Japan has a shrinking workforce and many industries struggle to find staff. To fill the gap, it created the Specified Skilled Worker visa, often shortened to SSW. It lets foreign workers take jobs in sectors with labour shortages, and it is one of the few Japanese routes that does not require a university degree. Nigerians and other Africans can apply, but they must pass skills and language tests and find an employer. This guide explains how the system works and what to check before spending money.
What Is the SSW Visa?
The SSW visa was introduced in 2019 for workers who already have practical skills. Unlike the technical intern programme, it is a proper work status with the same pay rules as for Japanese staff. The government states that foreign workers must receive pay equal to or higher than that of Japanese workers doing the same job. It has two categories.
| Feature | Specified Skilled Worker (i) | Specified Skilled Worker (ii) |
|---|---|---|
| Skill level | Practical skills for immediate work | Advanced skills, often with supervisory experience |
| Maximum stay | Up to five years in total, renewed in short periods | No fixed limit, with renewals |
| Family | Generally not allowed to bring family | Spouse and children may be allowed |
| Japanese language | Basic level required | Usually no separate language test, but skills are tested at a higher level |
| Open sectors | All designated sectors | A smaller number of sectors |
Eligible Sectors
The list of sectors is set by the government and has grown since 2019. Fields include nursing care, building cleaning, manufacturing of machinery, electrical and electronic goods, construction, shipbuilding, car maintenance, aviation, accommodation, agriculture, fishery, food and drink production and the restaurant industry. Newer additions have been reported in areas such as road transport, railways, forestry and wood products. The list can change, so check the Immigration Services Agency of Japan before you apply.
Basic Requirements
- Be at least 18 years old and in good health.
- Pass the skills test for your sector, or hold a recognised qualification that exempts you.
- Pass a Japanese language test at a basic level. This is usually the Japan Foundation Test for Basic Japanese or the Japanese Language Proficiency Test at N4.
- Have an employment contract with a Japanese employer that meets the legal requirements.
- Have no criminal record or immigration violations.
- Complete a medical examination if the employer or authority requests it.
Former technical interns who completed the full programme can sometimes switch to SSW (i) without the tests. Check the rule for your case with the immigration agency.
Where Are the Tests Held?
Skills and language tests are held in Japan and in a list of countries chosen by the government. The list is not complete for Africa, and the number of test centres in Nigeria may be limited. Before you invest in training, check the official test provider pages to see where and when your sector’s test is held. Some applicants travel to another country for the test. Do not trust anyone who promises a test pass or a pre-written answer sheet.
How the Process Works
- Choose a sector and read the official skill test guidelines.
- Study for the skills test and for basic Japanese.
- Register for the tests with the official provider.
- After you pass, look for an employer that is allowed to hire SSW workers. Public job boards, registered agencies and Japanese embassy resources can help.
- Sign an employment contract and a support plan with the employer.
- The employer applies for a Certificate of Eligibility at an immigration office in Japan.
- After approval, you apply for a visa at the Japanese embassy or consulate, with the certificate and your documents.
- You travel to Japan and register your address. The employer or a registered support organisation provides orientation and help.
The Role of the Employer and Support Organisations
An employer that hires an SSW (i) worker must provide support, such as pre-departure information, airport pick-up, housing help, orientation, Japanese lessons and help with procedures. Many companies work with a registered support organisation. The employer must also report to the immigration authorities. This is one reason the visa is safer than informal routes: the employer carries legal duties.
Costs to Expect
| Item | Note |
|---|---|
| Skills test and language test fees | Set by the test provider, so check current fees |
| Preparation courses and books | Optional but useful |
| Medical examination and documents | Usually paid by the worker |
| Visa fee | Published by the embassy |
| Flights and first-month costs | Plan for housing deposits and living costs |
The Japanese government states that workers should not pay excessive fees to brokers. Be suspicious of any agent who asks for a large payment before you have a contract.
Life and Work in Japan
Salaries differ by sector and region. Living costs in big cities are higher than in rural areas. Many workers share housing at first. Basic Japanese helps a great deal at work, in shops and in medical visits, so keep studying after you arrive. Workers can change employers within the same sector, but they must follow the notification rules.
Common Mistakes
- Paying an agent for a “guaranteed job” before passing the tests.
- Choosing a sector without checking where its test is held.
- Ignoring Japanese. Even at a basic level, it affects daily life and safety.
- Signing a contract that you cannot read or that changes the pay promised.
- Confusing SSW with the technical intern programme, which is a different system.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a degree?
No. The SSW visa focuses on skills and language rather than degrees.
Can Nigerians apply?
Yes, if they pass the required tests and find a qualifying employer. Availability of test centres is the main practical difficulty.
Can I bring my family?
Not under category (i) in general. Category (ii) may allow family, subject to the rules.
Can I become a permanent resident?
Time on SSW (i) does not count toward permanent residence in the same way as some other statuses, while category (ii) can lead to longer-term options. Check the current rules with the immigration agency.
Final Thoughts
The SSW visa is a real, regulated route for skilled workers who can pass the tests and secure a Japanese employer. Start with the official sector guidelines, find where the tests are held, learn basic Japanese and avoid brokers who charge before you have a contract. Check the Immigration Services Agency of Japan for the latest sector list and rules.