About Specified Skilled Worker Type 2
Last updated: April 2026
What is Specified Skilled Worker Type 2?
Specified Skilled Worker Type 2 (SSW-ii) is a residence status under Japan's immigration law, granted to foreign nationals with advanced skills. It is designed for industries facing severe labor shortages, requiring a higher level of proficiency and work experience than Type 1.
Initially limited to construction and shipbuilding, the system has expanded to cover multiple fields. The nursing care field is excluded from Type 2, as it has a separate visa pathway.
Key Differences Between Type 1 and Type 2
Type 1 and Type 2 differ in residence period, family accompaniment, permanent residency eligibility, and support requirements.
- Residence period: Type 1 has a maximum of 5 years total, renewed every 1 year, 6 months, or 4 months. Type 2 has no upper limit, renewed every 3 years, 2 years, 1 year, or 6 months.
- Permanent residency: Not available under Type 1. Under Type 2, permanent residency applications may be possible if requirements are met.
- Skill level: Type 1 requires "considerable knowledge or experience"; Type 2 requires "proficient skills," verified through skill assessments.
- Support obligations: Type 1 requires a support plan; Type 2 does not.
- Family accompaniment: Generally not allowed under Type 1. Type 2 permits spouses and children under certain conditions.
- Japanese language: Type 1 may include language testing. Type 2 varies by field, but exams are conducted in Japanese, so a certain level of Japanese is necessary.
Benefits of Obtaining Type 2
With no upper limit on residence period renewals, Type 2 makes it easier to work long-term in Japan. Family accompaniment becomes possible, and permanent residency eligibility improves. More workers are now aiming to upgrade from Type 1 to Type 2 for career development.
For companies, Type 2 holders can take on leadership roles, mentor Type 1 workers and technical interns, and serve as bridges with Japanese colleagues — all with the benefit of long-term employment.
Eligible Fields (Overview)
Major fields include building cleaning, industrial products manufacturing, construction, shipbuilding, auto repair, aviation, accommodation, agriculture, fisheries, food & beverage manufacturing, and food service. Each field has specific skill test and experience requirements, often requiring 2+ years of supervisory experience.
Exam schedules and application methods vary by field. Work experience certificates and employer cooperation are typically required. Please check the official websites of each field's implementing organization for the latest information.
Process and Key Considerations
To obtain Type 2 status, you generally need to: (1) pass the Type 2 skill assessment (or equivalent qualification), and (2) meet the required work experience. Experience requirements vary by field.
Since Type 1 has a 5-year maximum, it's important to plan your career early — taking on supervisory roles to accumulate the required experience (often 2+ years). If changing jobs, you may need experience certificates from previous employers.
In many fields, exam applications are submitted by the employer. Exam fees and certificate issuance fees apply. Please refer to each implementing organization's guidelines for details.
Our Exam Preparation Support
We provide a learning support service for the Specified Skilled Worker Type 2 exam. For official exam information and application requirements, please check announcements from the Immigration Services Agency and each field's testing organization.