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Specified Skilled Worker Residence Status Application Method

Updated：2026/8/8

To work under SSW, passing the exam is not enough. You also need an employment contract, a support plan, and residence status procedures. The required application differs for people coming from overseas, people in Japan, and people renewing.

Required documents may change, so always check the latest information on the Immigration Services Agency official website.

Things to Finish Before Applying
  • The company you will work for has been decided, and you have signed an employment contract.
  • You have attended pre-application guidance
  • You are preparing the required documents, such as health check documents
  • The company is preparing the support plan for SSW(i) foreign nationals
  • You have checked additional documents for each field, council membership, and related requirements.
Type of application

1. If you come to Japan from overseas

In many cases, the accepting company or another party applies in Japan for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE). After the COE is issued, you apply for a visa at the Japanese embassy or consulate in your country.

2. If a person in Japan changes status to SSW

Students, technical interns, designated activities holders, and others in Japan apply for permission to change status of residence at the Regional Immigration Services Bureau after signing an employment contract with the company.

3. If Continuing to Work under SSW

If you are already working under SSW and continue working with the same residence status, you apply for permission to renew the period of stay. For renewal, employment contract, support status, tax payment status, and field-specific required documents are also checked.

What the Applicant Should Check
  • Passport, residence card, and photo
  • Proof of Passing the Japanese Language and Skills Tests
  • Documents related to the health check
  • Documents depending on your situation, such as personal history, work history, and certificate of completion of technical intern training
  • For people in Japan, check resident tax, tax payments, social insurance, and activities outside the scope of their status of residence.
Main Items Prepared by the Company
  • Documents related to the employment contract
  • Explanation that pay is equal to or higher than that of Japanese workers
  • Support Plan for SSW (i) Foreign Nationals
  • Company profile, financial statements, tax payment, and social insurance documents
  • Additional documents for each field
Next steps for people coming from overseas

After the COE is issued, the applicant applies for a visa at the Japanese embassy or consulate for the country or region where they live.

Official Information