.png)
Japan Skilled Worker Visa 2025: Eligibility, Requirements & Application Guide
Japan is facing a shortage of workers in several industries, and to fill this gap, the government introduced the Specified Skilled Worker Visa (特定技能 / Tokutei Ginou). This visa allows foreign nationals to live and work in Japan under legal and fair conditions.
This article explains everything you need to know about the Japan Skilled Worker Visa — including eligibility, industries, salary, and the step-by-step application process.
🔹 What Is the Japan Skilled Worker Visa?
The Japan Skilled Worker Visa is designed for people with technical skills who want to work in Japan. There are two main categories:
1️⃣ Specified Skilled Worker Type 1 (SSW1)
- For workers with basic skills and experience.
- Validity: Up to 5 years (renewable every 6–12 months).
- Family: Cannot bring family members.
- Industries: Construction, Nursing Care, Food Service, Agriculture, Industrial Machinery, Electronics, Aviation, Automobile Maintenance, Hotel Management, Fishery, Building Cleaning, etc.
2️⃣ Specified Skilled Worker Type 2 (SSW2)
- For highly skilled and experienced workers.
- Validity: Unlimited (renewable indefinitely).
- Family: Can bring spouse and children.
- Industries: Currently available in Construction and Shipbuilding sectors.
🧾 Eligibility Criteria for Japan Skilled Worker Visa
To apply for the Japan Skilled Worker Visa, applicants must meet the following conditions:
1️⃣ Age Requirement
- Must be at least 18 years old at the time of application.
2️⃣ Japanese Language Skill
- Must pass Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT N4) or higher,
OR - Pass the Japan Foundation Test for Basic Japanese (JFT-Basic).
- JLPT N4 means you can understand basic Japanese used in daily life and work settings.
3️⃣ Skills Test
- Must pass the Skills Evaluation Test for your specific field (e.g., food service, construction, nursing care).
- The test checks your technical ability, safety awareness, and practical experience.
4️⃣ Valid Job Offer
- You must have a job offer from a registered Japanese employer before applying.
- The company must ensure proper salary and working conditions equivalent to Japanese workers.
5️⃣ Certificate of Eligibility (CoE)
- Your employer in Japan will apply for a Certificate of Eligibility (CoE) on your behalf.
- Once approved, you can apply for the visa at the Japanese Embassy in your home country.
6️⃣ Health & Conduct
- Applicants must be physically fit and have no criminal record.
- Medical check-ups may be required before departure.
7️⃣ Country Eligibility
Applicants must be from countries that have a bilateral agreement with Japan for the SSW program. These include:
- Bangladesh
- Philippines
- Vietnam
- Indonesia
- Thailand
- Nepal
- Myanmar
- Mongolia
- Sri Lanka
- Cambodia, and others
8️⃣ For Type 2 Visa (Advanced Level)
- Must already hold a Type 1 visa.
- Have proven advanced skills and work experience.
- Type 2 allows family members and unlimited renewal.
📋 Summary of Eligibility
| Criteria | Type 1 Visa | Type 2 Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Age | 18+ | 18+ |
| Language | JLPT N4 / JFT-Basic | JLPT N4 or higher |
| Skills Test | Required | Advanced level |
| Job Offer | Required | Required |
| Family | Not allowed | Allowed |
| Duration | Up to 5 years | Unlimited |
| Industries | 12–14 fields | Construction, Shipbuilding |
💼 Salary and Benefits
- Foreign workers receive equal pay to Japanese employees in the same role.
- Eligible for health insurance, pension, and paid leave.
- Employers must follow Japan’s labor law for safety and welfare.
🪜 How to Apply for Japan Skilled Worker Visa
- Select your preferred industry and job category.
- Pass the Japanese language test (JLPT N4 or JFT-Basic).
- Pass the Skills Evaluation Test for your chosen sector.
- Find a job offer through authorized recruitment channels.
- Your employer applies for the Certificate of Eligibility (CoE).
- Apply for the visa at the Japanese Embassy in your country.
- Travel to Japan and start working!
🌍 Information for Bangladeshi Applicants
Bangladesh has an official agreement with Japan under the SSW program. The Bureau of Manpower, Employment and Training (BMET) and JITCO Japan coordinate training and skill tests.
To stay updated about upcoming skill tests and registration announcements, visit:
📞 Official Sources
- Japan Immigration Services Agency (ISA): https://www.moj.go.jp/isa/
- Embassy of Japan in Bangladesh: https://www.bd.emb-japan.go.jp/
- BMET Bangladesh: https://www.bmet.gov.bd/
👉 For the latest job circulars, visa updates, and overseas employment news, visit CurrentCircular.com
.png)
