New Policies on Specified Skilled Worker Visa in Japan

Updates on Specified Skilled Worker Visa Policies in Japan

The Japanese government has just announced important changes in the Specified Skilled Worker visa policy, aiming to attract more foreign workers and address labor shortages in many industries.

Expanding Applicable Industries

From June 2025, the list of industries eligible for Specified Skilled Worker visas will be expanded to include 5 new sectors:

• Information Technology and Communications
• Processed Food Production
• Luxury Hotel Services
• Animal Care
• Semiconductor Industry

Skill Assessment Conditions

Japanese language skill assessment conditions also have notable changes:

• N4 level is accepted for specific industries
• Workers can take skill assessment tests in Vietnam more frequently throughout the year
• Waiting time between tests reduced from 6 months to 3 months

Duration of Stay and Visa Conversion

Improvements in duration of stay and visa conversion include:

• Specified Skilled Worker No.1 (SSW1) visa extended to a maximum of 5 years (increased from the current 5 years)
• Specified Skilled Worker No.2 (SSW2) visa allows bringing family members and can be extended indefinitely
• The process of converting from SSW1 to SSW2 has been simplified

Benefits for Workers

Workers holding Specified Skilled Worker visas will enjoy additional benefits:

• Minimum wage equivalent to Japanese workers
• Comprehensive health and social insurance
• Free skill enhancement training opportunities
• Japanese language learning support at the workplace

IPM will organize detailed consultation sessions about these new policies on weekends during May 2025. Register now to get complete information and best prepare for job opportunities in Japan.