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Specific skill visa Q&A

Updated: July 2025, 1

Table of contents

1. System overview related

2. About recruitment

3. Residence status application related

4. Exam related

5. Registration support organization registration application related

6. Support relationship

7. Bilateral arrangements

8. Notification department

1. System overview related

➀Where can I check the application form and the documents required for it?

Please check the Ministry of Justice website for the latest information on the documents required for application and examples.

②Where can I ask questions regarding the specific skills system?

The Ministry of Justice will accept inquiries regarding the outline of the Specified Skilled Worker System, but depending on the nature of the question, we may refer you to related ministries such as the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare.
For specific questions regarding each field, please contact the ministries and agencies in charge of each field.

③It is said that there is no problem in engaging in related work that Japanese people are normally engaged in, but is there a permissible limit, such as how much per day?

It is said that it is okay for Japanese nationals to engage in work that is equivalent to work that foreigners with specified skills would normally engage in, as it is considered to be related to the original work. The specific percentage of permissible activities for engaging in this ancillary work varies from person to person.

④Can a foreigner with specific skills in the agricultural field perform work such as snow removal or repair of agricultural tool sheds during the winter off-season?

In the agricultural sector, the sector-specific operational policy states that "taking into consideration the characteristics of agriculture and the circumstances of rural areas where agricultural production cannot be maintained throughout the year, such as heavy snowfall areas, we will respond flexibly to the range of agricultural-related work that specific skilled foreign nationals can engage in," and the operational guidelines state that "it is acceptable for foreign nationals to engage in incidental work to the related work that Japanese nationals engaged in the said work would normally be engaged in (e.g., manufacturing, processing, transport, and sales of agricultural and livestock products, snow removal work in winter, etc.)." Therefore, work such as snow removal work in winter and repairing farm tool sheds can be performed if it is incidental to the related work that Japanese nationals engaged in work in the agricultural sector would normally be engaged in.

⑤In which specific industrial fields is temporary employment permitted?

As of October 1, 2020, temporary employment is permitted in two fields: agriculture and fisheries.

⑥Why is dispatch only allowed for agriculture and fishing?

In agriculture and fisheries, there are large seasonal fluctuations in work, and there are on-site needs such as securing labor during busy seasons and accommodating labor between multiple production areas. It is considered essential to recognize this.

⑦ The work that Category 1 Specified Skilled Foreigners in the accommodation sector engages in is "work related to the provision of accommodation services such as front desk, planning/public relations, customer service, and restaurant services at accommodation facilities", but for example, only restaurant services Is it okay to have them engage in this?

Whether or not the activities carried out by a specified skilled foreigner fall under the status of residence stipulated in the Immigration Control Act is determined by considering the activities during the period of stay as a whole.
The activities of Specified Skilled Worker No. 1 are "activities that involve engaging in work that requires skills that require a considerable degree of knowledge or experience," and the skills required in the accommodation field include front desk, planning and public relations, customer service, restaurant service, etc. In light of the fact that the test measures the skills related to various jobs (see 1.(1) of Accommodation Sector Operational Guidelines), basically, rather than engaging in only one specific job, It is considered necessary to engage in a wide range of activities related to the above tasks.

⑧I would like to come to Japan with my family. Is it permissible for family members to come with me?

For Specified Skilled Worker No. 1, family members are not allowed to accompany the applicant.
For Specified Skilled Worker No. 2, family members are allowed to accompany you.

⑨If I am approved to change my status from “Study Abroad” to “Specified Skilled Worker”, what will happen to my wife and children’s residence status “Dependent”?

If you are a "Specified Skilled Worker No. 1", you are not allowed to bring your family along, but for example, if you are already residing in Japan with the "Dependent" status of residence, such as the wife and children of an international student, then Changes to "Specified Activities" may be approved.

⑩ Is a permanent residence permit granted based on the residence status of “Specified Skilled Worker”?

The maximum period of stay in Japan with the residence status of "Specified Skilled Worker No. 1" is 5 years.
Therefore, it is difficult to change the residence status to "permanent resident".

⑪Can I drive to work?

After obtaining a driver's license, it is possible to drive in accordance with the Road Traffic Act.

⑫What kind of residence status is "Specified Skills No. 2"? Can I automatically switch to "Specified Skills No. 2" after "Specified Skills No. 1"?

