JapanWhat is Specified Skilled Worker visa?
The Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) visa is a Japanese residence status for foreign nationals with specific vocational skills in designated industries, introduced to address labor shortages.
What the Law Says
The Specified Skilled Worker visa is established under Japan’s Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act, as amended to create two new residence statuses: 'Specified Skilled Worker 1' and 'Specified Skilled Worker 2'. These statuses are designed for foreign workers who possess practical skills in designated sectors facing labor shortages.
The SSW system was created by amendments to the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act in 2018 and implemented on April 1, 2019. It applies only to 14 designated industries — including construction, agriculture, nursing care, food service, and accommodation — where Japan faces acute labor shortages.
To qualify for Specified Skilled Worker 1, applicants must pass both a Japanese language proficiency test (minimum JLPT N4 or equivalent) and a skill evaluation test specific to their industry. For Specified Skilled Worker 2, higher skill levels are required, and holders may bring family members and apply for permanent residence.
Specified Skilled Worker 1 permits an initial stay of up to 5 years, with no right to renew beyond that term unless upgraded to SSW2. SSW2 has no maximum stay limit and allows for indefinite renewal.
Statutory TextA foreign national who possesses a certain level of knowledge or skills in a field designated by the Minister of Justice… may be granted the status of residence of ‘Specified Skilled Worker 1’.
— Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act, s. 22-3 — Status of Residence
Statutory TextA foreign national who possesses a higher level of knowledge or skills than those required for ‘Specified Skilled Worker 1’… may be granted the status of residence of ‘Specified Skilled Worker 2’.
— Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act, s. 22-4 — Status of Residence
What to Do
Confirm your occupation is in one of the 14 designated sectors listed by the Ministry of Justice.
Pass the relevant industry-specific skill test and Japanese language test (JLPT N4 or equivalent for SSW1).
Obtain a certificate of eligibility (COE) from a Japanese employer or registered support organization.
Apply for the visa at a Japanese embassy or consulate abroad.
After arrival, register residence at your local municipal office within 14 days.
Sources
Not legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-08.