Understanding the Skilled Labor Visa (SSW)
The Japan Skilled Labor Visa, officially known as the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) visa, allows foreign nationals with specific skills to work in designated industries facing labor shortages in Japan. There are two main categories: SSW No. 1 (renewable, up to 5 years, no family) and SSW No. 2 (renewable, allows family, pathway to permanent residency).
Key Features:
- Work in 14+ eligible industries
- Skills and Japanese language test required
- SSW No. 1: Up to 5 years, SSW No. 2: Indefinite
- Pathway to permanent residency (SSW No. 2)
- Competitive salaries and benefits
Eligible Industries
SSW No. 1 Sectors:
- Nursing care
- Building cleaning
- Material processing
- Industrial machinery
- Electric/electronic info
- Construction
- Shipbuilding
- Automobile maintenance
- Agriculture
- Fishery & aquaculture
- Food & beverage manufacturing
- Food service
- Hospitality
- Aviation ground handling
SSW No. 2 Sectors:
- Construction
- Shipbuilding
- Automobile maintenance
- Other sectors (expanding)
Basic Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Age | 18+ years |
| Skills Test | Pass industry-specific exam |
| Language | Japanese (JLPT N4 or above) |
| Health | Good health, medical check |
| Background | No criminal record |
Required Documents
Personal Documents:
- Valid passport
- Application form
- Recent photos
- Skills test certificate
- JLPT certificate
- Medical certificate
Employment Documents:
- Job offer/contract
- Company registration
- Company tax documents
- Accommodation details
- Support plan (for SSW No. 1)
Application Process
- Pass skills and language tests
- Secure a job offer from a Japanese employer
- Gather required documents
- Employer applies for Certificate of Eligibility (CoE)
- Apply for visa at Japanese embassy/consulate
- Travel to Japan and start work
Employment Conditions & Benefits
- Full-time employment with Japanese labor rights
- Social insurance and health coverage
- Competitive salaries (varies by sector)
- Support for daily life (SSW No. 1)
- Pathway to SSW No. 2 and permanent residency
Common Challenges & Solutions
- Language barrier - Take Japanese classes, use translation apps
- Passing skills test - Use official study guides and practice exams
- Finding a job - Use government job boards and agencies
- Adapting to work culture - Attend orientation and seek support
- Housing - Ask employer for assistance or use expat resources