2026-06-17

Interest in the “Specified Skilled Worker” system is growing among foreign nationals seeking long-term residency in Japan or aiming for future naturalization, as well as among Japanese companies struggling with severe labor shortages. This article explains the benefits of “online applications,” which dramatically streamline the process, and the role of “Registered Support Organizations,” which provide strong support for companies accepting foreign workers.

The Potential of the “Specific Skills” System

For foreign nationals who wish to live in Japan long-term and eventually naturalize, choosing the right status of residence (visa) is crucial. The “Specific Skills” system is a leading option. Enacted to address Japan’s severe labor shortage, this system broadly accepts foreign nationals who can contribute immediately in specific industrial sectors.

There are two categories of Specific Skills: Category 1 and Category 2. If you meet certain conditions and advance to “Specific Skills Category 2,” not only will restrictions on the renewal of your period of stay be lifted, but you will also be able to bring your family with you. This is a significant advantage for foreign nationals considering permanent residency or naturalization in Japan in the future.

On the other hand, for Japanese companies looking to hire foreign workers, this system allows for the smooth recruitment of personnel with specialized knowledge and a certain level of Japanese language proficiency. As a result, it is being utilized more actively every year as a highly attractive system that directly contributes to business expansion and revitalization of the workplace.

Benefits and How to Use “Online Applications”

When applying for residence statuses such as “Specified Skilled Worker,” it was previously necessary to visit the Immigration Bureau (Immigration Services Agency) in person multiple times. However, this posed a significant burden in terms of time and effort for both foreign nationals and companies.

Nowadays, however, “online applications”—which allow the entire process to be completed over the internet—have become the mainstream method. By adopting online applications, documents can be submitted 24 hours a day from an office or home, freeing applicants from long wait times at the counter. Additionally, there are many benefits in terms of operational efficiency, such as going paperless and being able to check the status of applications in real time.

When Japanese companies hire foreign nationals, managing the schedule leading up to their start date is crucial. Utilizing online applications significantly speeds up the entire process. Furthermore, since the required documents and input formats are clearly managed on-screen, this reduces errors in filling out forms and leads to a more reliable and smooth visa acquisition process.

Comprehensive Support from “Registered Support Organizations”

Japanese companies hiring Specific Skilled Foreign Workers (particularly Category 1) are legally required to provide comprehensive support in both personal and professional aspects to help them smoothly adapt to life and work in Japan. However, it is by no means uncommon for companies to lack multilingual staff or to be unfamiliar with the complex legal procedures involved.

This is where “Registered Support Organizations,” certified by the Immigration Bureau, prove invaluable. Registered Support Organizations handle a wide range of support services on behalf of companies, including transportation to and from the airport, securing housing, accompanying employees to government offices for procedures, and providing opportunities for Japanese language learning—all managed as a comprehensive package.

Of course, you can also entrust them with support for complex visa-related procedures, such as online applications. By making smart use of Registered Support Organizations, companies can focus on their core business operations while creating an environment where foreign employees can work with peace of mind for the long term, ultimately leading to improved retention rates.

Summary

The Specified Skilled Worker Program is a groundbreaking system that expands opportunities for foreign nationals wishing to live in Japan and supports the future of companies looking to hire foreign workers. By making the most of streamlined procedures through “online applications” and the comprehensive support provided by “Registered Support Organizations,” we can achieve a harmonious society and business success in Japan.