What is SSW Japan Visa? Requirements, Salary, and Application Process

Japan is one of the most technologically advanced countries in the world, yet it faces a significant labor shortage in several industries due to its aging population and declining workforce. To address this issue, the Japanese government introduced the SSW Japan Visa (Specified Skilled Worker Visa) in 2019. This new system creates pathways for foreign nationals to work in Japan in industries that are experiencing labor gaps.

If you are looking to work in Japan, understanding the SSW Japan Visa program is essential. This guide will explain what the SSW visa is, the difference between “Visa” and “Status of Residence,” its requirements, benefits, application process, and opportunities for foreign workers.

For official details, you can also refer to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan (MOFA): https://www.mofa.go.jp/index.html.

Visa and Status of Residence in Japan

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan, foreign nationals intending to enter Japan must acquire a “visa” from a Japanese embassy or consulate abroad. However, obtaining a visa does not guarantee entry into Japan. When arriving at the airport, all foreign nationals must undergo examination by the Immigration Services Agency of Japan and are granted a “Status of Residence” depending on the activity they intend to engage in.

In short:

• Visa = Permission to enter Japan, issued by Japanese embassies (MOFA).
• Status of Residence = Permission to stay and engage in specific activities inside Japan, issued by Immigration Services Agency.

The Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) program introduced in 2019 is a newly established Status of Residence, designed specifically to allow foreign nationals to work in designated labor shortage industries.

Strengthen your language skills before applying for the SSW visa with our guide on Japanese Language Certificate to boost workplace communication.

What is the SSW Japan Visa?

The SSW Japan Visa is a special work visa program that allows foreign workers with specific skills to live and work in Japan. It is divided into two categories:

• SSW (i) – Designed for workers with skills that allow them to start working immediately without receiving significant training. This category applies to 16 specific industries, such as nursing care, construction, agriculture, and food service. Workers under SSW (i) can stay for up to 5 years but cannot bring family members.
• SSW (ii) – Intended for workers with proficient or advanced skills in specialized industries like construction and shipbuilding. This status allows renewable long-term stay and permits family members (spouse and children) to live in Japan.

Features of SSW Japan Visa

The key features of the SSW Japan Visa are:

• Applicants must be at least 18 years old, in good health, and capable of working without extensive training.
• Workers must pass skills and Japanese language proficiency exams, except those who have already completed Japan’s Technical Intern Training Program.
• The SSW is divided into two categories—SSW (i) and SSW (ii)—with different rights and benefits.

There is also a clear difference between the Technical Intern Training Program and the SSW program: the former focuses on skill transfer to developing countries, while the latter is designed to fill Japan’s immediate labor shortages.

Beginners planning to move to Japan can check How to Apply for Japan Student Visa Online to understand initial visa procedures before transitioning to SSW work status.

Main Differences Between SSW (i) and SSW (ii)

Work Opportunities for SSW Japan Visa Holders

The SSW visa jobs in Japan cover 16 industrial fields:

1. Nursing Care
2. Building Cleaning Management
3. Material Processing (casting, metal pressing)
4. Industrial Machinery Manufacturing
5. Electric and Electronics Industry
6. Construction Industry
7. Shipbuilding/Marine Industry
8. Automotive Maintenance
9. Aviation Industry
10. Accommodation (Hotels & Hospitality)
11. Agriculture
12. Food & Beverage Manufacturing
13. Automobile Transportation Business
14. Railway Industry
15. Forestry
16. Wood Industry

Note: Some sectors, such as Nursing Care, Automobile Transportation, Railway, Forestry, and Wood Industry, are limited only to SSW (i) visa holders.

Students seeking financial assistance for studies and future SSW career should refer to How to Apply for a MEXT Scholarship in 2026 for step-by-step guidance.

SSW Japan Visa Requirements

To apply for the SSW visa in Japan, applicants must meet the following conditions:

• Be 18 years or older.
• Pass occupational skill tests relevant to their chosen industry.
• Demonstrate Japanese language proficiency (at least JLPT N4 or equivalent for SSW (i)).
• Be in good health.
• Have no serious criminal record or immigration violations.

For SSW (ii), applicants must demonstrate a higher level of technical expertise and experience in their industry.