"Specified Skilled Worker No. 2" is a status of residence for foreigners with skilled skills, and it is necessary to have higher skills than "Specified Skilled Worker No. 1".
Possessing this skill level is confirmed through tests, etc.
Therefore, if you pass "Specified Skilled Worker No. 1", you will not automatically be able to move to "Specified Skilled Worker No. 2".
On the other hand, if you have a high level of skill and this is confirmed through an exam, etc., you can obtain the status of residence of "Specified Skilled Worker No. 2" without having to go through the "Specified Skilled Worker No. 1" status.

⑬It is said that foreign nationals residing in the country with the status of residence "Specified Skilled Worker" can change jobs. In what cases is a job change allowed? What procedures are required in that case?

Under the Immigration Control Act, specified skilled foreigners can be used even within the same field where they are required to engage in work that "requires a considerable degree of knowledge or experience" or has "skilled" skills. There are fields in which there can be multiple jobs with different skills.
In such fields, changing jobs will only be permitted after it is confirmed that the foreign national has the skills to perform the job.
In the government's basic policy, there is a further division called ``work division'' within a field, and when a change of job is permitted, it is defined as ``within the same work division or between work divisions for which commonality in skill level has been confirmed through examinations, etc. ”.
In addition, if you change the accepting organization or field when changing jobs, you will need to apply for permission to change the specified skill residence status.

⑭What is the council?

It has been established to ensure the appropriate operation of the specified skills system, and organizations affiliated with specified skills must be members.
Please note that some fields require membership in a council before applying for residence.

2. About recruitment

① Regarding specific skills, should I take the test before or after signing an employment contract with the accepting organization?

In order for foreigners who have not completed Technical Intern Training No. 2 to obtain a specific skill residence status, they must pass a skill test and a Japanese language test.

Regarding the relationship between the examination and the contract, basically, it is assumed that an employment contract will be concluded with the accepting organization after passing the skill test and Japanese language test. However, it is not legally prohibited to take the various examinations after concluding an employment contract, but unless you pass the necessary examinations, you will not be able to receive permission for the "Specified Skilled Worker" status of residence.

② Is it possible for each company to offer a job offer to a foreigner before the foreigner passes the skill test and Japanese language test?

Although it is common for an employment contract to be concluded with the accepting organization after passing the skill test and Japanese language test, it is legally prohibited to make a job offer before passing the test. not.

③ How should companies in specific industrial fields recruit foreigners who accept them with the status of residence of specific skills?

For example,
① For companies that have established a corporation overseas, conduct recruitment activities for locally trained human resources.
② Conduct recruitment activities overseas through industry organizations that have overseas human resources networks
Such will be considered.
Please also check that some fields have posted job information.
It is also possible to go through public employment agencies or private employment agencies, but regarding job placement, please contact the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, which has jurisdiction over the Employment Security Act.

④How can I confirm that the business I am trying to work for falls under the specified industry field?

You can check whether your business falls under a specific industry field by looking at the "work involved" listed in the "Summary of Field-Specific Operational Policies" below, but for details, please contact the government agency in charge of each field. .

⑤I would like to work as a specified skilled foreigner, but how should I look for a place to work?

In Japan, you can use Hello Work, and depending on the field, there are also fields that are recruiting, so please check the website of each field.
Also, when overseas, please use employment agencies to communicate with companies.

3. Residence status application related

①Where can I consult about application procedures and required documents?

The consultation desk for applications is the Regional Immigration Bureau and the Information Center.

②Can I apply by mail?

Applications by mail are not accepted.
As a general rule, the application must be made by the foreign national in person at a regional immigration office, or online.
For online applications, it is necessary to receive approval in advance.

For details, please refer to the Ministry of Justice website below.
http://www.immi-moj.go.jp/tetuduki/zairyukanri/onlineshinsei.html

③How much is the application fee?

Applications for issuance of a Certificate of Eligibility are free of charge.
For applications for permission to change status of residence or extension of period of stay, 4,000 yen (revenue stamp) is required at the time of permission (residence card issuance).

④How long will it take to get the results after applying?

The standard processing period for an application for a Certificate of Eligibility is one to three months.
The standard processing period for applications for permission to change status of residence and permission to extend period of stay is from two weeks to one month.

⑤Please tell me the requirements necessary to accept foreigners with specific skills.

