The Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) program, introduced by the Japanese government in April 2019, aims to address labor shortages in key industries by allowing foreign workers with specific skills and Japanese language proficiency to work in Japan. The SSW test evaluates both technical skills and Japanese language ability, enabling candidates to obtain the SSW (i) or SSW (ii) status of residence.
The SSW test comprises two components: a Japanese language test and a skills proficiency test specific to one of 14 designated industry sectors. It is designed for foreign nationals aged 18 or older with relevant skills and basic Japanese proficiency to work in Japan without requiring extensive training. The program supports industries facing labor shortages due to Japan’s aging population.
The SSW test includes a Japanese language test and a sector-specific skills test. The language test (JLPT N4 or JFT-Basic A2) assesses basic communication skills, while skills tests evaluate technical expertise. Below is an overview of the test structure, focusing on the language component and a sample skills test (e.g., Agriculture). Passing criteria vary by test provider, typically requiring a minimum score of 60–65%.
| Test Component | Duration | Questions | Score | Syllabus |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JLPT N4 (Language Knowledge: Vocabulary) | 25 min | ~30 | 120 | ~1,500 vocabulary, ~300 kanji, hiragana, katakana, word usage. |
| JLPT N4 (Grammar & Reading) | 55 min | ~25 | Grammar (e.g., ている, てもいい), reading short passages. | |
| JLPT N4 (Listening) | 35 min | ~20 | 60 | Short conversations, instructions, announcements. |
| JFT-Basic A2 | 60 min | ~60 | Pass/Fail | Script/vocabulary, conversation/expression, listening, reading. |
| Agriculture Skills Test (Sample) | ~60 min | Varies | Pass/Fail | Crop/livestock farming techniques, safety protocols, equipment use. |
| Total (JLPT N4) | 115 min | ~75 | 180 | - |
JLPT N4 is scheduled for July 6 and December 7, 2025, with registrations typically opening in March and August, respectively. JFT-Basic is offered monthly via Prometric’s CBT system in countries like India, Bangladesh, and Japan. Skills tests vary by sector; for example, Agriculture Skills Tests are scheduled periodically (check www.nca.or.jp). Always verify with local test centers or Prometric.
Passing the SSW test opens doors to work in 14 sectors, including nursing care, agriculture, construction, and hospitality, with salaries comparable to Japanese workers. SSW (i) allows a 5-year stay, while SSW (ii) offers indefinite stay and family accompaniment.
Since its launch in 2019, the SSW program has grown, with increasing participation in sectors like agriculture and nursing care. As of June 2024, 27,786 workers were in the agriculture sector alone, reflecting rising demand. Below is a graph showing estimated SSW workers across all sectors from 2019 to 2024.