Japan · work sponsored
Specified Skilled Worker Type 1 (SSW-1 / 特定技能1号)
By Sam Parks · Last reviewed:
Work visa for skilled workers in 16 designated industries — requires passing a skills test and Japanese language test (JLPT N4+).
- 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
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.
Guidance by nationality
Specific information for applicants from these countries. Don’t see yours? The general eligibility criteria above apply to everyone.
Vietnamese applicants
Vietnamese nationals are the largest SSW-1 cohort. Vietnam has a dedicated MOC with Japan and the Vietnamese government …
Filipino applicants
Filipino SSW-1 holders concentrate in nursing care, food services, and manufacturing. The Philippines has an active MOC …
Indonesian applicants
Indonesian SSW-1 holders are concentrated in nursing care, agriculture, and manufacturing. Indonesia has a well-establis…
Indian applicants
India signed an MOC with Japan in 2021. Indian SSW-1 numbers are growing but remain smaller than Vietnam and Philippines…
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.
Official application links
Where to actually go next
These are the official pages to use for this route. Open them before preparing documents: the forms, fees, appointment systems, and sponsor steps can change without warning.
- ChecklistApplicant + sponsorCheck SSW required documents ↗
Worker and accepting organisation confirm test certificates, support-plan evidence, and COE documents for SSW status.
Immigration Services Agency (ISA) · verified
- Official guidanceApplicantApply for visa with COE ↗
Applicant uses the COE to file the entry visa application at the competent Japanese embassy or consulate.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan (MOFA) · verified
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Frequently asked questions
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.
Need tailored advice?
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