What Is the Specified Skilled Worker Status?

Specified Skilled Worker is a residence status introduced to accept overseas talent as immediate contributors in sectors facing serious labour shortages in Japan. Individuals who meet criteria set by the Japanese government can work in Japan under this status.

Background and key features

The Specified Skilled Worker framework was introduced in 2019 to address domestic labour shortages by accepting overseas workers who can contribute immediately. Unlike the Technical Intern Training Programme, this status is designed for engagement in practical work.

There are two main categories under this residence status: Type 1 and Type 2. Type 1 is for personnel with foundational skills and allows a total stay of up to five years. Type 2 is for personnel with more advanced skills and may allow long-term stay through renewals.

Support provided by JAPAN POLARIS

We provide the following support so that employers can accept Specified Skilled Workers with confidence:

• Candidate introduction and matching support for Specified Skilled Worker recruitment
• Preparation and submission support for residence status application documents
• Coordination and liaison support with the Immigration Services Agency
• Guidance on verifying required skills and Japanese language proficiency
• Post-entry living support and follow-up (Registered Support Organisation services)

About the residence status

To obtain this residence status, applicants must satisfy prescribed requirements, including skill level and Japanese language ability. In some cases, passing relevant examinations is required. People who have completed Technical Intern Training (ii) may be exempt from part of these requirements.

Type 1 allows residence for up to five years in total and, in principle, does not permit family accompaniment. Type 2 has no upper limit on the period of stay and may permit family accompaniment in certain cases.

Related support services

• ・Registered Support Organisation Services
• ・Post-entry Support