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Work in Japan

Build your skills. Prepare for Japan.

Explore the Specified Skilled Worker pathway and understand how your sector, Japanese language skills and preparation fit together.

A practical starting point for candidates exploring care work, manufacturing and skilled trades.

This guide focuses on the Specified Skilled Worker system. Other Japanese work statuses have different requirements.

On this page

01 / Understand the pathway

What is Specified Skilled Worker?

Specified Skilled Worker, or SSW, is a Japanese status of residence for employment in designated industrial fields. It has two categories with different skill and residence conditions.

SSW (i)

Generally allows a cumulative stay of up to five years. Bringing a spouse or children as dependants is generally not permitted under this status. Workers receive designated support from their employer or a registered support organisation.

SSW (ii)

For more advanced skills in eligible fields. Renewals have no overall maximum stay limit, and a spouse and children may accompany the worker subject to the applicable conditions.

Moving from SSW (i) to SSW (ii) is not automatic. Field coverage and qualification requirements differ. Neither status automatically grants permanent residence.

Understand the SSW System (opens in a new tab)

02 / Find your starting point

Choose a sector to understand the preparation.

Start with the type of work you want to do. These examples explain selected SSW fields; they are not current vacancies or a complete list of eligible occupations.

Care work — supporting daily life.

The SSW Nursing Care field involves assistance with daily living and related care tasks. Do not confuse this field with permission to practise as a registered nurse in Japan.

Examples

  • Support with eating, bathing and other daily activities.
  • Assistance with movement and everyday routines.
  • Care-related support within the permitted scope of the role.

Preparation

Applicants generally need the Nursing Care Skills Evaluation Test, a qualifying general Japanese-language result, and the Nursing Care Japanese Language Evaluation Test. Specific exemptions may apply depending on previous training.

Practical first step

Read the role carefully and check the care-specific tests before choosing a preparation course.

Official Care Work Requirements (opens in a new tab)

Language and skills are two separate preparations.

Passing a language test alone does not complete the SSW requirements.

Japanese language
Many SSW (i) fields use JFT-Basic or JLPT N4 or higher. Some occupations require a higher level or additional language testing. Check the exact field.
Sector skills
The relevant skills assessment tests the work required in your chosen field. Confirm the test category, format and permitted test locations.
Exemptions and availability
Certain candidates who have satisfactorily completed Technical Intern Training (ii) may qualify for exemptions. These depend on their training and intended field. Check the official rules and actual exam availability.

An exam pass is not a job offer or an immigration approval.

Check Official Test Information (opens in a new tab)

03 / Plan the process

From choosing a sector to starting work.

The sequence below is a planning guide for candidates applying from overseas. Some preparation and job-search activities can happen in parallel.

  1. Step 1: Check your starting position

    Choose a field and check country-specific procedures, test access and any requirements relating to sending organisations.

  2. Step 2: Prepare your assessments

    Plan your Japanese study and sector test preparation. Confirm whether a documented exemption applies.

  3. Step 3: Find an employer and review the offer

    Discuss duties, location and employment conditions. Understand the written terms before signing.

  4. Step 4: Complete the immigration process

    For an overseas application, the process generally involves a Certificate of Eligibility followed by a visa application through the relevant Japanese embassy or consulate. Coordinate the required documents with your employer.

  5. Step 5: Prepare for arrival

    Confirm travel, accommodation, orientation and support arrangements before departure.

Applicants already in Japan may follow a different procedure. Immigration decisions are made by the Japanese authorities.

Read the Official Step-by-Step Guide (opens in a new tab)

04 / Look beyond the job title

Before you accept, understand the everyday details.

  • Your actual work

    Which duties will you perform, and do they match the permitted work category?

  • Pay and deductions

    What is the gross pay? Which taxes, insurance contributions, accommodation charges or other deductions may apply?

  • Hours and location

    What are the shifts, overtime arrangements, days off and work location?

  • Housing and initial costs

    Who arranges accommodation, what will it cost, and which expenses must you cover before your first salary?

  • Support and communication

    Who is your support contact, in which language can you communicate, and how can you raise a concern?

  • Documents and payments

    Keep copies of your contract and payment records. Ask for a written explanation of any fee before paying.

Your document list depends on whether you apply from overseas or already reside in Japan. Use the official checklist and your employer’s instructions.

Check Required Documents (opens in a new tab)

Make your experience visible.

If you would like us to reach out when opportunities related to your profession come up, join our candidate pool. Share your work history, practical skills, language level and career interests.

Creating a profile is not an SSW application and does not guarantee a job or visa.

Join Our Candidate Pool

What candidates often ask.

Do I need Japanese?

Generally, yes. SSW (i) normally requires evidence of Japanese ability unless an applicable exemption applies. The required test or level depends on the field.

Is care work the same as registered nursing?

No. This guide’s care section covers the SSW Nursing Care field. It should not be treated as a guide to registered-nurse licensing.

Does passing the tests guarantee a job?

No. Test results do not replace an employment contract or immigration approval.

Can I bring my family?

Family arrangements depend on the residence category. Review the SSW (i) and SSW (ii) distinction above and confirm your circumstances through official guidance.

Is SSW a route for studying in Japan?

SSW is an employment status. Study and other training arrangements have separate rules.

Are the sectors on this page current vacancies?

No. They explain selected work fields rather than current vacancies. Check the official SSW field directory for the latest coverage and application notices.

How long does the process take?

There is no single end-to-end timeline. Language preparation, test availability, recruitment and immigration processing vary.

Can I read this guide without registering?

Yes. The guide and official resources are available without an account.

This guide provides general information about selected work pathways. Requirements and application availability can change. Confirm current conditions with the relevant Japanese authorities and official test providers before applying or making travel arrangements.