Latest Updates on the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) Visa Program in Japan
👉 特定技能の最新動向まとめ（2026年対応）
Key Changes for 2025–2026 Explained by an Immigration Specialist
Japan continues to expand the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) visa program to address serious labor shortages.
At the same time, immigration screening and compliance checks are becoming stricter.
This article explains the latest updates for 2025–2026, focusing on industry expansion, the transition to SSW Type 2, and key compliance points for employers and foreign workers.
What Is the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) Visa?
The Specified Skilled Worker visa allows foreign nationals with verified skills and basic Japanese language ability to work in designated labor-shortage industries in Japan.
Unlike the Technical Intern Training Program, the SSW system is designed for immediate employment as part of the workforce.
Expanded to 16 Industry Sectors
As of 2025, the SSW program covers 16 industry sectors, including:
- Nursing care
- Construction
- Manufacturing
- Agriculture and fisheries
- Food and beverage manufacturing
- Restaurant services
- Accommodation (hospitality)
- Automobile maintenance
- Automobile transportation (new)
- Railway services (new)
- Forestry and wood industries (new)
Newly added sectors place greater emphasis on safety training and Japanese language ability.
Requirements for SSW Type 1
Japanese Language Proficiency
Applicants must pass:
- JLPT N4 or higher, or
- The Japan Foundation Basic Japanese Test
Skills Examination
- Applicants must pass an industry-specific skills test.
⚠️ Passing only one of these requirements is not sufficient.
Expansion of SSW Type 2 (Very Important)
Japan is actively promoting the transition from SSW Type 1 to SSW Type 2.
Benefits of SSW Type 2
- No limit on visa renewals
- Family members may accompany the worker
- A realistic pathway toward permanent residence
With the exception of nursing care, most sectors are now eligible for SSW Type 2.
Stricter Screening and Compliance (2026 Outlook)
Employer Screening
- Business legitimacy and operational stability
- Consistency between job description and actual duties
- Proper enrollment in social insurance systems
Registered Support Organizations
- Actual implementation of support plans
- Monthly interviews and documented assistance records
- Increased scrutiny of improper support fees
Crackdown on Brokers
Applications involving:
- Excessive placement fees
- False job descriptions
- Mass applications through intermediaries
are highly likely to be rejected or revoked.
Changing Employers Under SSW
Changing employers is allowed, but:
- The job must generally be in the same industry sector
- Lower employment conditions raise red flags
- Frequent job changes significantly increase risk
A clear explanation and supporting documents are essential.
Professional Insight
The SSW visa is not an “easy visa.”
Approval depends heavily on:
- Employer compliance
- Language ability
- Proper support systems
Planning for SSW Type 2 from the beginning is now essential.
Our Support Services
At Tommy’s Legal Service – Certified Administrative Procedures Legal Specialist Office, we provide:
- New SSW applications (Type 1 & Type 2)
- Visa renewals and employer changes
- Employer and support organization compliance checks
- Risk assessment for rejected or high-risk cases
Contact Us (English Support Available)
For consultations in English, please use our dedicated inquiry form:
👉 English Inquiry Form
https://gyosei-tominaga.com/english-inquiry-form/
Note
Immigration policies and practical screening standards change frequently.
We strongly recommend consulting a professional before submitting an application.
投稿者プロフィール
- 行政書士
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日系理化学機器輸入商社、日系センサーメーカー、外資系真空機器メーカー、外資系化学装置メーカーでの国内外業務を経て、令和2年度行政書士試験に合格。令和3年4月、トミーズリーガルサービス行政書士事務所を開業。
現在は入管業務（VISA・在留資格）を中心とした専門事務所として、外国人の雇用・受け入れ、企業の国際人材戦略、在留手続のオンライン申請支援を行う。
企業・個人いずれのクライアントにも寄り添い、迅速・丁寧で負担の少ない手続きをモットーとする。
また、国際業務の経験を生かし、英語での各種案内・申請支援にも対応。
趣味： バイク（GB350C）、ツーリング、Uber Eats 配達、テニス、ゴルフ
English:
After working in Japanese and foreign-affiliated companies in the fields of scientific instruments, sensors, vacuum equipment, and chemical processing machinery, I passed the national Administrative Scrivener examination in 2020 and founded Tommy’s Legal Service Administrative Scrivener Office in April 2021.
My practice is specialized in immigration procedures—visa applications, extensions, changes of status, and online filings for both companies and individuals. I support employers and foreign nationals with fast, accurate, and stress-free application processes.
English guidance and bilingual documentation are also available.
Hobbies: Motorcycles (Honda GB350C), touring, Uber Eats delivery, tennis, golf
