2026-03-27

In the construction industry, which faces a severe labor shortage, the “Specified Skilled Worker” program for accepting foreign workers is gaining attention. The existence of “Registered Support Organizations” is particularly important for companies. This article explains the role, necessity, and benefits of using Registered Support Organizations in the construction sector under the Specified Skilled Worker program.

What Is “Specific Skills: Construction”? Understanding the Basics of the System

“Specific Skills” is a residency status established against the backdrop of Japan’s severe labor shortage, enabling foreign nationals with specific skills to work in Japan. The construction industry, in particular, faces a chronic labor shortage, and many companies are considering accepting Specific Skills foreign workers.

In the construction sector under the Specific Skills program, foreign workers are permitted to work in many occupations, including formwork construction, rebar installation, scaffolding, and construction machinery operation. A major feature of this program is the ability to secure workers who can contribute immediately. However, companies that accept Specific Skills foreign workers are subject to various support obligations, such as providing living support and consultation services. Examples include conducting orientation sessions on life in Japan, providing opportunities for Japanese language learning, and assisting with administrative procedures.

While companies can provide this support in-house, many choose to outsource these support services to “Registered Support Organizations” that possess specialized knowledge. In the construction sector, utilizing these Registered Support Organizations is a key consideration.

What Are Registered Support Organizations? Their Role in the Construction Sector

A Registered Support Organization is an agency that provides support services to foreign nationals on behalf of companies that accept Specific Skilled Workers. Corporations and organizations registered with the Japan Immigration Services Agency (JISA) fulfill this role. Under the Specific Skilled Worker Program, companies are obligated to provide 10 types of support to ensure that foreign nationals can work and live stably in Japan. Specifically, this includes transportation upon arrival, orientation on daily life, support for Japanese language learning, consultation services, and assistance with administrative procedures.

In the construction industry, where companies must focus on on-site operations, handling all of this support in-house often places a significant burden on them. Therefore, by outsourcing support to a Registered Support Organization, companies can concentrate on their core business operations.

Furthermore, since Registered Support Organizations are experienced in communicating with foreign nationals and providing lifestyle support, they help prevent problems and resolve them quickly. The presence of Registered Support Organizations is a major asset for the smooth acceptance of Specific Skilled Foreign Nationals in the construction sector.

Benefits of Using Registered Support Organizations in the Construction Sector

The greatest benefit of using a registered support organization for the Specific Skills program in the construction sector is the significant reduction in the burden on the host company. The Specific Skills program requires various administrative procedures, such as creating support plans for foreign workers and reporting on their implementation status.

By utilizing a Registered Support Organization, these tasks can be entrusted to experts, thereby reducing the risk of violating the system’s regulations. Particularly for companies accepting foreign workers for the first time, the ability to receive support in understanding the system and navigating procedures provides significant peace of mind.

Furthermore, for foreign workers, having a point of contact where they can consult in their native language fosters a sense of security. Comprehensive support for daily living improves retention rates in the workplace, which ultimately leads to a stable workforce for the company. The construction industry is expected to continue increasing its use of foreign workers. In this context, the appropriate use of Registered Support Organizations will be key to the smooth employment of foreign workers.

Summary

In the construction sector under the Specified Skilled Worker program, employers are required to provide support services—such as assistance with daily living—in addition to hiring foreign workers. Registered Support Organizations specialize in providing this kind of support. Utilizing these organizations is an extremely effective way to reduce the burden on companies and promote the retention of foreign workers.