SSW Type 1 vs SSW Type 2: which Japanese visa is right for you?
Two Specified Skilled Worker tiers: SSW(i) is time-limited with no family, while SSW(ii) allows renewals, family and a route toward permanent residence for designated industries.
Side-by-side comparison
| Feature | Specified Skilled Worker (i) (SSW Type 1) | Specified Skilled Worker (ii) (SSW Type 2) |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Temporary | Temporary |
| Who it's for | Workers with tested skills filling labour shortages in designated industry sectors (e.g. care, food, construction). | Experienced specified-skill workers with supervisory-level skills in eligible sectors seeking renewable, family-friendly status. |
| Government cost | ~¥4,000 on grant; Certificate of Eligibility is free | ~¥4,000 on grant (change of status / extension) |
| Processing time | ~1-3 months for the Certificate of Eligibility | ~2 weeks-2 months |
| Length of stay | Up to 5 years total (renewed in increments) | Renewable indefinitely (3-year, 1-year or 6-month periods) |
| Where to apply | Certificate of Eligibility filed in Japan; visa at a consulate, or change of status from Technical Intern | Change of status filed in Japan |
| Work rights | Work in the designated specified-skills sector | Work in the designated sector at an advanced/supervisory level |
| Pathway to PR | No family sponsorship and a 5-year cap; progress toward PR by upgrading to SSW (ii). | Renewable without a cap and allows dependants, so it counts toward permanent residence. |
Which is right for you?
Specified Skilled Worker (i) (SSW Type 1)
Workers with tested skills filling labour shortages in designated industry sectors (e.g. care, food, construction).
Full SSW Type 1 guide →Specified Skilled Worker (ii) (SSW Type 2)
Experienced specified-skill workers with supervisory-level skills in eligible sectors seeking renewable, family-friendly status.
Full SSW Type 2 guide →Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, SSW Type 1 or SSW Type 2?
On indicative 2025-26 government costs, Specified Skilled Worker (i) (SSW Type 1) is the lowest at ~¥4,000 on grant; Certificate of Eligibility is free. Government fees change periodically - confirm before applying.
Which is processed faster, SSW Type 1 or SSW Type 2?
Indicatively Specified Skilled Worker (i) (SSW Type 1) is the quickest at ~1-3 months for the Certificate of Eligibility. Actual timeframes depend on caseload and how complete your application is.
What's the main difference between SSW Type 1 and SSW Type 2?
Specified Skilled Worker (i) (SSW Type 1) is for workers with tested skills filling labour shortages in designated industry sectors (e.g. care, food, construction). Specified Skilled Worker (ii) (SSW Type 2) is for experienced specified-skill workers with supervisory-level skills in eligible sectors seeking renewable, family-friendly status.