How to Apply SSW Visa in Japan

The SSW visa application process involves several steps:

1. Confirm Eligibility – Check if your skills match one of the designated sectors.
2. Take Exams – Pass skill and Japanese language proficiency tests.
3. Get a Job Offer – Secure employment with an approved Japanese company.
4. Employer Applies for CoE – The company in Japan applies for a Certificate of Eligibility (CoE).
5. Submit Visa Application – With the CoE, apply for the visa at your nearest Japanese embassy or consulate.
6. Receive Approval – After immigration checks, your visa will be issued.
7. Travel to Japan – Upon arrival, you must undergo an immigration examination to obtain your Status of Residence.

Learn practical strategies with How to Learn Japanese Language in India 2025 to prepare for language tests required for the SSW visa.

SSW Visa Japan Salary

The salary for SSW visa workers is equal to that of Japanese nationals in similar positions. On average:

• Nursing care: ¥180,000 – ¥220,000/month
• Food service: ¥170,000 – ¥200,000/month
• Construction: ¥200,000 – ¥250,000/month
• Manufacturing: ¥180,000 – ¥220,000/month

SSW Visa Japan Age Limit

While there is no official SSW visa Japan age limit, most applicants are between 18–35 years old. Older applicants may still apply if they meet skill and health requirements.

SSW Visa Processing Time

The typical timeline for an SSW visa application is:

• Certificate of Eligibility (CoE): 1–3 months
• Embassy Visa Processing: 2–4 weeks

Overall, the process usually takes 3–6 months from job offer to visa approval.

To meet language proficiency standards for SSW applications, refer to the NAT Japanese Test in October 2025 for exam schedules and preparation tips.

Eligibility Requirements for SSW Japan Visa

To qualify for the SSW Japan Visa, applicants must typically meet the following conditions:

1. Age Requirement: Must be 18 years or older.
2. Skills Requirement: Pass an industry-specific skills test to prove knowledge and ability to perform the job.
3. Language Requirement: Pass a Japanese language test, such as:
   
   
   • Japan Foundation Test for Basic Japanese (JFT-Basic), or
   • Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) at N4 level or higher.
4. Employment: Secure a job offer from a Japanese employer who will act as your sponsor.
5. Other Conditions: Be in good health, and have no criminal record or immigration violations.

Note: Candidates who have successfully completed the Technical Intern Training Program in Japan can apply for SSW (i) without retaking the skills and language tests.

Application Process for SSW Japan Visa

The general SSW visa application process involves several key steps:

1. Find a Sponsoring Employer – Secure a job offer in one of the eligible industries. Your employer must be authorized to hire foreign workers under the SSW program.
2. Pass Skills and Language Tests – Take and pass the required exams to prove your competence.
3. Obtain a Certificate of Eligibility (CoE) – Your employer will apply for the CoE at the Immigration Services Agency in Japan. This document is essential for your visa application.
4. Apply for the Visa – Once the CoE is issued, apply for the SSW visa at the Japanese embassy or consulate in your home country. Submit the required documents including passport, visa form, photos, and the CoE.
5. Enter Japan – After visa approval, travel to Japan. At the airport, you will undergo immigration inspection, receive your residence card, and officially gain the Status of Residence as a Specified Skilled Worker.

Those already studying in Japan can manage legal formalities by checking Japan Student Visa Extension Guide before switching to SSW status.

Benefits of SSW Japan Visa

The SSW Japan Visa offers many advantages for foreign workers who wish to build their careers in Japan. Unlike temporary work visas, the SSW program provides structured opportunities, fair salaries, and a clear pathway for professional growth. Below are some of the key benefits:

1. Opportunity to Work in Japan’s Growing Industries

The SSW visa is available across 14 specific industries, including nursing care, food service, construction, manufacturing, agriculture, and hospitality. These industries face a shortage of workers in Japan, creating stable and long-term opportunities for foreign employees.

2. Competitive Salaries and Benefits

Workers under the SSW program receive salaries equal to or higher than Japanese employees in the same industry. This ensures fairness and financial security. Many employers also provide additional benefits such as housing support, transportation allowance, and health insurance.

3. Pathway to Long-Term Stay (SSW Type 2)

While the SSW Type 1 visa allows workers to stay for up to 5 years, those who gain advanced skills may transition to SSW Type 2, which provides the possibility of long-term residence and family accompaniment. This creates a pathway to a more permanent life in Japan.

