What is Specified Skilled Worker? SSW (i) and (ii)
Specified Skilled Worker is a residence status for foreign nationals with skills needed in designated labor-shortage fields in Japan.
Key points
Unlike Technical Intern Training, SSW is a status for working in an eligible field, not primarily for acquiring skills.
SSW (i) is generally limited to five years in total. Workers receive employment and daily-life support, and family accompaniment is generally not permitted.
SSW (ii) is for proficient skills, has no overall stay limit, and may allow a spouse and children to accompany the worker when requirements are met.
Pay must be equal to or higher than that of Japanese workers doing comparable work.
Rules and eligible tasks change, so check the current field-specific guidance before signing a contract.
SSW ALL-IN is an independent, unofficial learning service. Final decisions and current requirements are governed by the Immigration Services Agency, responsible ministries, and official test providers.
