Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) is a Status of Residence introduced in April 2019 to address Japan’s labor shortage by accepting foreign workers who have proven skills and (for Type 1) basic Japanese ability.
At Tommy’s Legal Service (Yokohama), we support both foreign nationals and employers with SSW procedures, compliance, and practical guidance.
Two Types: SSW (i) and SSW (ii)
| Item | SSW (i) / Type 1 | SSW (ii) / Type 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Workers with considerable knowledge/experience in designated industry fields | Workers with proficient skills in designated industry fields |
| Period of stay | Renewable; up to 5 years total | Renewable; no upper limit |
| Skill verification | By exam, etc. (some may be exempt depending on pathway) | By exam, etc. |
| Japanese requirement | Japanese proficiency is required and confirmed by tests, etc. | No requirement to confirm by tests |
| Family accompaniment | Basically not permitted | Possible if requirements are met (spouse/children) |
| Support plan / RSO | Support by accepting organization or a Registered Support Organization (RSO) is applicable | Not applicable |
Reference: official overview pages of the Government of Japan and Immigration Services Agency. (SSW has two types and covers 16 industrial fields; some fields are Type 1 only.)
Eligible Industry Fields (Overview)
SSW covers 16 designated industry fields. Note that in some fields, only SSW (i) is available (e.g., Nursing Care, Automobile Transportation Business, Railway, Forestry, Wood Industry).
(See official overview for the full list and details.)
Typical Pathways to SSW
1) From overseas (exams → contract → COE / visa → landing)
- Pass required skill exam(s) and Japanese exam(s) (Type 1)
- Sign an employment contract with an accepting organization
- Prepare documents and apply (COE or visa/status procedures depending on the case)
2) From another status in Japan (Change of Status)
- For example: student, dependent, or other work statuses (case-by-case)
- Exams/requirements depend on industry and individual background
How We Support You
For Foreign Nationals
- Document check and strategy (best pathway, risks, timelines)
- Preparation of application package (Change/Extension/COE where applicable)
- Guidance on employment documents (contract, job description, salary, working conditions)
For Employers / Accepting Organizations
- Compliance-focused document preparation and review
- SSW Type 1 support-plan structure (if applicable) and operational advice
- Practical communication support (English-friendly explanations)
Important: SSW applications often fail due to inconsistencies between job duties, industry scope, employment terms, and supporting documents. We focus on a clean, consistent narrative with evidence.
FAQ
Is SSW a “visa”?
SSW is a Status of Residence in Japan. A “visa” and a “status of residence” are different procedures handled by different authorities.
Can I bring my family?
Generally, SSW (i) does not allow family accompaniment. SSW (ii) may allow spouse/children if requirements are met.
How long does it take?
It depends on your current location (inside/outside Japan), industry, exam schedule, and document readiness. We will propose a realistic plan after an initial review.
Contact
If you want to work or hire under the SSW program, please contact us here:
Tommy’s Legal Service
102, THE HUB Yokohama Motomachi, 1-13-2 Ishikawa, Naka-ward, Yokohama, 231-0868
TEL: 045-550-5135