2026-03-16

For food service businesses accepting Specified Skilled Foreign Workers, changing your registered support agency is a crucial procedure. This article clearly explains the key points regarding Specified Skilled Workers, registered support agencies, the change process, and the food service industry, outlining the specific steps and important considerations.

What is the Role of a Registered Support Organization in the Food Service Industry under the Specified Skilled Worker Program?

The Specified Skilled Worker status is a residence qualification designed to accept foreign workers in fields experiencing severe labor shortages, with the food service industry being one such field. Within the food service sector, workers can engage in a wide range of duties, including cooking, customer service, and store management support.

When hiring foreign nationals under Specified Skilled Worker Type 1, the accepting company has an obligation to support their occupational and daily lives. This support work can be outsourced to a “Registered Support Organization.” These organizations provide services such as pre-arrival guidance, housing support, life orientation, and consultation services.

The food service industry often involves long operating hours and shift work, necessitating a detailed support system. Therefore, the quality and responsiveness of the Registered Support Organization directly impact the retention rate of foreign workers and the prevention of issues.

Reasons for Changing a Registered Support Organization and the Procedure Flow

The main reasons food service businesses change their registered support organization include dissatisfaction with the support provided, slow response times, cost issues, and communication gaps. Considering the workplace retention of Specified Skilled Foreigners, reviewing the support system for a more appropriate one is a critical management decision.

Changing the registered support organization itself is possible, but proper procedures are required. First, a new support contract must be signed with the new registered support organization. Then, submit a notification of support plan changes to the Immigration Services Agency (ISA). This notification must be filed within 14 days of the contract change date.

It is crucial to coordinate the termination date with the old agency and the start date with the new agency to avoid any gaps in support during the transition. Given the demanding nature of on-site operations in the food service industry, thorough advance preparation and a planned approach are essential.

Points to Note When Changing a Registered Support Organization in the Food Service Industry

When changing a registered support organization in the food service industry, it is risky to base the decision solely on cost. It is crucial to verify the practical support services offered, such as multilingual support availability, emergency response systems during nights and holidays, and the implementation of regular consultations.

Furthermore, under the Specified Skilled Worker system, inadequate support may subject the receiving company to guidance or improvement orders. It is essential to fully understand that even when outsourcing to a support agency, the ultimate responsibility lies with the receiving company.

Additionally, when changing agencies, careful explanation to the foreign worker is indispensable. To avoid causing anxiety, clearly communicate that the support system will continue and specify the new contact point for inquiries. Since teamwork is vital in the food service industry, maintaining trust is paramount.

Summary

While changing registered support agencies is possible under the Specified Skilled Worker (Food Service Industry) program, proper procedures and careful agency selection are essential. The quality of support directly impacts worker retention. Correctly understanding the system and responding systematically are the keys to success.