Please see the operational guidelines and system explanatory materials regarding the acceptance of specific skilled foreigners published on the Ministry of Justice website.
If you have any questions, please contact your local immigration office.

⑥Please tell me the salary level that should be paid to foreigners with specific skills.

The amount of remuneration for specified skilled foreigners is required to be equal to or higher than the remuneration amount for Japanese people engaged in equivalent work.

⑦Do I need to be certified as an accepting company in order to accept specified skilled foreigners?

There is no need for the accepting company to be certified, but if the accepting company intends to accept a specified skilled foreigner, it will be examined whether the accepting company meets the prescribed standards during the examination of the foreigner's various residence applications. .
　
For more information, please refer to the "Operational Guidelines for Accepting Specified Skilled Foreigners (Chapter 5 Standards for Organizations Affiliated to Specified Skilled Workers and Chapter 6 Item 1 Standards for Specified Skilled Foreign Support Plans, etc.)" published on the Ministry of Justice website. please.

⑧How long is the period of stay granted to specific skilled foreigners?

For foreigners with specified skills No. 1, the period of stay is 1 year, June, or April, while for foreigners with specified skills No. 2, the period of stay is 3 years, 1 year, or 6 months, and they continue to engage in the same activity. If you wish to stay in Japan for this purpose, please apply for permission to extend your period of stay before the granted period of stay expires.

In addition, there is an upper limit on the period of stay for specified skilled workers (No. 1), which cannot exceed 5 years in total (there is no such upper limit for foreigners with specified skills (2)). ).

⑨Can technical intern trainees continue to work as specified skilled foreigners without returning to their home country?

It is possible.

⑩ My company does not have any Japanese employees engaged in the same work, how can I prove the requirements for equal remuneration?

If the accepting organization has wage regulations, decisions will be made based on the wage regulations.

In cases where there are no wage regulations and there is a Japanese worker who engages in the same work as a specified skilled foreign worker, the equivalence of remuneration will be determined by comparing it with that Japanese worker.

In cases where there are no wage regulations and there are no Japanese workers engaged in equivalent work, but there are Japanese workers who are engaged in work similar to work performed by specified skilled foreigners, Considering whether the difference in remuneration between the Japanese worker and the specified skilled worker is reasonably explained based on the position and level of responsibility of the Japanese worker, and whether the remuneration amount is appropriate even when comparing age and years of experience. You will have to make a decision.

If there are no wage regulations and there is no Japanese person to compare with, the amount of remuneration stated in the employment contract and the remuneration of a specified skilled foreigner with the same level of experience engaged in the same work at a nearby company in the same industry held by the authorities. I am trying to compare the amounts.

⑪Are there any points to keep in mind when entering into an employment contract with a foreigner?

Care must be taken to ensure that the amount of remuneration is equal to or higher than that of Japanese workers, that the prescribed working hours are the same as that of regular workers, and that foreigners take the necessary paid leave when they wish to return to their home country temporarily. please.

⑫Please let me know the requirements for accepting temporary employees.

Acceptance of temporary employment is permitted in two fields: agriculture and fisheries. In addition to the usual requirements that accepting organizations must meet, the accepting organization that sends the student is required to meet one of the following requirements:

① Be an individual or organization that is engaged in business related to the specific industrial field or business related thereto.

② A majority of the capital is invested by local governments or individuals or organizations listed in ① above.

③ An employee of a local government or an individual or organization listed in ① above or an officer or employee thereof is an officer.
Other local governments or individuals or organizations listed in ① above are found to be substantially involved in business execution.

④If the field of work to which the foreigner is engaged at the place of dispatch is agriculture, the organization shall be a specified organization as stipulated in Article 16-5, Paragraph 1 of the National Strategic Special Zones Act. In addition, destinations to which specified skilled foreigners are dispatched must also meet all of the following.

ⅰ Comply with the provisions of laws and regulations regarding labor, social insurance, and taxation.
ⅱ Within the past year, a worker who was engaged in the same type of work as the specified skilled foreigner is supposed to be engaged in has not left the company.
ⅲ Within the past year, no foreign nationals have gone missing due to reasons attributable to the organization.
ⅳ Does not fall under any disqualifying grounds such as not receiving any penalties due to violation of criminal laws and regulations.

