This page summarizes points that people who want to work in Japan under SSW often find confusing. Always check official pages for the latest exam schedule, application method, and required documents.
Jobs Available under Specified Skilled Worker
To work as Specified Skilled Worker (i), in principle, you need to pass a Japanese language test and a field-specific skills evaluation test. For the Japanese language test, JLPT N4 or higher, or JFT-Basic A2 or higher, is accepted. In the nursing care field, the Nursing Care Japanese Language Evaluation Test is also required. People who have successfully completed Technical Intern Training (ii) may be exempt from tests depending on the field and work content.
Q. Do people who completed Technical Intern Training No. 2 also need exams?
The conditions for obtaining Specified Skilled Worker status differ by field and past experience. In many cases, you need to check the Japanese language test and skills exam, but some people, such as those who successfully completed Technical Intern Training No. 2, may be exempt from exams.
Q. Which field should I choose?
First, check the job duties, Japanese level needed, physical strength, night shifts and shifts, work location, and how to read salary. Conversation skills are important in fields with much customer service, while safety checks and physical strength are important in construction, forestry, fishery, and similar fields.
Q. Is the average salary take-home pay?
The following amounts are the average monthly payment for SSW foreign workers in 2021, published in government materials. They are not take-home pay. View them as amounts before taxes, social insurance fees, dormitory fees, food costs, and other deductions.
Q. What should I check when looking for a company?
Before applying, check not only the monthly salary, but also the actual job content, working hours, days off, overtime pay, night shift allowance, dormitory fees, food costs, social insurance, transportation costs, qualification support, who will handle the residence status application, and the name of the registered support organization.
Check Registered Support Organizations and Support Services
A registered support organization supports daily life and procedures for people working under SSW No. 1. If you use one, check that it is listed in the Immigration Services Agency registry.
Q. Are COE and visa the same?
In general, to get a visa to work in Japan, you apply at the Japanese embassy or consulate responsible for your area after receiving a Certificate of Eligibility (COE).
Q. Do people in Japan also need to apply for a visa?
People already in Japan usually apply for permission to change status of residence at a Regional Immigration Services Bureau, instead of applying for a visa at a Japanese embassy overseas.