2025-12-16

An increasing number of foreign nationals working in Japan under the Technical Intern Training Program wish to continue working in Japan after completing their training. This has drawn attention to the possibility of transitioning to Specified Skilled Worker status. This article explains the differences between Technical Intern Training and Specified Skilled Worker status, along with important points to note when transition is possible.

Differences Between Technical Intern Training and Specified Skilled Worker

Technical Intern Training and Specified Skilled Worker differ significantly in their purpose and the nature of the residence status.

Technical Intern Training is not intended for “working in Japan.” Its purpose is to impart Japanese skills, techniques, and knowledge to foreign nationals from developing countries, enabling them to contribute to their home countries’ development. Consequently, work duties are strictly limited to the training plan’s scope, with stringent restrictions on overtime, changing employers, and changing job types.

In contrast, the Specified Skilled Worker status is a residence status established to address labor shortages, with “working” as its primary purpose. It is recognized for specific sectors such as nursing care, food service, construction, and manufacturing, and changing employers may be permitted in some cases. Furthermore, one condition is that the salary level must be equivalent to or higher than that of Japanese nationals, offering more stable treatment than Technical Intern Training.

As such, the two systems differ significantly in both purpose and structure. Therefore, it is essential to understand these differences before considering a transition.

Is transition from Technical Intern Training to Specified Skilled Worker possible?

To answer directly, transition from Technical Intern Training to Specified Skilled Worker is possible. However, not all technical interns can transition; certain conditions must be met.

Key requirements include successfully completing Technical Intern Training Category 2, or, even if not transitioning to Category 3, passing a skills assessment test and Japanese language test relevant to the Specified Skilled Worker field. Crucially, passing these examinations is mandatory under the Specific Skills system; mere Technical Intern Training experience alone does not permit transition.

Furthermore, to work under Specific Skills, an employment contract must be established with a Specific Skills Affiliated Organization (the receiving company). The receiving company also bears legal responsibilities, including creating a support plan and providing living support. Starting transition preparations with the company’s cooperation before the Technical Intern Training period ends ensures a smoother transition.

Points to Note for Transition

Several points require attention to ensure a smooth transition from Technical Intern Training to Specified Skilled Worker status.

First, if procedures are initiated near the end of the residence period, the screening may not be completed in time, potentially requiring a temporary return to the home country. When transitioning, it is crucial to confirm the application schedule and examination dates in advance and prepare early.

Furthermore, while changing jobs is possible after transitioning, changing to a field outside your designated area is generally not permitted. For example, if you obtain Specific Skilled Worker Type 1 in the manufacturing field, you cannot change to the nursing care field. Therefore, you need to choose your job type based on your future career plans.

Additionally, unlike Technical Intern Training students, Specific Skilled Workers must work as immediately productive members of the workplace while still receiving support. You may feel overwhelmed by increased responsibilities or job duties. In such cases, thorough adjustments to the work environment must be made between the individual and the host company.

Summary

Transitioning from Technical Intern Training to Specified Skilled Worker status is possible. However, multiple conditions must be met, including passing the examination and securing a contract with a company. By correctly understanding the differences between the systems and key points to note, and preparing early, you can achieve stable employment under the Specified Skilled Worker status.