⑬ Is it possible for one specified skilled foreigner to conclude employment contracts with multiple companies and work there?

Specified skilled foreigners are required to work full-time, so a single specified skilled foreigner cannot work for multiple companies.

⑭ Is there an upper limit to the number of people a company can accept like in the technical intern training system?

There is no upper limit to the number of applicants each accepting organization can accept.

However, in the field of nursing care, the field-specific operational policy stipulates that the number of foreign nationals with specified skills (1) that can be accepted at a business establishment shall be limited to the total number of full-time nursing care staff, such as Japanese, for each business establishment. I am.

In addition, regarding the construction field, the field-specific operational policy states that ``The total number of foreigners accepted under the specified skill No. 1 residence status and the number of foreigners accepted under the specified activity residence status (foreign construction workers) is The number must not exceed the total number of full-time employees of the accepting organization (excluding foreign technical intern trainees, foreign construction workers, and Category 1 specified skilled workers).

⑮If I want to entrust support to a registered support organization, how should I find one?

Organizations that have been registered as registered support organizations are announced on the Ministry of Justice website.

When looking for a subcontractor that meets your needs, please check the available languages ​​and contact information from the list of registered support organizations, and contact the registered support organization directly.

We also provide support as a registration support organization.
https://www.shigyo.co.jp/search_post/visa/tokuteiginovisa/shienkikan_t/

⑯After we start accepting specified skilled foreigners, what kind of work can we have them engage in? Are there any procedures required if I want to change my job?

In addition to work that requires skills recognized through specific skill tests, etc., Japanese nationals engaged in the work can be engaged in related work that would normally be engaged in.

In addition, if you change the work you are engaged in within the scope of your previous specified industry field, you will need to submit a notification regarding the change to your specified skill employment contract.

On the other hand, if you wish to change your work to a field different from your previous specific industry field, you will need to apply for permission to change your status of residence again. For details on the work that you can engage in, please see the operational guidelines (separate volume) stipulated for each specific industry field posted on the Ministry of Justice website below.

⑰Which specific industrial fields are scheduled to accept foreigners with “Specified Skilled Worker No. 2”?

As of October 1, 2020, there are two fields in which foreigners can be accepted as "Specified Skilled Worker No. 2": construction field and shipbuilding/marine industry field.

⑱If a specific skilled foreigner loses his or her job, do they have to return to their home country immediately? Will I receive unemployment insurance?

Even if a specified skilled foreigner loses his or her job, he or she does not have to return to his or her home country immediately; if he or she is looking for a job, he or she can stay in the country for at least the period of stay.
However, if you do not engage in any resident activity related to "Specified Skilled Worker" for more than 3 months without a valid reason, such as staying in Japan for more than 3 months without looking for a job, your status of residence may be revoked.

Generally speaking, you can receive unemployment insurance benefits in the same way as Japanese people, but for details, please contact the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare (Hello Work, etc.) in charge.

⑲I understand that the accepting company must be a member of a council set up in each field, but what kind of documents should I submit to prove that I am a member of the council?

The councils established for each field are organized by the ministries and agencies that have jurisdiction over the respective fields, so please contact each council's homepage or the ministries and agencies that have jurisdiction over the fields that organize the councils.　

⑳Can a temporary staffing company become an accepting organization?

In order for a dispatched labor company to become a host organization as a dispatch source, it is necessary to meet the standards of the host organization and the standards of the dispatch source stipulated by the Immigration Control Act, and it is engaged in business related to specific industrial fields or related business. If you do not meet the requirements such as cases, you cannot become a host organization as a dispatching agency.

㉑What is the difference between the activities that foreigners engage in in Technical Intern Training No. 2 and Specified Skilled Worker No. 1? Is it okay to have specified skill level 1 foreigners do the same work as technical intern training level 2 foreigners?

Activities of Technical Intern Training No. 2 involve engaging in work that requires skills, etc. in order to become proficient with the skills, etc. for the purpose of international contribution by transferring skills, etc. to one's home country, whereas activities of Specific Skills No. 1 are engaged in work that requires a certain level of expertise and skills in fields where there is a labor shortage.

Therefore, since there are differences in skill level and form of activity between the two, the work that specific skill level 1 foreigners and technical intern training 2 foreigners engage in will be different.

