Specified Skilled Worker (SSW): Your Direct Path to Working in Japan

Do you aspire to work in Japan and build a professional career in high-demand sectors? The Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) visa offers a direct and efficient route to employment. At Jobpartner Japanese Language School SriLanka, we provide the essential language training and specialized support to help you achieve your career goals in Japan.

The SSW visa is an ideal pathway for individuals seeking direct employment in Japan, particularly suited for those looking to build specific skills and experience in crucial industries. While valuable work experience is beneficial, this visa category also welcomes applicants eager to develop skills in essential sectors.

Key job categories typically available under the SSW visa in SriLanka include:

  •   Caregiving: Providing vital support in elderly care facilities.

  •   Agriculture: Contributing to Japan’s vital farming sector.

  •   Food Service Industry: Roles in restaurants and hospitality.

Your Guaranteed Pathway to Japan

The Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) visa is your direct pathway to a professional career in Japan. This guide breaks down the entire process into clear, manageable steps. At Jobpartner, we will be with you at every stage, providing expert guidance and support to ensure a smooth transition from Sri Lanka to your first day at work in Japan.

Step 1: Initial Consultation

  • Contact Jobpartner for a free consultation.
  • Discuss your age, identify your skilled industry field and your goals.
  • We assess your eligibility, explain the entire pathway, and create a personalized plan to help you pass the necessary exams.

Step 2: Pass the Required SSW Examinations

  • Enroll in a Japanese language course at our Sri Lankan center and pay the course fees.
  • Dedicate yourself to the course, complete all studies, and successfully Pass both the Japanese Language Test (JFT-Basic A2 or JLPT N4) and the specific Skills Evaluation Test for your chosen industry.
  • We provide targeted language training to ensure you pass the Japanese test. We also offer guidance for the skills test, inform you about exam schedules, and assist with the application process.

Step 3: Secure a Job Offer & Sign Employment Contract

  • Find a Japanese company to hire you.
  • Prepare your resume, participate in interviews, and sign the employment contract.
  • We match your profile with our extensive network of Japanese companies, arrange interviews for you, and help review your employment contract to ensure it meets all legal standards.

Step 4: Company Applies for Certificate of Eligibility (COE)

  • Your employer in Japan formally applies for your work permit.
  • Provide all necessary documents (passport copy, exam certificates, etc.) to us promptly.
  • The hiring company, with Jobpartner acting as the Registered Support Organization, prepares and submits the complete application package, including the mandatory “Support Plan,” to Japanese Immigration. We manage and track this entire process.

Step 5: COE Approval & Issuance

  • The Certificate of Eligibility is issued by Japan Immigration.
  • Awaiting the arrival of the original COE document in Sri Lanka.
  • Once the COE is issued, we will ensure it is securely couriered directly to you.

Step 6: Fulfill SLBFE Requirements

  • Complete the mandatory pre-departure process with the Sri Lankan Bureau of Foreign Employment (SLBFE).
  • Register with the SLBFE and complete all required training and documentation.
  • We will provide complete guidance on navigating the SLBFE procedures to ensure you are fully compliant with local regulations before departure.

Step 7: Apply for the SSW Visa

  • Submit your visa application at the Embassy of Japan in Sri Lanka.
  • Present your original COE and other required documents at the embassy or its application center.
  • We will assist you in preparing a perfect visa file, ensuring all documents are correct and complete to maximize the chance of a smooth approval.

Step 8: Visa Granted & Prepare for Departure

  • Receive your passport with the SSW visa.
  • Finalize your travel arrangements and pack your bags.
  • We assist with flight arrangements, provide a comprehensive pre-departure orientation (covering Japanese work culture, etiquette, and daily life), and coordinate your arrival with our Japan headquarters.

Step 9: Arrive in Japan & Start Your Career

  • Land in Japan, receive your Residence Card, and begin work.
  • Register your address at the local municipal office within 14 days and focus on your new job.
  • Our Japan headquarters provides airport pickup, assistance with accommodation, and help with essential tasks like opening a bank account, registering your address, and setting up a phone. We will provide continuous support for your work and life in Japan as outlined in the official Support Plan.

Applicant Eligibility:

To qualify for the SSW visa, applicants are generally required to demonstrate a foundational level of Japanese language proficiency. This means having a qualification equivalent to:

  • JLPT N4
  • JFT (Japanese Foundation Test for Basic) A2
  • NAT-TEST N4

Additionally, applicants must successfully pass a skill proficiency test related to their chosen job category. This test assesses the practical knowledge and abilities required for the specific role in Japan. The age limit for applicants to this visa is typically 18 to 30 years.

Our Support for Your Success:

Jobpartner Japanese Language School SriLanka is your dedicated partner throughout this process. We offer:

  • Targeted Language Training: Our Japanese language courses are designed to help you achieve the required JLPT N4, JFT A2, NAT, or JLCT N4 certification.
  • Skill Proficiency Test Support: We provide the necessary guidance and assistance to prepare you for the SSW Skill Proficiency Test. Crucially, these Skill Proficiency Tests are conducted right here in Sri Lanka for key sectors like Agriculture, Food Service, and Caregiving, making your application process more convenient.

If the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) visa aligns with your career ambitions, connect with Jobpartner Japanese Language School SriLanka today and take the first step towards a fulfilling job in Japan!