Japan Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) visa, step by step

SSW is a work visa, not a training scheme. You are paid the same as a Japanese colleague doing the same job and may change employer within your sector.

Two exams, both taken at home

• Language: JLPT N4 or the JFT-Basic test. JFT-Basic runs more often and is computer based.
• Skills: a sector test set by the relevant Japanese industry body. Care work adds a care-Japanese component.

After you pass

The employer or their registered support organisation files a Certificate of Eligibility with immigration, which takes one to three months. The certificate goes to the embassy with your visa application.

Money

First-year pay commonly lands between ¥180,000 and ¥230,000 before deductions, with dormitory rent far below market rate. Social insurance and tax are deducted at source.

The five-year limit

Category one runs five years with no family accompaniment. Category two has no time limit and allows a spouse and children, but demands more experience and a harder test. Plan for it from year one if you intend to stay.