For details on activities as a Specified Skilled Worker No. 1, please see the operational guidelines (separate volume) stipulated for each specific industry field posted on the Ministry of Justice website.

㉒Are there any restrictions on the term of the employment contract?

There is no specific provision under the Immigration Control Act regarding the period of employment, but the maximum total period of stay for Category 1 Specified Skilled Foreigners is 5 years, so if you conclude an employment contract for a period exceeding this period, Please note that even if you do, you will not be permitted to stay for a period exceeding 5 years.

㉓Are there any procedures required under the Immigration Control Act to dismiss a specified skilled foreign worker?

If you wish to dismiss a specified skilled worker, please notify the Immigration Services Agency of the fact that it is difficult to accept them before dismissing them. It is necessary to submit a notification regarding the termination of the skilled employment contract.

㉔Do foreign nationals residing with the residence status of "Specified Skilled Worker" necessarily have to return to their home country when their employment contract expires?

For foreigners residing in Japan with the residence status of "Specified Skilled Worker," even if the specified skill employment contract expires, it does not mean that they must return to their home country immediately, but they will be able to obtain new specified skill employment by rehiring or changing jobs. Once the contract is signed, you will be allowed to continue staying within the period of stay.

If you wish to change jobs, you will need to apply for permission to change your status of residence.

㉕If the accepting organization that caused the missing foreign national establishes a separate company, does that mean that the missing foreign national has not occurred?

If the receiving organization that generated the missing foreign national creates a separate company to avoid not meeting the standards, it may be deemed to be essentially the same organization and the separate company may be treated as the organization that generated the missing foreign national.

㉖Can I work even if the accepting organization does not have social insurance?

Organizations that accept specified skilled workers are required to comply with laws and regulations regarding social insurance.

Therefore, if an accepting organization that is legally required to participate in social insurance does not have social insurance, it will not be able to accept specified skilled foreigners because it does not meet the standards, and therefore will not be able to work.

㉗What should I do if I am in arrears with my national pension insurance premiums, national taxes, local taxes, and national health insurance premiums (taxes) for a foreigner who wishes to work as a specified skilled worker?

First of all, please consult with the pension office, tax office, city hall, etc. that has jurisdiction over your place of residence, and promptly carry out the necessary procedures.

If you intend to pay taxes and insurance premiums, but there are unavoidable circumstances that prevent you from paying them promptly by the time you apply for residence, please consult your local immigration office before applying.

㉘Are there any requirements regarding the educational background of foreigners in their home countries regarding specific skills?

There are no educational requirements, but you must pass a Japanese language test and a skill test.
Additionally, specified skilled foreigners must be 18 years of age or older.

㉙How is the residence status of Specified Skilled Worker written on the residence card?

"Specified Skilled Worker No. 1" or "Specified Skilled Worker No. 2" will be written in the residence status column of the residence card.

㉚Is the specified industry field written on the residence card or the designation document?

It will be written on the specification sheet.

㉛If the salaries of the No. 1 Specified Skilled Foreign Workers and Technical Intern Trainees are the same, will the requirements for equal remuneration be met?

Since the skill level of a Type 1 Specified Skilled Foreigner is the same as that of a foreigner who has completed Technical Intern Training Type 2, it is expected that the salary level will be at least higher than that of Technical Intern Training Type 2.

㉜Is it possible to hire a foreigner who is undergoing technical intern training with a specific skill residence status?

Technical intern trainees carry out activities to become proficient in skills, etc. based on the technical intern training plan, and in the case of foreign nationals undergoing training who have not completed the technical intern training plan, due to the nature of their residence status of technical intern training. , changing the status of residence to Specified Skilled Worker is not permitted.

㉝When transitioning from Technical Intern Training No. 2 to Specified Skilled Worker No. 1, to what extent is the relationship required between the activities engaged in during the Technical Intern Training and the activities engaged in as a Specified Skilled Worker?

The field-specific operational guidelines for each field clearly specify the relationship between the work that specified skilled foreigners engage in and the types of occupations eligible for transition to Technical Intern Training No. 2, so please check them.

㉞What should I do if I request the training institution to issue an evaluation report as a document for transitioning to specific skills?

In addition to a written statement explaining the reasons for not being able to submit the evaluation record, as a document in place of the evaluation record, for example, a report on the implementation status of the technical intern training prepared by someone in a position to know the training status, such as the technical intern training instructor at the time, should be submitted. After submitting explanatory documents, it is possible for the Immigration Bureau to comprehensively evaluate whether you have successfully completed Technical Intern Training No. 2.

