Specified Skilled Worker (Tokutei Ginou)
SSW (Tokutei Ginou) is Japan's work visa programme for skilled workers in 16 sectors including caregiving, food service, construction, agriculture, and hospitality. To qualify you need to pass two exams: a Japanese language test (JFT-Basic or JLPT N4+) and a skills proficiency test for your chosen sector.
The Specified Skilled Worker programme lets foreign workers take up jobs in Japanese industries facing labour shortages. SSW Type 1 allows up to 5 years of work; SSW Type 2 (available in select sectors) allows long-term renewal and family sponsorship.
Popular sectors for Nepali applicants include caregiving (kaigo), food service, food & beverage manufacturing, agriculture, construction, and accommodation/hospitality.
Japanese language: pass JFT-Basic (200+/250) or JLPT N4 or higher. Caregiving additionally requires the Nursing Care Japanese Language Evaluation Test.
Skills test: pass the proficiency exam for your chosen sector, such as the caregiving skills test or the food service industry skills test. These are held in Nepal and other countries throughout the year.
Once both exams are passed, you can be matched with a Japanese employer and apply for the SSW visa.
We help you pick the right sector based on your background, then map out both exams with a realistic timeline.
We prepare you for the language requirement through JFT-Basic or JLPT N4 coaching via our partner classes.
We guide your documentation and visa file preparation once you have passed both exams and received a job offer.
Common questions from students preparing for SSW.
Two exams: a Japanese language test (JFT-Basic with 200+ or JLPT N4 and above) and the skills proficiency test for your chosen sector. Caregiving requires one additional Japanese test for nursing care.
SSW Type 1 does not allow family sponsorship. SSW Type 2, available in select sectors after upgrading, allows you to bring your spouse and children.
Yes, both JFT-Basic and several sector skills tests (such as caregiving and food service) are regularly held in Nepal. We track upcoming test dates for you.
See which test fits your destination.
Book a free counselling session and we will help you plan your score target and study timeline.
