2026-02-12

For companies accepting Specified Skilled Workers, choosing the right “Registered Support Organization” is critically important. Kanagawa Prefecture, in particular, boasts a diverse range of industries, making the quality of support services a key consideration. This article explains the basics of Registered Support Organizations, Kanagawa’s industrial characteristics, and the features of popular registered support agencies.

What is a Registered Support Organization?

A Registered Support Organization, officially called a “Registered Support Agency,” is an institution that performs legally mandated support services on behalf of companies (host organizations) accepting specific skilled foreign workers. These organizations are registered with the Immigration Services Agency (ISA) and support foreign nationals in achieving stable employment and living in Japan.

Specific support includes pre- and post-arrival orientation, securing housing, explaining living rules, supporting Japanese language learning, handling consultations and complaints, and assisting with administrative procedures. Since this support is considered “mandatory,” failure to provide it appropriately may subject the accepting company to guidance or corrective action.

Therefore, for companies considering accepting Specified Skilled Workers, selecting a Specified Skilled Worker Support Registered Organization with proven track records and reliability is a crucial point for the smooth operation of the system.

Characteristics of Kanagawa Prefecture’s Industrial Structure

Kanagawa Prefecture is one of Japan’s leading industrial hubs, featuring many sectors highly compatible with the Specified Skilled Worker system. In manufacturing, automotive-related industries, electrical/electronic components, and chemical industries thrive, with numerous factories and research facilities concentrated in the Yokohama and Kawasaki areas.

Furthermore, the prefecture hosts international ports like Yokohama Port and Kawasaki Port, supporting a vibrant logistics and warehousing sector. Furthermore, tourism, lodging, and food service industries are in high demand, particularly in the Hakone and Shonan areas. Alongside the nursing care sector, these industries are actively accepting foreign workers under the Specified Skilled Worker program.

Given that the required support, as well as the desired nationalities and Japanese language proficiency levels of foreign workers, vary significantly by industry in Kanagawa Prefecture, the presence of Specified Skilled Worker Support Registered Organizations that understand local conditions and industry characteristics provides significant peace of mind for both companies and foreign workers.

Popular Registered Support Organizations for Specified Skilled Workers

Popular registered support organizations in Kanagawa Prefecture share several common characteristics. First, they possess extensive support experience within the prefecture and are well-versed in administrative procedures and local conditions. Such organizations are highly regarded because they can handle everything consistently, from immigration procedures to municipal resident registration and daily life support.

Second, multilingual support and consultations in the worker’s native language are crucial. Registration support agencies with systems in place to handle major Specific Skills workers from countries like Vietnam, the Philippines, and Indonesia are particularly trusted for preventing issues.

Furthermore, a clear fee structure and thorough explanations to companies are also reasons for their popularity. Specific Skills Support Registration Agencies that go beyond mere administrative tasks to provide retention support for foreign workers and advice to companies are chosen as long-term partners.

Summary

When accepting foreign workers under the Specified Skilled Worker program in Kanagawa Prefecture, selecting a registered support organization that understands the industry’s characteristics is key to success. Comparing and evaluating factors such as track record, support systems, and multilingual capabilities comprehensively, and choosing a registered support organization suited to your company, should lead to stable employment and workforce retention.