Vietnamese applicants · Japan
Specified Skilled Worker Type 1 (SSW-1 / 特定技能1号) for Vietnamese citizens
Work visa for skilled workers in 16 designated industries — requires passing a skills test and Japanese language test (JLPT N4+).
This page covers the Specified Skilled Worker Type 1 (SSW-1 / 特定技能1号) specifically for Vietnamese applicants — including document requirements, consular procedures, and common issues specific to Vietnam. The general eligibility criteria apply to everyone.
- Processing time
- 2–6 weeks for COE.
- Government fees
- COE: free; visa fee varies; skills-test fee ¥6,000–¥8,000.
- Typical duration
- Up to 5 years total (not renewable beyond 5 years — must transition to SSW-2 or another status).
- Sponsorship required
- Yes
- Leads to permanent residency
- No
Bilateral context
No nationality-specific treaty frameworks apply to this combination.
Consular processing: a Japan consulate or visa application centre in your country of residence
Tourist entry vs. this route
Vietnamese nationals require a visa for any entry into Japan. The Specified Skilled Worker Type 1 (SSW-1 / 特定技能1号) is one of the routes available; tourist entry is a separate application.
Visa overview
The Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) Type 1 visa was introduced in 2019 and significantly expanded in 2024. It covers 16 designated industries including nursing care, agriculture, construction, food services, manufacturing, hospitality, and more. Applicants must pass an industry-specific skills test and a Japanese language test (JLPT N4 or equivalent). SSW-1 does not lead directly to permanent residence and is limited to 5 years. However, holders can transition to SSW-2 (which does lead to PR) in construction, shipbuilding, and other qualifying sectors.
Eligibility
Typical criteria
- ✓Pass the industry-specific skills evaluation test for your designated industry.
- ✓Pass the Japanese Language Proficiency Test at N4 level or above (or the JFT-Basic test).
- ✓Job offer from a Japanese employer in a designated industry.
- ✓Nationality from a country with a bilateral Memorandum of Cooperation (MOC) with Japan (currently 16 countries).
Common blockers
- !Failed skills test or language test.
- !Country not covered by an MOC (though some countries can apply without MOC — check ISA guidance).
- !Former Technical Intern Training (TIT) participants who did not complete their programme may face restrictions.
Typical evidence
- ·Skills test pass certificate.
- ·JLPT N4+ or JFT-Basic pass certificate.
- ·Employment contract.
- ·Employer's support plan for the SSW worker.
Application pathway
Pass the skills and language tests
Take the industry-specific skills test (held in Japan and some partner countries) and the JLPT N4 or JFT-Basic.
Secure a job offer
The employer must be in a designated industry and submit a support plan.
Apply for COE and visa
Employer applies for COE; you apply for visa at consulate.
Work for up to 5 years
SSW-1 allows up to 5 years in total. To stay longer, transition to SSW-2 (if available in your sector) or another visa status.
Other Japan routes covered for Vietnamese applicants
Engineer / Specialist in Humanities / International Services
Japan's most common work visa for knowledge workers — engineers, IT professionals, translators, designers, and business staff.
Student Visa (留学)
Visa for international students at Japanese universities, language schools, and vocational institutions — includes part-time work rights.
Not sure Japan is right for you? Compare similar routes
Other countries offer work sponsored routes that Vietnamese nationals also apply to. See how they compare.
- United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
Vietnamese applicants — work sponsored routes
- Republic of Ireland
Vietnamese applicants — work sponsored routes
- Federal Republic of Germany
Vietnamese applicants — work sponsored routes
- Portuguese Republic
Vietnamese applicants — work sponsored routes
Frequently asked questions
Are Vietnamese citizens eligible for the Specified Skilled Worker Type 1 (SSW-1 / 特定技能1号)?+
Eligibility for the Specified Skilled Worker Type 1 (SSW-1 / 特定技能1号) is set by ISA and is not nationality-restricted. See the criteria below for the published requirements.
Where do Vietnamese applicants typically file the Specified Skilled Worker Type 1 (SSW-1 / 特定技能1号)?+
a Japan consulate or visa application centre in your country of residence. Specific intake (online portal, biometrics centre, or in-country lodgement) is determined by ISA — confirm the current intake channel on the primary source linked above before filing.
Do Vietnamese applicants need a tourist visa for Japan as well?+
Vietnamese nationals require a visa for any entry into Japan. The Specified Skilled Worker Type 1 (SSW-1 / 特定技能1号) is one of the routes available; tourist entry is a separate application.
Can SSW-1 lead to permanent residence?+
SSW-1 itself does not lead to PR and is limited to 5 years. However, some sectors now offer SSW-2, which does lead to PR. The 2024 expansion significantly broadened SSW-2 eligibility across more industries. Check the ISA website for the current list of SSW-2-eligible sectors.
Which countries have MOC agreements with Japan for SSW?+
As of 2024: Vietnam, Philippines, Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Thailand, Myanmar, Nepal, Mongolia, Sri Lanka, India, Bangladesh, Uzbekistan, Pakistan, Kenya, and Laos. The list is periodically expanded.
Can I bring my family on SSW-1?+
No. SSW-1 holders cannot bring family members. SSW-2 holders can bring spouses and children. This is one of the key differences between the two tiers.