2026-03-19

The “Specific Skills” visa is gaining attention as a system for accepting foreign workers. However, when actually proceeding with an application, many people likely have questions such as “What documents are required for the Specific Skills visa?” and “Who is responsible for preparing them—the company or the applicant?” In this article, we explain the basics of the documents required for a Specific Skills visa application and key points to keep in mind when preparing them.

What Is the “Specific Skills” Program? Overview of the System and Application Process

“Specific Skills” is a status of residence that allows foreign workers to be employed in industries facing severe labor shortages. This program began in 2019, and the acceptance of foreign workers is progressing in multiple sectors, including the food service industry, nursing care, and construction.

There are two types of Specific Skills: “Specific Skill Type 1” and “Specific Skill Type 2.” In most cases, applicants will first apply for Specific Skill Type 1. While the application is technically filed by the foreign national themselves, in practice, it is common for the hiring company or a registered support organization to assist with the procedures.

The required documents are extensive and include not only documents related to the foreign national but also documents proving the company’s business operations and other details. The screening process is primarily conducted by the Immigration Services Agency (ISA). If documents are incomplete or missing, the screening process may be prolonged. Therefore, it is important to thoroughly understand the required documents for the Specific Skills visa in advance and prepare them systematically.

Required Documents for the Specific Skills Visa (To be prepared by the foreign national)

When applying for the Specific Skills visa, you must first prepare documents related to the foreign national. Typical required documents include the following:

・Application for Change of Status of Residence or Application for Issuance of Certificate of Eligibility
・Copy of passport
・Copy of Residence Card (if residing in Japan)
・Resume
・Certificates of passing the skills test and Japanese language test
・Copy of employment contract

Since the Specific Skilled Worker visa requires a certain level of technical skills and Japanese language proficiency, certificates of passing the relevant exams are crucial documents. Additionally, submission of an employment contract is required to demonstrate that the employment conditions are appropriate.

For documents prepared in a foreign language, you may be required to submit a Japanese translation. Since incomplete translations may affect the review process, it is important to provide accurate translations.

Required Documents for the Specific Skills Visa Prepared by the Host Company

When applying for the Specific Skills visa, there are many documents that the host company must submit. This is to confirm that the foreign national can work in an appropriate environment. The main required documents for the Specific Skills visa include the following:

・Explanatory document regarding the employment contract
・Support plan
・Certificate of Registered Matters
・Financial statements
・Company profile
・Documents indicating social insurance enrollment status

The “Support Plan” is particularly important. Under Specific Skills Category 1, the host company is required to provide support to help the foreign national live in Japan. This includes, for example, support for Japanese language learning, lifestyle counseling, and assistance with administrative procedures.

If it is difficult for a company to provide this support in-house, it is possible to outsource it to a registered support agency. In this case, additional documents, such as a support outsourcing agreement, must also be submitted.

Summary

When applying for the Specific Skills visa, both the foreign national and the host company must prepare a large number of required documents. Since incomplete documentation can lead to delays in the review process, it is important to confirm the required documents in advance. By correctly understanding the system and preparing systematically, you will be able to proceed smoothly with the Specific Skills visa application.