What is Specified Skilled Worker Program in Japan?
The benefits and opportunities offered by Japan's Specified Skilled Worker Program.
A Guide to the Specified Skilled Worker Program
Japan is increasingly opening its doors to talented foreign professionals through the Specified Skilled Worker Program. Designed to fill gaps in Japan’s labor market, this program provides a unique opportunity for foreign nationals to live and work in Japan under a specialized status of residence.
Understanding the Specified Skilled Worker Status of Residence
The Specified Skilled Worker status of residence is a work-oriented visa category established to address labor shortages in key industries. Unlike the Technical Intern Training program—which focuses on skill acquisition—the Specified Skilled Worker program is geared toward employment. Applicants gain not only the chance to work but also to experience life in Japan with competitive wages and support tailored to their needs.
Types of Specified Skilled Worker Status: (i) and (ii)
Specified Skilled Worker (i)
The Specified Skilled Worker (i) status offers several important benefits:
- Duration of Stay: Allows you to work in Japan for up to five years.
- Compensation: You receive the same salary as your Japanese counterparts.
- Language Training: Japanese language training is provided to help you adapt.
- Company Support: You receive various forms of assistance from your employer.
However, there are some limitations with this type:
- Family Restrictions: You cannot bring your family with you under this status.
Specified Skilled Worker (ii)
For those with more specialized skills, the Specified Skilled Worker (ii) status offers enhanced benefits:
- Unlimited Stay: There is no upper limit to how long you can remain in Japan.
- Family Reunification: You are allowed to bring your family, making it an ideal option for those seeking a long-term relocation.
- Higher Skill Requirement: This status requires more advanced and specialized skills compared to type (i).
Employment Fields Covered by Specified Skilled Worker (i)
The Specified Skilled Worker (i) program covers 16 key fields, providing opportunities in diverse sectors:
- Nursing Care: Jobs providing assistance for elderly or physically challenged individuals.
- Building Cleaning Management: Positions focused on cleaning inside buildings.
- Construction Industry: Work related to constructing houses, buildings, and other structures.
- Industrial Product Manufacturing: Jobs that involve creating various components.
- Shipbuilding and Ship Machinery Industries: Opportunities in ship construction.
- Automobile Repair and Maintenance: Jobs for inspecting and maintaining vehicles.
- Aviation Industry: Positions in transporting baggage and maintaining airplanes.
- Accommodation Industry: Roles in hotel reception and guest services.
- Automobile Transportation Business: Jobs as drivers for trucks and taxis, transporting goods and people.
- Railway: Maintenance and operation of trains and rail systems.
- Agriculture Industry: Involves growing produce and raising livestock.
- Fishery and Aquaculture Industries: Jobs catching or raising fish.
- Food and Beverage Manufacturing Industries: Positions in food preparation.
- Food Service Industry: Jobs in restaurants and similar establishments.
- Forestry: Involves tree-planting and forest management.
- Wood Industry: Focused on lumber processing.
Employment Fields Covered by Specified Skilled Worker (ii)
The Specified Skilled Worker (ii) program is designed for supervisory roles and covers 11 fields, emphasizing management positions:
- Building Cleaning Management: Overseeing cleaning operations in buildings.
- Construction Industry: Managing construction projects.
- Industrial Product Manufacturing: Supervising the production of components.
- Shipbuilding and Ship Machinery Industries: Managing ship construction projects.
- Automobile Repair and Maintenance: Overseeing vehicle inspections and repairs.
- Aviation Industry: Supervising baggage transport and airplane maintenance.
- Accommodation Industry: Managing hotel reception and guest services.
- Agriculture Industry: Overseeing agricultural production and livestock management.
- Fishery and Aquaculture Industries: Managing fish catching and aquaculture.
- Food and Beverage Manufacturing Industries: Supervising food production processes.
- Food Service Industry: Managing restaurant operations and customer service.
These roles require a higher level of expertise and are ideal for professionals seeking long-term careers in Japan.
Steps to Obtain the Specified Skilled Worker Status
Proficiency Tests and Eligibility
To qualify for the Specified Skilled Worker (i) status, you must pass two critical tests:
- Japanese Language Test: To ensure you can communicate effectively.
- Skills Proficiency Test: To validate your expertise in your chosen field.
Note: Applicants who have satisfactorily completed Technical Intern Training (ii) may be exempt from these tests for the same field. However, if you wish to work in a different field, you will need to pass a new skills proficiency test.
Application Process
Whether you’re outside Japan or already living in the country, the process involves:
- Passing the Tests: Complete the Japanese language and skills proficiency tests.
- Signing a Contract: Secure a job offer by signing a contract with a Japanese company.
- Submitting the Application: Apply for your status of residence at the Immigration office with the required documents.
For international students or technical intern trainees already in Japan, the process is similar. If you are switching employers or fields, ensure you meet the necessary requirements and consult with your employer regarding any specific documentation.
Company Support for Foreign Nationals
One of the strengths of the Specified Skilled Worker Program is the robust support provided by companies. Employers are required to assist foreign workers through 10 key support measures:
- Pre-Employment Explanation: Receive a detailed briefing on your job and contract before applying.
- Arrival and Departure Assistance: Companies offer airport pick-up upon arrival and help with departure procedures.
- Housing and Utility Setup: Assistance with housing contracts, utilities (electricity, gas), and bank account setup.
- Orientation Sessions: Learn about Japanese living rules, transportation, and emergency procedures.
- Administrative Assistance: Help with city hall visits and tax or insurance paperwork.
- Japanese Language Support: Guidance on finding language schools and improving your language skills.
- Regular Meetings: Periodic meetings to address any work-related issues or concerns.
- Cultural Integration: Support for engaging with local communities and participating in festivals.
- Job Transition Support: Assistance in finding new employment if necessary.
- Continuous Communication: Regular check-ins by a company-appointed manager to ensure your well-being.
If you ever feel that your company is not providing the promised support, you are encouraged to contact the nearest Immigration office or the Foreign Workers Consultation Service.
Required Documents and Additional Procedures
When applying for the Specified Skilled Worker status, you must prepare a range of documents, including:
- Application Form: Completed by both you and your company.
- Medical Examination Report: Obtained from a hospital.
- Pension, Health Insurance, and Tax Documents: Such as tax certificates, withholding tax slips, and National Health Insurance documents.
- Test Certificates: Proof of passing the Japanese language and skills proficiency tests.
- Additional Documents: For individuals from countries like Cambodia, Thailand, and Vietnam, further documentation as required by the bilateral memorandum of cooperation may be necessary.
These documents, along with company-specific paperwork, can be downloaded from the Immigration Services Agency of Japan’s website. Always consult with your company before beginning the application process.
A Gateway to a Rewarding Career and Life in Japan
The Specified Skilled Worker Program opens a gateway to a rewarding career and life in Japan. Whether you are looking for a five-year opportunity under type (i) or a long-term career with family support under type (ii), understanding the requirements and available support is crucial. By following the outlined steps—from proficiency tests to company support and documentation—you can take a significant step toward achieving your dream of working in Japan. Embrace this opportunity to enhance your career, immerse yourself in a new culture, and build a future in one of the world’s most dynamic economies.
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