Your Guide to Working in Japan on a Tokutei Ginou Visa
The Specified Skilled Worker (特定技能 / Tokutei Ginou) visa process can feel confusing — too many intermediaries, unclear timelines, and important information lost in translation. You deserve clear answers. This guide is here to help.
What is Tokutei Ginou (SSW)?
Tokutei Ginou (特定技能), or Specified Skilled Worker (SSW), is a Japanese work visa created in 2019. It allows foreign workers with specific skills to work in Japan in industries facing labor shortages.
Two Categories
- SSW 1 (特定技能1号) — Up to 5 years. Requires passing a Japanese language test (JFT-Basic or JLPT N4+) and a skills test for your industry.
- SSW 2 (特定技能2号) — No time limit. Allows family to join you. Requires higher-level skills and experience. Currently available in most sectors.
Eligible Industries
How the Process Works
The typical timeline from starting your studies to arriving in Japan is 6 to 12 months. Here's what to expect:
1. Study & Prepare
Study Japanese (aim for JLPT N4 or pass JFT-Basic) and prepare for the skills test in your industry.
2. Pass the Tests
Take and pass both the Japanese language test and the industry-specific skills test. Tests are held in various countries.
3. Find an Employer
Connect with a Japanese company (受入企業) through a registered intermediary or recruitment agency. Review your employment contract carefully.
4. Document Preparation
Your employer and support organization handle visa application documents (在留資格認定証明書). You'll need to provide personal documents, test certificates, and more.
5. Visa Issuance
Once approved by Immigration, you'll receive your Certificate of Eligibility (COE). Take it to the Japanese embassy in your country to get your visa stamped.
6. Arrive in Japan
Your support organization should help arrange airport pickup, initial housing, and orientation in your language.
7. Register & Settle In
Register at your local city hall (市区町村役場), set up a bank account, get health insurance, and learn your neighborhood.
8. Start Work
Begin working. Your support organization is required to provide ongoing support — including regular check-ins and help with daily life.
Understanding the Key Players
Several organizations are involved in your employment in Japan. Understanding who does what helps you know who to turn to.
Your Employer (受入企業)
The Japanese company you work for. They are responsible for your salary, working conditions, and must follow Japanese labor laws.
Registered Support Organization (登録支援機関)
Provides the 10 mandatory support items — from airport pickup to regular counseling. Your employer may handle support themselves or delegate to this organization.
Recruitment Agency / Intermediary
The agency (sometimes in your home country) that connects you with the employer. They help with paperwork and communication, but should not be the only way you can talk to your employer.
Immigration Services Agency (出入国在留管理庁)
The government body that processes visa applications and oversees the SSW program. They set the rules everyone must follow.
Know Your Rights
As an SSW worker, you are protected by the same labor laws as Japanese workers. Here are key things you should know:
10 Mandatory Support Items Your Organization Must Provide
Unlike the old Technical Intern Training Program, SSW workers can change jobs within the same industry. No one can force you to stay with an employer.
Important documents and orientation must be provided in a language you understand. You should not have to guess what you're agreeing to.
Minimum wage, overtime pay, paid leave, health insurance, and pension all apply to you. Your employer cannot treat you differently because of your nationality.
Where to Get Help
- Immigration Information Center — Tel: 0570-013904 (multilingual support)
- Labor Standards Inspection Office (労働基準監督署) — For workplace violations and unpaid wages
- OTIT (Organization for Technical Intern Training) — Also handles SSW complaints: 0120-250-168
- Foreign Workers Consultation Corner — Free consultation in multiple languages at local labor bureaus
Red Flags to Watch For
Most employers and support organizations follow the rules. But problems do happen. Watch out for these warning signs:
Intermediary won't let you communicate directly with your employer
You have the right to know who you're working for and to talk to them. If someone blocks this, ask why.
Verbal promises that aren't documented in writing
Salary, working hours, housing arrangements — if it's not in your contract, it may not happen. Always get it in writing.
Being rushed or pressured to sign documents
Take your time. Ask for translations. A legitimate organization will give you time to understand what you're signing.
No clear explanation of your living situation
You should know where you'll live, how much rent costs, and what's included before you arrive in Japan.
Passport or personal documents being held by someone else
This is illegal. Your passport belongs to you. No one — not your employer, not your agency — can take it from you.
No explanation of your rights or complaint channels
A good support organization will proactively tell you your rights and how to report problems. Silence is a red flag.
Tips for a Smooth Transition
Get everything in writing
Salary, working hours, overtime, housing costs, deductions — make sure it's all in your employment contract.
Learn basic Japanese beyond the test
Daily conversation, reading signs, and understanding workplace instructions will make your life much easier.
Understand your contract before signing
Ask for a version in your language. If anything is unclear, ask questions. Don't sign what you don't understand.
Know the complaint and reporting channels
Save the helpline numbers listed above. Knowing where to go before problems happen gives you peace of mind.
Connect with worker communities
Many cities have international associations and communities for foreign workers. They can be a great source of support and friendship.
Finding Work in Japan
Finding a good employer in Japan takes effort, but there are reliable resources to help you connect with legitimate companies.
Where to Look for SSW Employers
Japan's public employment service. Free to use, with offices across the country. Many have foreign language support. You can search jobs online at the HelloWork website.
Agencies licensed by your country's government and Japan's immigration authorities. Check that they are properly registered before working with them.
Some industries (nursing care, food service, construction) have dedicated job boards for SSW positions. Your country's embassy in Japan may also list opportunities.
RSOs sometimes help connect workers with employers. A good RSO will be transparent about the employer and working conditions.
What to Look for in a Good Employer & RSO
Questions to Ask Before Accepting an Offer
A note about Kakehashi: Organizations that use Kakehashi give their workers direct access to a worker portal where you can check your visa status, see upcoming deadlines, and submit documents from your phone. If your employer or RSO uses Kakehashi, ask them about your portal access.