How to Obtain the Specified Skilled Worker Status of Residence

Proficiency Tests

In order to work under a Specified Skilled Worker (i) status of residence, you need to pass a Japanese language test and a skills proficiency test. (You do not need to pass these tests if you have satisfactorily completed Technical Intern Training (ii). However, to work in a different field, you need to pass a skills proficiency test in the field in which you wish to work.) Taking these tests costs money. You can check the test’s website to find out what kinds of questions are on it. For information on textbooks and sample questions, see the website. Test questions related to several fields are provided here for reference.

Detailed Test Information

Switching from Another Status of Residence

You do not need to pass a test if you have satisfactorily completed Technical Intern Training (ii). However, to work in a different field, you need to pass a skills proficiency test in the field in which you want to work. You can sign a contract with a company and submit a status of residence application to Immigration. If you have a different status of residence (e.g., a student visa), you need to take and pass a test.

Signing a Contract with a Company

In order to sign a contract with a company, you need to take and pass an employment interview. If you are not in Japan, the employment interview can be conducted directly with the company or through an employment placement company. If you are in Japan, there is a government agency called Hello Work that provides employment placement services in Japan. Please contact Hello Work if you want to find a new job. You can contact any Hello Work location.

If you have job-related problems or there is something you don’t understand, you can also contact the Foreign Workers Consultation Service (Advisor for Foreign Workers).

Topic

Immigration has produced a Guidebook on Living and Working and offers valuable information for foreign nationals who live and work in Japan on its website.