Specified Skilled Worker (i)
Workers with tested skills filling labour shortages in designated industry sectors (e.g. care, food, construction).
The Specified Skilled Worker (i) is a Japanese work & skilled visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~¥4,000 on grant; Certificate of Eligibility is free) and processing time (~1-3 months for the Certificate of Eligibility), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Specified Skilled Worker (i) is for
Workers with tested skills filling labour shortages in designated industry sectors (e.g. care, food, construction).
No family sponsorship and a 5-year cap; progress toward PR by upgrading to SSW (ii).
Specified Skilled Worker (i) - eligibility criteria
- Pass the sector skills test and a Japanese-language test (or complete Technical Intern Training ii)
- Job in one of the designated industry fields
- Employment contract meeting Japanese standards
- Support plan provided by the employer or registered agency
- Health and conduct requirements met
Specified Skilled Worker (i) cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Specified Skilled Worker (i) (Japan) is ~¥4,000 on grant; Certificate of Eligibility is free, with an indicative processing time of ~1-3 months for the Certificate of Eligibility. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at Immigration Services Agency of Japan.
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Certificate of Eligibility filed in Japan; visa at a consulate, or change of status from Technical Intern |
| Length of stay | Up to 5 years total (renewed in increments) |
| Work rights | Work in the designated specified-skills sector |
| Study rights | Study not the purpose; limited |
| Government fee | ~¥4,000 on grant; Certificate of Eligibility is free |
| Processing time | ~1-3 months for the Certificate of Eligibility |
| Route to PR | No family sponsorship and a 5-year cap; progress toward PR by upgrading to SSW (ii). |
Pathway & next steps
No family sponsorship and a 5-year cap; progress toward PR by upgrading to SSW (ii).
Many applicants also compare SSW Type 2 · Specified Skilled Worker (ii), Technical Intern · Technical Intern Training (i / ii / iii), Nursing Care · Nursing Care (Kaigo). Run a free VisaChief check to see which Japanese route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Specified Skilled Worker (i) pitfalls we fix
Specified Skilled Worker (i) - frequently asked questions
How much does the Specified Skilled Worker (i) cost?
The Specified Skilled Worker (i) government fee is ~¥4,000 on grant; Certificate of Eligibility is free. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at Immigration Services Agency of Japan before applying.
How long does the Specified Skilled Worker (i) take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~1-3 months for the Certificate of Eligibility. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Specified Skilled Worker (i) lead to permanent residence?
No family sponsorship and a 5-year cap; progress toward PR by upgrading to SSW (ii).
Can I work on the Specified Skilled Worker (i)?
Work rights: Work in the designated specified-skills sector.
Who can apply for the Specified Skilled Worker (i)?
Workers with tested skills filling labour shortages in designated industry sectors (e.g. care, food, construction).
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Japan government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- Immigration Services Agency of Japan - official Japan immigration authority