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The Japan Specified Skilled Worker (SSW, or Tokutei Ginou) programme lets skilled workers from India work in Japan in sectors facing labour shortages, such as nursing care, food service, construction, manufacturing and agriculture. India and Japan signed a Memorandum of Cooperation on SSW, so Indian workers can apply after passing the required skills and Japanese language tests. For Kerala youth, Japan Specified Skilled Worker jobs are a growing overseas option.
This guide explains SSW eligibility, tests, the application process and safety tips.
Japan Specified Skilled Worker – Key Points
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme | Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) – Category (i) and (ii) |
| Sectors | Nursing care, food service, construction, manufacturing, agriculture, accommodation and other notified fields |
| Requirements | Skills test for the sector + Japanese language test |
| Language | JFT-Basic or JLPT N4 (or higher) for most fields |
| Duration | SSW (i) up to five years in total; SSW (ii) renewable for some fields |
| Official info | Immigration Services Agency of Japan |
Eligibility
- Age 18 or above
- Pass the sector-specific skills test
- Pass the Japanese language test (JFT-Basic or JLPT N4, plus additional tests for some sectors such as nursing care)
- Good health and clean record
Workers who completed Technical Intern Training (TITP) in a related field may be exempt from some tests.
Step-by-Step Process
- Learn Japanese to at least N4 level.
- Pass the skills test for your chosen sector (tests are held in India for some fields).
- Find a Japanese employer through approved channels.
- Sign an employment contract with salary equal to Japanese workers in the same job.
- Employer applies for the Certificate of Eligibility (COE) in Japan.
- Apply for the visa at the Japanese embassy or consulate in India.
- Travel and start work, with support from the employer or a registered support organisation.
Salary and Working Conditions
Under SSW rules, foreign workers must receive pay equal to or higher than Japanese workers doing the same job. Employers must provide support for daily life, orientation and Japanese learning.
Where to Learn Japanese in Kerala
- Japanese language institutes in Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram and Kozhikode
- Online JLPT and JFT-Basic courses
- Skill India International and other government-linked initiatives for Japan placements
Scam Warning
- Do not pay large amounts to agents promising “direct Japan jobs”.
- SSW requires passing official tests; avoid offers that skip them.
- Verify the employer and the registered support organisation.
Read our overseas job fraud guide.
Japan Specified Skilled Worker: Quick Safety Checklist
Before you act on any offer related to Japan Specified Skilled Worker, go through this short checklist. It takes only a few minutes and can save you lakhs of rupees.
- Confirm the employer and the job on the official government portal of the destination country.
- Keep copies of the offer letter, contract, visa and every payment receipt.
- Never pay more than the legal service charge to a recruiting agent in India (₹30,000 plus GST for MEA-registered agents).
- Complete emigration clearance on eMigrate if your passport is ECR.
- Save the contact details of the Indian Embassy and the MADAD portal before you travel.
Following these steps makes your Japan Specified Skilled Worker journey safer and smoother.
We review and update this Japan Specified Skilled Worker guide whenever official notices or rules change. Bookmark this page, share it with friends who need it, and always confirm the latest details on the official website before you take any step.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Japan Specified Skilled Worker programme?
A work visa route for skilled foreign workers in labour-shortage sectors in Japan.
What Japanese level is needed?
Usually JFT-Basic or JLPT N4 or higher, plus sector-specific tests in some fields.
Can Indians apply for SSW?
Yes. India and Japan have a Memorandum of Cooperation on SSW.
How long can I work in Japan under SSW (i)?
Up to five years in total.
Related: Japan Jobs | International Jobs
Disclaimer: Kerala Job News is not affiliated with any government department, recruiting body or employer mentioned here. This article is compiled from Immigration Services Agency of Japan information for general information only. Details can change, so always confirm on the official website before you apply or pay any fee. Kerala Job News never charges money for job information.