4. No Need for High Academic Qualifications

Unlike other work visas that may require a university degree, the SSW Japan visa focuses on skills and practical abilities. Candidates only need to pass the skills test and language requirement, making it accessible to more applicants.

5. Opportunity to Learn Japanese and Enhance Cultural Understanding

Living and working in Japan under the SSW program gives candidates a chance to improve their Japanese language skills and experience Japanese culture firsthand. This exposure not only strengthens communication abilities but also improves career prospects for the future.

6. Equal Work Rights and Protections

The Japanese government ensures that all SSW workers are protected under labor laws. This includes proper working hours, paid leave, and safe working conditions, making it a secure option for foreign employees.

7. Gateway to International Career Growth

Experience in Japan is highly valued globally. Working in a developed economy with advanced technologies and systems boosts a candidate’s career prospects and opens doors to international opportunities in the future.

For budgeting your studies and stay while preparing for SSW employment, see Cost of Studying in Japan to plan finances effectively.

How TLS – The Japanese Language School Can Help

One of the biggest requirements for the SSW Japan Visa is Japanese language ability. TLS – The Japanese Language School offers specialized training for JLPT preparation, workplace communication, and cultural adaptation. Their structured programs help applicants achieve the necessary Japanese level, making them job-ready for industries in Japan.

For more details, visit TLS – The Japanese Language School.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about SSW Japan Visa

1. What is the SSW visa in Japan?
The SSW Japan Visa, or Specified Skilled Worker Visa, is a residence status that allows foreign workers with specialized skills to work in 16 designated industries such as nursing care, construction, agriculture, and hospitality. It was introduced to address Japan’s labor shortage.

2. What is the meaning of SSW?
SSW stands for “Specified Skilled Worker.” It refers to foreign nationals who meet Japan’s requirements for industry-specific skills and Japanese language ability, enabling them to work legally in Japan.

3. How long is the Japanese SSW visa valid for?
The validity depends on the type: SSW (i) is valid for up to 5 years with no family accompaniment, while SSW (ii) has no time limit and allows family members to stay in Japan.

4. What is the salary of SSW in Japan?
The average salary under an SSW Japan Visa ranges from ¥180,000 to ¥250,000 per month, depending on the industry and skill level. This is similar to what Japanese nationals earn in the same roles.

5. Which job is best in Japan for Indians?
For Indians, jobs in nursing care, food service, agriculture, construction, and IT are most accessible under the SSW visa. Nursing and hospitality have particularly high demand.

6. How much is a 1 hour salary in Japan?
The minimum hourly wage in Japan varies by prefecture, typically ranging from ¥900 to ¥1,200 per hour, with higher rates in cities like Tokyo and Osaka.

7. What is the lowest paid job in Japan?
The lowest paid jobs are usually in the hospitality, retail, and food service sectors, where wages are closer to the minimum hourly rate. However, workers still receive regulated benefits and rights.

8. Is Japan costly than India?
Yes, Japan is more expensive than India in terms of housing, transportation, and daily living costs. However, higher wages often balance out these expenses, especially in urban areas.

9. Is 2 lakh yen a good salary in Japan?
A monthly salary of ¥200,000 (approx. ₹1.1 lakh INR) is considered modest but livable for a single person in smaller cities. In Tokyo, it can be challenging due to higher rent and living costs.

10. How much is rent in Japan?
Rent varies by city and size. In Tokyo, a small apartment may cost ¥60,000–¥100,000 per month, while in smaller cities, rents are more affordable, around ¥30,000–¥50,000.

Conclusion

The SSW Japan Visa is a gateway for skilled foreign workers to build careers in Japan’s industries facing labor shortages. By understanding the difference between visa and status of residence, preparing for skill and language exams, and securing a valid job offer, applicants can successfully begin their journey to Japan.

With two categories—SSW (i) for entry-level skilled workers and SSW (ii) for advanced professionals—the program provides opportunities for both short-term and long-term career growth.

If you are planning to apply, start preparing today. With the right guidance from TLS – The Japanese Language School, achieving success in the SSW program is within your reach.

For official government updates, refer to: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan (MOFA).