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Specified Skilled Worker (SSW)
Comprehensive guide to the SSW program, visa regulations, and the 16 specified industrial fields of Japan.
What is the SSW (Specified Skilled Worker)?
The Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) is a status of residence introduced by the Japanese government to accept foreign nationals who have necessary occupational skills and basic Japanese proficiency to work immediately in specific industrial sectors facing labor shortages, without requiring long-term on-the-job training.
Candidates who have satisfactorily completed Japan's Technical Intern Training (ii) are exempt from taking the occupational skill exams and Japanese language tests, allowing them to switch their status of residence directly to SSW (i) in the same field.
Eligibility Highlights
1. Visa (Ministry of Foreign Affairs)
Foreign nationals intending to enter Japan must first acquire a "Visa" at the Embassy of Japan (or official VFS Global service center) in their home country. Obtaining a visa confirms that your passport is valid and your entry is recommended, but does not guarantee final admission.
2. Status of Residence (Immigration Bureau)
Upon landing in Japan, airport immigration inspectors evaluate your purpose of travel under the jurisdiction of the Immigration Services Agency of Japan. Once cleared, you receive a "Status of Residence" card specifying the activities you are legally allowed to perform.
The 16 Specified Industry Fields
Foreign nationals can work under SSW in the following 16 industrial categories. Note that only SSW (i) is available for Nursing Care, Automobile Transportation, Railway, Forestry, and Wood Industry.
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Nursing Care
Nursing Care assistance (bathing, feeding, excretion) responding to physical and mental conditions, plus related support (recreation, training).
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Building Cleaning Management
Professional interior building cleaning and hygiene maintenance of commercial spaces, offices, and hotels.
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Manufacture of Industrial Products
Machining, metal processing, electric/electronic assembly, metal surface treatment, carton box making, pottery, printing, book binding, sewing.
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Construction Industry
Civil engineering, residential/commercial building constructions, infrastructure facilities and equipment installation.
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Shipbuilding and Ship Machinery Industry
Shipbuilding operations, machinery manufacturing, and installation of ship electrical and electronic equipment.
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Automobile Repair and Maintenance
Automobile daily maintenance, regular maintenance, certified maintenance, and incidental certified maintenance works.
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Aviation Industry
Airport ground handling (ground driving, baggage/freight handling, ramp operations) and aircraft maintenance.
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Accommodation Industry
Providing front desk reception services, PR/planning, hospitality, and restaurant services inside hotel facilities.
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Automobile Transportation Business
Professional driving of motor trucks, taxis, and buses. (JSC specializes in Truck Driving preparation).
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Railway
Track construction/maintenance, electrical systems construction, rolling stock overhaul, manufacturing, and train operations.
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Agriculture
General crop farming (cultivation, collection, shipping, sorting) and general livestock farming (breed management, collection).
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Fishery and Aquaculture Industries
Fishery operations (fishing gear repair, capturing marine animals, processing) and aquaculture breed/material management.
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Manufacture of Food and Beverages
General food and beverage manufacturing, processing, and food hygiene safety (excluding liquor).
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Food Service Industry
General restaurant industry operations, food and beverage processing, customer service, and store management.
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Forestry
Silviculture, production of logs, and forestry management operations.
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Wood Industry
Wood processing in sawmilling, plywood manufacturing, and timber processing industries.
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