㉟I am currently residing in the country with the residence status of Technical Intern Training No. 2, but if I want to continue to transition to Specified Skilled Worker status after the completion of the training, at what timing should I apply for permission to change the residence status? Also, after completing the technical intern training, is it okay to look for a job during the technical intern training so that I can smoothly transition to specific skills?

You can apply even if you are currently in Technical Intern Training No. 2, so please apply as soon as you have the necessary documents ready.

After completing Technical Intern Training No. 2, you will not be able to work until you receive permission to change your status of residence to Specified Skilled Worker, so please prepare early.

In addition, there is no problem in looking for a job as a specified skilled foreigner on days off from training, but even if the period of stay has expired, technical intern trainees may still be able to stay in Japan to conduct job hunting. Qualifications cannot be changed.

㊱When changing from Technical Intern Training No. 2 or No. 3 to Specified Skilled Worker, it is said that the exam required for Specified Skilled Worker will be exempted, but in what cases will it be exempted?

If a foreigner successfully completes Technical Intern Training No. 2, he or she will be exempt from taking the Japanese language test, regardless of the type of job or work involved in the Technical Intern Training.

Furthermore, if there is a relationship between the job you intend to engage in and the type of job/work listed in Technical Intern Training No. 2, you will be exempted from the skill test. Successful completion of Technical Intern Training No. 2 means that the technical intern training has been successfully completed for two years and October according to the plan.

㊲When is the total period of stay for “Specified Skilled Worker No. 1” calculated? Is the period during which I am temporarily returning to my home country included in the total period?

The total period of stay is calculated from the day you receive landing permission or change permission for "Specified Skilled Worker No. 1". As long as you have the residence status of "Specified Skilled Worker No. 1", even if you have received a re-entry permit and are leaving the country, it will be included in your total period of stay.

㊳Do I have to use the reference format posted on the website for the submitted documents?

Please use the reference form to ensure a smooth review process.

㊴Is it necessary to include a foreign language in the submitted documents?

Regarding documents that need to be prepared in a language that foreigners can fully understand, there is a list of submitted documents posted on the Ministry of Justice website, and documents translated into foreign languages ​​are also posted.

㊵Is it possible to work part-time at another company?

No

4. Exam related

① When and where can I take the test to measure my skill level and Japanese language proficiency level?

Please check the Ministry of Justice website for the latest implementation status of skill exams and Japanese language exams.

② Is the proficiency test conducted in the local language of the country where the test is held?

In some fields, proficiency tests are conducted in the local language of the country in which the test is being conducted, while in others they are conducted only in Japanese, and the language to be used is specified in the operational guidelines for each field.

③ Is there a limit to the number of times I can take the exam?

There is no provision in the examination policy created and published by the Ministry of Justice that limits the number of times an examination can be taken, but please check with the ministries and agencies in charge of each field for details.

④What measures will you take if cheating is discovered in the exam?

In the event that fraud is discovered, it will not be recognized that the proper implementation of the exam has been ensured, and passing the exam will not be recognized as meeting the required skill level or Japanese language level. Measures will be taken such as revoking the status of residence for specific skilled workers.

⑤Can I prove my skill level and Japanese language proficiency level other than by taking an exam?

Whether or not it is possible to prove skill level and Japanese language proficiency level through methods other than exams is stated in the field-specific operational policy and operational guidelines for each field.
At present, "Completion of Care Worker Training Facility" in the field of nursing care is evaluated as meeting the skill level and Japanese language proficiency level of the field.

⑥Is it possible for a foreigner of the same nationality living in a country where the new Japanese Language Proficiency Evaluation Test conducted by the Japan Foundation is not currently being conducted to take the test in one of the countries that is conducting the test? (For example, if the same exam is held in Vietnam but not in Sri Lanka, is it possible for a Sri Lankan national living in Sri Lanka to take the same exam in Vietnam?)

I understand that this does not preclude nationals of countries other than the one in which the exam is being held from taking the exam in a neighboring country.

⑦For foreigners working with specific skills, are tests other than Japanese Language Proficiency Test N1 to N4 acceptable?

