2025-09-29

The Specified Skilled Worker system allows industries facing labor shortages to hire foreign nationals possessing specific skills. Here, we explain key points companies should note when hiring foreign workers.

What is Specified Skilled Worker?

“Specified Skilled Worker” is a new residence status established in April 2019, enabling foreign nationals to work in labor-shortage sectors. It targets 14 industries facing particularly severe labor shortages (such as nursing care, food service, construction, agriculture, and lodging).

There are two types of Specified Skilled Worker status: “Specified Skilled Worker Type 1” and “Specified Skilled Worker Type 2”. Type 1 is for foreign nationals possessing certain skills and Japanese language ability, allowing them to work for up to 5 years. Foreign nationals with highly specialized skills can transition to Type 2. Type 2 allows for family reunification and long-term employment.

Unlike the Technical Intern Training Program, the Specified Skilled Worker system aims for immediate workforce contribution. For accepting companies, it is an effective means to enhance on-site capabilities. The introduction of this system enables Japanese companies to directly hire foreign workers under employment contracts, facilitating more stable recruitment.

Procedure for Hiring Foreign Workers

When hiring foreign workers under the Specified Skilled Worker System, the company must first confirm that its business falls under the industries specified by the system. It must also verify that the foreign worker has passed the required skill assessment test and Japanese language test.

The hiring process consists of four stages: “Recruitment,” “Selection,” “Residence Status Application,” and “Preparation for Acceptance.” The residence status application procedure is particularly complex. Application documents and a support plan must be submitted to the Immigration Services Agency.

Furthermore, the hiring company has a duty to provide follow-up support to the foreign worker, such as assistance with daily life and Japanese language learning. In this case, it is crucial to decide in advance whether to establish an in-house support system or to entrust the task to a registered support organization. Additionally, since a certain amount of time is required before hiring, systematic schedule management is also a key challenge.

Key Points for Hiring

There are three key points when hiring foreign nationals under the Specified Skilled Worker system.

First, to select individuals who can serve as long-term assets, prioritize not only skills and Japanese language ability but also adaptability to the company culture and teamwork skills.

Second, ensure a robust support system is in place post-hiring. Consider the differences in lifestyle habits and culture for the foreign workers being hired. To achieve this, providing interpreter support and enhancing educational systems are indispensable for preventing workplace conflicts before they arise.

Finally, thirdly, strict compliance is essential. Failure to establish contract terms and working environments that comply with laws and regulations may result in the employment structure being deemed inappropriate, potentially damaging the company’s credibility. While the Specified Skilled Worker system contributes to alleviating labor shortages, appropriate preparation and ongoing support for accepting foreign workers are indispensable.

Summary

When hiring foreign workers under the Specified Skilled Worker system, emphasis must be placed not only on skills and Japanese language ability but also on adaptability and teamwork. Furthermore, establishing post-hiring support systems and ensuring strict compliance are necessary.