree, making it an excellent option for those looking for direct employment in Japan's industries.
If you’re thinking about applying for this visa, it’s essential to understand the eligibility requirements, conditions, and the numerous benefits it offers.
The Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) Visa allows foreign workers to enter Japan and work in designated industries that are experiencing labor shortages. There are two categories under the SSW visa:
This category is for workers who possess practical skills and basic Japanese language ability. Workers can stay in Japan for up to five years but are not allowed to bring family members.
This category is for skilled workers in industries requiring higher proficiency. Workers under this category can extend their stay beyond five years and are eligible to bring family members to Japan.
Currently, there are 14 industries open to SSW visa holders, including agriculture, construction, hospitality, food service, manufacturing, shipbuilding, and care work.
1.Age and Educational Background
There is no specific educational requirement for the SSW visa, but applicants must be at least 18 years old. This visa is designed for workers with practical skills, so hands-on experience in the target industry is more important than formal education.
Applicants must pass a skills assessment test specific to the industry they are applying for. These tests evaluate whether the applicant has the practical skills necessary to work in that sector.
Each industry has its own set of exams, which are conducted either in Japan or overseas. Some industries may also recognize relevant work experience in lieu of formal testing.
Applicants must have a basic understanding of the Japanese language to communicate effectively in the workplace. This is typically demonstrated by passing the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) at N4 level or higher, or by passing the Japan Foundation Test for Basic Japanese (JFT-Basic).
Proficiency in Japanese not only improves communication at work but also helps foreign workers adapt to life in Japan.
As with other work visas, applicants must undergo a medical check-up to confirm they are physically and mentally fit to work in Japan. Some industries, such as construction or caregiving, may have additional health requirements based on the nature of the work.
Japan’s Technical Intern Training Program (TITP) is a unique opportunity for foreign nationals, especially from developing countries, to gain practical skills and technical knowledge in Japan. Designed to foster international cooperation and skills transfer, this program allows trainees to work in Japanese industries for a defined period, helping them build expertise that can be applied back in their home countries.
If you're considering applying for the TITP, it's essential to understand the visa’s requirements and conditions to ensure eligibility.
The Technical Intern Training Program was initiated by the Japanese government to contribute to the development of global economies. Through the program, foreign workers can gain hands-on experience in industries such as manufacturing, agriculture, construction, and more. The goal is for participants to acquire advanced skills in Japan that they can use in their own countries to boost industrial development.
To be eligible for a TITP visa, candidates must meet several key requirements:
Applicants are generally expected to be between 18 and 30 years old, though this can vary by sending organization or partner company.
Most candidates should have completed secondary education or vocational training in their home country. While higher education is not strictly required, a solid academic foundation or technical skills can increase the chances of selection.
While not always mandatory at the time of application, basic knowledge of the Japanese language is highly encouraged. Many sending organizations require candidates to undergo language training before departure to help them adjust to the Japanese work environment.
Having a foundational level of Japanese (around N5 or N4 on the Japanese Language Proficiency Test) will give you an advantage, as it improves communication at the workplace and helps with day-to-day life in Japan.
Though previous work experience is not always required, having skills relevant to the field you will be interning in can strengthen your application. Some programs may prefer candidates who have undergone vocational training in their home country.
Applicants must undergo a medical check-up to ensure they are physically and mentally fit to participate in the program. Some industries, such as construction or agriculture, may have additional health requirements due to the nature of the work.
Once accepted into the program, participants must abide by certain conditions:
The TITP visa is typically valid for a period of one to three years, depending on the type of training program and the specific industry. Participants can extend their stay by progressing through different levels of training, though the maximum stay is capped at five years.
The visa is strictly tied to the receiving company or organization that sponsors the intern in Japan. Participants cannot switch employers or industries during the course of the program. Any violation of this condition can result in deportation or loss of visa status.
The primary focus of the program is on learning and skill development, though it also involves practical work experience. Participants are expected to receive structured training, which helps them improve their technical skills and apply them at the workplace.
As part of the program, participants receive a stipend or salary based on Japan’s labor laws. Though the wage might be lower compared to permanent employees, interns are entitled to benefits such as health insurance, paid leave, and social security coverage.
Japan's International Service Visa is a work visa aimed at foreign professionals in various international service fields. It is designed to attract individuals with specialized skills, knowledge, and expertise that align with Japan's growing demand for global talent in fields like translation, interpreting, public relations, overseas business, and more. This visa provides a pathway for professionals looking to contribute to Japan’s global business landscape while experiencing the country’s unique culture.
In this blog, we’ll explore the requirements and benefits of the International Service Visa and how it can open doors for international professionals.
To apply for the International Service Visa, you must secure a job offer from a Japanese employer or a company operating in Japan that is involved in international services, such as translation, PR, or global sales. The position must be closely linked to international operations that require your specific skill set.
Applicants must have at least one of the following qualifications:
A university degree (bachelor’s or higher) related to the field of employment (e.g., business, communication, linguistics).
At least three years of relevant work experience in the specific field you are applying for. This could be experience in international business, language services, public relations, or any other international profession.
Some exceptions are made for individuals applying for roles in the fashion industry (e.g., models), where educational qualifications are less important, and work experience or professional reputation may suffice.
While the job itself may involve international services, having some level of Japanese language proficiency can greatly increase your chances of securing the visa and succeeding in your role. Some employers may require a basic level of communication in Japanese, though proficiency levels vary depending on the job.
It is not always mandatory for visa approval, but it’s advantageous for work and social integration.
You must provide a contract or offer letter from your employer in Japan, detailing your role and salary. The salary must be competitive and commensurate with your role to ensure you can support yourself while living in Japan.
The government requires that your job and income meet a certain standard to avoid exploitation and ensure that foreign workers live comfortably.
As with most work visas, applicants must undergo a health examination to prove that they are physically fit for employment.
Applicants must also have a clean criminal record. Any previous deportation or serious criminal conviction may disqualify you from obtaining the visa.