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JAPAN POLARIS Co., Ltd.
2019.04.01Policy Updates

Overview of the Specified Skilled Worker System

Introduced in April 2019, the Specified Skilled Worker status of residence allows foreign nationals to work in designated sectors of Japan facing labour shortages, under employment contracts with Japanese companies and with support from registered support organisations.

The "Specified Skilled Worker" status of residence, which supports the acceptance of foreign nationals into Japan's workforce, was created in April 2019 as a system for employing foreign nationals who can work immediately in industries facing serious labour shortages. It covers not only those transitioning from Technical Intern Training but also examination passers, and its distinguishing feature is that companies can accept foreign nationals by entering into a direct employment contract with them.

  • Eligible fields: 17 fields (as of July 2026) — including nursing care, construction, the food service industry, accommodation, agriculture and fisheries — are designated as eligible for Specified Skilled Worker (i), and of these, 11 fields also allow transition to Specified Skilled Worker (ii), which requires skilled expertise.
  • Specified Skilled Worker (i): A status of residence for work requiring a reasonable degree of knowledge or experience, with a cumulative period of stay capped, in principle, at 5 years.
  • Specified Skilled Worker (ii): Covers work requiring skilled expertise, with no cap on renewals of the period of stay, and accompaniment by a spouse and children is permitted where the requirements are met.
  • Employment contract: Foreign nationals enter into a direct employment contract with the accepting company (the organisation to which a Specified Skilled Worker belongs), which must meet certain standards, including remuneration equivalent to or greater than that paid to Japanese employees.
  • Registered Support Organisation: Support for the working and daily life of Specified Skilled Worker (i) foreign nationals is provided either by the accepting company itself or by outsourcing it to a "Registered Support Organisation" registered with the Immigration Services Agency of Japan.

As eligible fields and operational rules are revised from time to time as the system evolves, checking the latest information is essential.

Companies considering hiring foreign workers under the SSW system can see our Specified Skilled Worker support services.

Source: About the Specified Skilled Worker System / Specified Skilled Worker Status of Residence