Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) Program

What is SSW?

The Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) program is an initiative introduced by Japan in April 2019, designed to address labor shortages by inviting foreign workers with specific skills to fill roles in key industries. This program allows individuals to work in Japan’s healthcare, construction, manufacturing, and other sectors that need skilled labor.

The SSW program is divided into two categories:

  • SSW (i) for workers with foundational skills in their field
  • SSW (ii) for those with advanced expertise, offering extended stays and family relocation benefits.

Applicants must be at least 18 years old, in good health, and able to perform their work with minimal additional training.

Why Choose SSW?

The SSW program provides a valuable opportunity to live and work in Japan, a country known for its economic stability and high quality of life. Whether you are aiming to work in nursing, food service, construction, or other industries, the SSW program opens doors to a fulfilling career in Japan.

For SSW (i) workers, support is provided for housing, banking, and language skills, helping you integrate smoothly into Japanese society. Those transitioning from Japan's Technical Intern Training Program (TITP) can advance to SSW (i) without additional testing. SSW (ii) offers extended residency and the possibility to bring family members, enhancing both career and personal growth.

What Jobs Can You Do with SSW?

The SSW program covers various industries with high demand for skilled workers, such as:

  • SSW Nursing Care : Providing care in healthcare facilities, offering support to elderly and disabled individuals.
  • SSW Food Service: Jobs in restaurants and food establishments, focusing on culinary skills and customer service.
  • SSW Aviation: Roles in airport operations, including ground handling and aircraft maintenance.
  • SSW Hotel Accommodation: Working in hotels and inns, providing excellent hospitality and guest services.
  • SSW Driving: Driving roles in transportation, including truck and taxi driving.
  • SSW Construction: Positions in construction and maintenance, focusing on hands-on skills and site safety.

Additional sectors such as manufacturing and agriculture are also part of the program. Each job category requires passing specific skills tests.

How to Apply for SSW

To apply for an SSW (i) visa, you need to follow these steps:

1. Assess Eligibility and Skills

Ensure you meet the basic criteria: age 18 or older, good health, and relevant skills or experience in a designated field (e.g., nursing, construction). Those with TITP experience may bypass additional testing.

2. Pass Skills and Language Tests

You must pass a skills evaluation test specific to your industry (e.g., Nursing Care Skills Evaluation Test or Construction Skills Test). Additionally, basic Japanese language proficiency (JLPT N4 or JFT-Basic) is required, with extra tests for nursing care applicants.

3. Secure Employment

Find a Japanese company or organization registered as an Accepting Organization to hire SSW workers. They must offer you a job contract outlining your role, wages, and conditions. Getlink Japanese Language Center can assist with connecting you to potential employers.

4. Prepare Application Documents

You will need the following documents:

  • Valid passport
  • Skills test certificate
  • Japanese language test results (JLPT N4 or JFT-Basic)
  • Employment contract
  • Health certificate
  • Personal history form
5. Obtain Certificate of Eligibility (COE)

Your employer will submit your application for the COE to Japan’s Immigration Services Agency. This step can take 1-3 months. Once approved, the COE will be sent to you.

6. Apply for the SSW Visa

With the COE, apply for your SSW visa at a Japanese embassy or consulate. This requires submitting your passport, visa application form, passport-sized photo, COE, employment contract, and test certificates. Processing usually takes 5-10 business days.

7. Travel to Japan

Once your visa is approved, you can travel to Japan. Immigration will issue your Residence Card upon arrival, which allows you to work in Japan for up to 1 year (renewable for up to 5 years).

8. Register and Begin Work

Upon arrival in Japan, register at your local municipal office and enroll in National Health Insurance. Your employer will provide orientation and ensure a smooth transition into your new role. For SSW (ii) workers, additional testing and COE renewal will be needed after gaining experience.

Begin Your Journey

At Getlink Japanese Language Center, we are dedicated to supporting your path to Japan through language training, skills preparation, and employer connections. Whether you’re preparing for the SSW Nursing, Construction, or Food Service programs, we provide the guidance you need for a successful career in Japan.

For more information or to get started with the SSW program, contact us today!