In the published "Policy regarding the operation of the system related to the status of residence for specified skills in the nursing care field" (Cabinet decision on February 28, 2020), the evaluation of the Japanese language proficiency level of specified skills No. 1 is as follows: In addition to the "Japan Foundation Japanese Language Basic Test" or the "Japanese Language Proficiency Test (N4 or above)," passing the "Nursing Japanese Language Evaluation Test," or being recognized as being at a level equivalent to or higher than passing these tests, is required. This does not apply to passing the Japanese Language Proficiency Test, as you pointed out.

Furthermore, in the "Operating Guidelines for the Policy on the Operation of the System Related to the Status of Residence of Specified Skilled Workers in the Nursing Care Field" (partially revised and announced on April 1, 2020), it is stated that a level equivalent to or higher than passing the above examination is required. Those who are recognized as such are those who have completed nursing care training facilities and those who have completed their period of stay (4 years) as EPA care worker candidates.

In this regard, in the "Policy regarding the operation of the system related to the status of residence of specified skills" in other specified industrial fields, the evaluation of the Japanese language proficiency level of specified skills No. 1 is based on the "Japan Foundation Japanese Language Basic Test" or " The only requirement is to pass the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (N4 or higher).

5. Registration support organization registration application related

①Where can I apply?

This can be done at the main office or branch office (excluding airport branch offices) of the Regional Immigration Bureau that has jurisdiction over the applicant's domicile (or the location of the head office or principal office if the applicant is a corporation). Masu.

②Can I apply by mail?

Applications can also be made by mail.

③Can I apply through a proxy?

Applications can also be made on your behalf.

④Please tell me the requirements to become a registered support organization.

In order to become a registered support organization, it must have not been subject to any penalties for violating criminal laws and regulations (such as having been punished under laws and regulations related to immigration or labor within the past 5 years), and must have a track record of properly accepting medium- to long-term residents. In addition to having staff members who have experience in providing lifestyle counseling for medium- to long-term residents, they must also meet the standards stipulated by immigration laws and regulations, such as ensuring an information provision system to provide support.

⑤Can the Support Manager and Support Person hold concurrent positions?

It is possible to hold concurrent positions.

⑥ Is it possible for an individual or organization that was a supervising organization under the technical intern training program to become a registered support organization?

A supervising organization under the technical intern training program can become a registered support organization if it meets the prescribed requirements.

7) Is it possible for a commercial company such as a stock company to register as a registration support organization?

Even commercial corporations such as stock companies can become registered support organizations if they meet certain requirements. 　

⑧Is it possible for non-corporate organizations such as individuals or volunteer circles to register as a registered support organization?

Even organizations without legal status can become registered support organizations if they meet certain requirements.

⑨Is it necessary to have a specific corporate form to become a registered support organization?

If the prescribed requirements are met, not only corporations but also sole proprietors can become registered support organizations.

⑩ An accepting organization (which performs support work on its own and has sufficient know-how and accumulation of support) is registered as a registered support organization, concludes a support contract with another accepting organization, and accepts other accepting organizations. Is it possible to provide support for foreigners with specific skills No. 1 who are accepted in Japan?

Even accepting organizations can become registered support organizations if they meet certain requirements. However, we cannot provide support to Category 1 specified skilled foreigners who belong to accepting organizations with which we have a close relationship.

⑪Are there any details that must be included in the support contract concluded with the accepting organization?

At a minimum, it is necessary to include the details of the support work to be contracted and the amount and breakdown of expenses required for the support work. 　

⑫Is it okay to conclude a support contract with multiple accepting organizations?

No problem.

⑬Are there any upper limits on the fees that can be collected from the accepting organization based on the support contract concluded with the accepting organization?

Although there is no upper limit under immigration laws and regulations on the fees to be collected from accepting organizations, it is necessary to clearly state the amount and details of the fee when concluding a consignment contract.

⑭Where are the institutions that have been registered as registered support institutions made public?

Information on registrants registered by registration support organizations is published as a register on the Ministry of Justice website.

⑮Does the registration support organization need to undergo renewal procedures?

Registration must be renewed once every five years.

⑯Are there any standards that must be met regarding the content of support provided by registered support organizations to foreign nationals with specific skills?

If a registered support organization is entrusted with all support for a Category 1 Specified Skilled Foreigner by an accepting organization, it must provide support in accordance with a support plan that complies with the standards stipulated by the Ministry of Justice Ordinance.

