Tokyo, Japan – Facing an unprecedented labor shortage fueled by an aging population, the Japanese government has significantly expanded its recruitment targets for foreign nationals. For 2026 and beyond, the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) program—known in Japan as Tokutei Ginou—is the primary vehicle for this recruitment drive.
The Path to Permanent Residency (SSW Type 2)
The Japanese Cabinet has approved a plan to welcome up to 820,000 foreign workers over the five-year period from 2024 to 2029. This is more than double the previous target, signaling that the door to Japan is wider open than ever before for skilled laborers in sectors ranging from construction to aviation.
This is the biggest game-changer. Previously, agriculture workers had to return home after 5 years. Now, the Japanese government has expanded the SSW Type 2 category to include agriculture.
- Benefits: There is no limit on renewals, allowing you to live in Japan indefinitely. Crucially, you can bring your spouse and children.
- More Info: Read about the upgrade process on the Immigration Services Agency Support Website.
This detailed guide breaks down the targets, qualifications, salary expectations, and application procedures for 2026 based on official government sources.
1. The Recruitment Target: 820,000 Workers
The Japanese government has officially raised the cap on SSW visas. While the program started with a modest target, the acute labor shortage has forced a revision. The current policy aims to admit 820,000 workers across various industries by the end of the fiscal year 2028/2029.
- Key Sectors Recruiting:
- Manufacturing: Target of ~173,000 workers.
- Construction: Target of ~80,000 workers.
- Agriculture: Target of ~78,000 workers.
- Nursing Care: Target of ~135,000 workers (Highest demand).
- Food Service: Target of ~53,000 workers.
For official statistics and sector breakdowns, refer to the Immigration Services Agency of Japan (ISA) portal: Overview of the Specified Skilled Worker System.
2. Visa Categories: SSW (i) vs. SSW (ii)
Understanding the difference between the two visa types is critical for long-term planning.
Specified Skilled Worker (i)
- Target: Workers with considerable knowledge or experience.
- Stay Duration: Maximum of 5 years total.
- Family: Generally cannot bring family members (spouses/children).
- Renewal: Renewed every 1 year, 6 months, or 4 months.
Specified Skilled Worker (ii)
- Target: Workers with proficient skills (expert level).
- Stay Duration: Indefinite (No limit on renewals).
- Family: Allowed to bring spouses and children.
- Path to PR: This visa opens a direct path to Permanent Residency in Japan.
- Expansion: As of late 2024/2025, the government expanded SSW (ii) eligibility to almost all 12 industrial fields, allowing workers to upgrade from (i) to (ii) after gaining experience and passing higher-level exams.
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3. Eligibility & Qualifications
One of the most attractive features of the SSW visa is that it does not require a university degree.
- Age: You must be 18 years or older.
- Education: No minimum educational degree (Bachelor’s/Master’s) is required.
- Health: You must be in good health.
- Tests: You must pass two mandatory exams (Language + Skill).
A. The Language Test
You must prove you can communicate in basic Japanese. You can do this by passing ONE of the following:
- JLPT (Japanese Language Proficiency Test): Level N4 or higher.
- Official Site: JLPT Official Website
- JFT-Basic (Japan Foundation Test for Basic Japanese): Level A2. This is a computer-based test specifically designed for the SSW visa.
- Official Site: JFT-Basic Official Website
B. The Skills Test
You must pass a trade-specific exam for the industry you want to enter (e.g., a nursing test, a construction test, or a food service test). These are often conducted by Prometric.
- Official Test Booking: Prometric Japan SSW Exams
4. Salary Expectations in 2026
Japanese law mandates that SSW workers must be paid equal to or more than a Japanese national doing the same job.
- Average Monthly Salary: Typically ranges from ¥180,000 to ¥250,000 JPY (approx. $1,200 – $1,650 USD), depending on the region and industry.
- Overtime: Overtime is paid at a higher rate (usually 1.25x). Many workers in manufacturing and construction significantly boost their earnings through overtime.
- Bonuses: Some companies offer bonuses, but this depends on the specific contract.
- Deductions: Expect deductions for taxes, social insurance, and pension (usually 15-20% of gross pay).
5. How to Apply: The Step-by-Step Process
- Preparation: Study Japanese and your specific trade skill.
- Pass Exams: Register for and pass the JLPT/JFT and the Skills Test in your home country (or in Japan if you are a student).
- Find an Employer: You must have a job offer to apply for the visa. You can find jobs through recruitment agencies or the official matching events.
- Sign Contract: Sign an employment contract that meets SSW standards.
- Certificate of Eligibility (CoE): Your employer applies for your CoE at the immigration office in Japan.
- Visa Application: Once you receive the CoE, apply for the visa at the Japanese Embassy in your country.
- Official Application Guide: For detailed procedures, consult the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) guide:MOFA SSW Application Guide.
Japan’s 2026 recruitment drive is a rare opportunity for skilled workers without university degrees to gain access to a high-income economy. With the target set at 820,000 workers and the pathway to permanent residency (via SSW ii) now open for most sectors, Japan is positioning itself as a top destination for long-term career growth.
