2025-10-30

Specified Skilled Worker status is a system allowing employers to hire foreign nationals with certain skills and Japanese language ability to address labor shortages. While 14 fields are eligible, they are further subdivided into detailed categories under the “List of Industry Categories.” We will explain this in detail.

What is the Specified Skilled Worker System?

The Specified Skilled Worker system is a residency status established in April 2019 to address Japan’s severe labor shortages. It allows foreign nationals possessing certain skills and Japanese language ability to work for companies within Japan.

The Specified Skilled Worker system is divided into “Specified Skilled Worker Type 1” and “Specified Skilled Worker Type 2”. Type 1 is for those engaged in relatively practical work, such as on-site operations. Type 2 targets foreign nationals with more advanced skills, allowing for residence period extensions and family accompaniment.

While addressing labor shortages has traditionally relied on individuals completing technical intern training programs and international students, the introduction of the Specific Skills system has enabled foreign nationals to play a broader role across Japanese industries. The government positions this system as a pillar for securing human resources, and further expansion of the system is anticipated.

Eligible Industries

The industries eligible for the Specified Skilled Worker program are limited to those facing particularly severe labor shortages. Specifically, 14 sectors are designated: nursing care, building cleaning, basic materials industry, industrial machinery manufacturing, electrical and electronic information-related industries, construction, shipbuilding and marine engineering, automobile maintenance, aviation, lodging, agriculture, fisheries, food manufacturing, and food service.

In these sectors, foreign nationals who pass the Specified Skilled Worker Assessment Test or the Japanese Language Proficiency Test can be directly employed. However, since the required skill levels and test contents differ by industry, foreign nationals must confirm in advance which sector they can work in and which test they need to pass.

Note that the eligible sectors may be revised in response to future changes in labor demand. It is important to check the latest information on the official website of the Immigration Services Agency (ISA) or other relevant sources.

What is the Industry Classification List?

The “Industry Classification List” is a detailed breakdown of the 14 fields defined under the Specified Skilled Worker system, further categorized by specific occupations and work tasks.

For example, within the Manufacturing field, it is subdivided into categories such as “Basic Materials Industry,” “Industrial Machinery Manufacturing,” and “Electrical and Electronic Information-Related Industry.” The required skill levels and examinations differ for each category. In the nursing care field, knowledge and practical experience as a candidate for certified care worker (Kaigo Fukushi-shi) are required. In the construction field, specific work categories like site work, piping, and formwork construction are defined.

Companies hiring foreign nationals must use this classification list to confirm which field their operations fall under and which exams qualify candidates for employment. Applying under an incorrect classification may result in rejection. Therefore, it is essential to always check the latest list when applying.

The Industry Classification List is published on the official websites of the Immigration Bureau and relevant industry associations. Employing companies and support organizations should check it regularly.

Summary

The Specified Skilled Worker system is crucial for supporting Japan’s labor market. However, applications may stall if the target industries and industry classifications are not accurately understood. Employing companies and foreign nationals considering obtaining a residence status are advised to proceed with the application process only after confirming the latest “Industry Classification List”.