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Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) Visa: Working in Japan

26/3/1

Thank you for visiting Aeternia Legal Associates.
This is Aeternia Legal Associates, Certified Administrative Procedures Legal Specialist Office.

If you are considering working in Japan under the “Specified Skilled Worker (SSW)” visa, it is important to understand the basic requirements before applying for a job.


1. Passing the Required Examinations

For the SSW Type 1 visa, applicants generally need to pass:

  • A skills test for the relevant industry

  • A Japanese language test

(Please note: Some applicants, such as those who have successfully completed Technical Intern Training Type 2 in the same field, may be exempt from these exams.)

You can find the latest official exam information here:


▶ Official SSW Exam Information
https://www.ssw.go.jp/en/about/sswv/exam/

Exam schedules are updated regularly. Some tests are held only a few times a year, and seats may fill quickly. Careful planning is very important.


2. Opportunities in the Accommodation and Hotel Industry

The accommodation industry is one of the fields eligible under the SSW system.

If you are interested in working in hotels or ryokan (traditional Japanese inns), the following websites provide helpful information:

These organizations provide industry information and recruitment-related guidance for foreign workers interested in the hospitality sector.


3. Before Signing an Employment Contract

Before signing an employment contract, you should confirm:

  • Whether you meet the examination requirements

  • Whether the employer is properly prepared to accept SSW workers

  • Whether a support plan is in place (required for SSW Type 1)

The SSW system includes not only visa procedures but also post-arrival support requirements. It is important that both the employer and the applicant understand these obligations clearly.


Legal Support for SSW Applications

Our office provides legal support for:

  • Eligibility confirmation

  • Preparation of application documents

  • Submission of visa applications

  • Ongoing compliance procedures

If you are planning to work in Japan under the Specified Skilled Worker visa, please feel free to contact us for professional guidance.


For employers in Japan, please see our Japanese article on SSW procedures.

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