2026-02-19

The “Registered Support Organization” system is essential when accepting specified skilled foreign workers. The Ministry of Justice (Immigration Services Agency) oversees the entire specified skilled worker system. This article explains the overview of the specified skilled worker system, the role of registered support organizations, and their relationship with the Ministry of Justice.

What is Specified Skilled Worker?

Specified Skilled Worker is a residence status that permits foreign workers with certain expertise or skills to work in industries facing severe labor shortages within Japan. Established in 2019, it comprises two categories: “Specified Skilled Worker Type 1” and “Specified Skilled Worker Type 2.”

Specific Skills Type 1 is for foreign nationals who have passed a certain level of skills test and Japanese language test. It allows employment in 16 fields (subject to change over time), including food service, nursing care, construction, and manufacturing. Specific Skills Type 2, on the other hand, requires more advanced skills. It is a residence status with no restrictions on the renewal of the period of stay and allows family members to accompany the holder.

A key feature of this system is its emphasis on creating an environment where foreign nationals can work and live stably in Japan, rather than merely securing labor. Therefore, accepting companies are required to fulfill certain responsibilities, such as providing living support to foreign nationals and handling various notifications.

What is a Registered Support Organization?

A Registered Support Organization is an institution that performs legally mandated support services on behalf of companies (host organizations) accepting Specific Skilled Foreigners. Specifically, it provides support to help foreign nationals live and work smoothly in Japan, including conducting pre-arrival guidance, assisting with securing housing, supporting Japanese language learning, and accompanying them for administrative procedures.

To operate, a Registered Support Organization must be registered with the Ministry of Justice (Immigration Services Agency). Registration requires strict criteria, including a clean record of past misconduct and the establishment of a robust support system. While accepting companies can establish their own support systems, the significant practical burden means most companies currently utilize Registered Support Organizations.

Selecting an appropriate registered support organization is crucial for host companies, as it contributes to improving the retention rate of specific skilled foreign workers and preventing violations of the system.

What is the relationship with the Ministry of Justice?

The Immigration Services Agency, an external bureau of the Ministry of Justice, oversees the Specific Skilled Worker system. It plays a central role in system operations, including granting, renewing, and changing residence statuses; registering and supervising support organizations; and accepting various notifications.

Registered Support Organizations are obligated to regularly report on their support activities. If false reports or inadequate support are found, they may face registration revocation or improvement orders. This underscores the close relationship between Registered Support Organizations and the Ministry of Justice.

Furthermore, when accepting companies and Registered Support Organizations correctly understand and implement the system, it contributes to protecting the rights of foreign workers and promoting the health of Japan’s labor market. The Ministry of Justice provides ongoing guidance and supervision to ensure the system’s transparency and proper operation.

Summary

The Specified Skilled Worker System is a crucial “foreign worker employment system” primarily operated by the Ministry of Justice. Registered Support Organizations play a vital role in supporting this system at the operational level. Establishing an appropriate support framework, based on a correct understanding of the relationship with the Ministry of Justice, leads to stable employment for Specified Skilled Foreign Workers.