Specifically, we provide transportation to and from airports and ports where foreign nationals are entering or exiting the country, support for promoting interaction between foreign nationals and Japanese people, support for job changes when contracts are canceled for reasons not attributable to foreign nationals, and other services. Support stipulated in the Ministry of Justice ordinance, such as provision of information regarding the contents of specified skills employment contracts and support related to securing appropriate housing, must be provided compulsorily.

⑰Are there any operational audits by the Regional Immigration Bureau of registered support organizations?

If it is necessary to confirm that a registered support organization is conducting support operations appropriately, the authorities will investigate the facts and request the submission of reports and materials, so please cooperate with them. You will be asked for it.

⑱ Is it not allowed to collect any fees from foreign nationals with specified skills (No. 1)?

For foreigners with specific skills (1), mandatory support includes transportation to and from the airport where the foreigner is entering or exiting the country, support for promoting exchange between foreigners and Japanese people, and the responsibility of the foreigner should be attributed to the foreigner. In addition to providing job change support in the event of contract cancellation regardless of the reason, support stipulated in the Ministry of Justice ordinance must be provided, such as providing information regarding the contents of the specified skills employment contract and support related to securing appropriate housing. The applicant will not be allowed to bear the costs incurred in providing this support.

⑲The grounds for refusal of registration as a registered support organization are ``A person who has attempted to become a registered support organization and has caused the disappearance of foreign nationals due to reasons attributable to that person in the past year.'' What exactly do you mean?

An individual or organization that wishes to become a registered support organization has accepted technical intern trainees as a training implementer or accepted specified skilled foreigners as an accepting organization in the past year, but has not paid wages or received consultation.・If a technical intern trainee or specified skilled worker goes missing due to failure to appropriately respond to a complaint, it is difficult to expect a registered support organization to provide appropriate support, so please register. I have decided to refuse it.

6. Support relationship

①What kind of support does the accepting organization need to provide?

In addition to providing support for promoting exchanges between foreigners and Japanese people, and providing job change support when a contract is canceled for reasons not attributable to the foreigner, we also provide information on the contents of specific skill employment contracts, and assist foreigners when entering or exiting the country. This includes transportation to and from the airport and seaport, support for securing appropriate housing, etc.

②Who will bear the cost of support?

Any support that the receiving organization must provide must be borne by the receiving organization.

③Please let me know the extent to which the accepting organization must cover the costs required for support.

Securing an interpreter is necessary for the support that the receiving organization must provide, and must be borne by the receiving organization.

④Who will bear the cost of securing an interpreter?

Unless the foreign national is unable to bear the cost of returning to his/her home country after the specified skill employment contract ends, the foreign national will basically be responsible for the airfare.

⑤ When hiring a foreigner with specific skills, does the accepting organization have to pay for the round-trip airfare?

Since it is mandatory for the accepting organization to pick up and drop off the foreigner at the port or airport where the foreigner intends to enter or leave the country, the receiving organization will be responsible for the transportation costs for the pick up and drop off. You will receive it.

⑥Who will pay for transportation to and from the airport where I will enter and exit the country?

Since it is mandatory for the accepting organization to pick up and drop off the foreigner at the port or airport where the foreigner intends to enter or leave the country, the receiving organization will be responsible for the transportation costs for the pick up and drop off. You will receive it.

⑦Can the registered support organization entrust the implementation of support to a third party (including other registered support organizations)?

The Immigration Control Act stipulates that registered support organizations "must provide support services based on the conformity No. 1 Specified Skilled Worker support plan related to entrustment," so registered support organizations entrusted by accepting organizations Institutions are not permitted to entrust all of their support services to other individuals or organizations. However, for example, it is permissible to use an interpreter to assist in the implementation.

⑧For example, what kind of information should I provide in advance guidance before entering Japan?

It is illegal to conclude a contract that stipulates matters related to working conditions, such as the content of work that a foreign worker will engage in and the amount of remuneration, which is included in the specified skill employment contract, as well as the collection of security deposits and penalties for non-fulfillment of the contract. You will need to provide information such as:

For more information, please see the "Operational Guidelines for Support for Type 1 Specified Skilled Foreign Workers - Standards for Support Plan for Type 1 Specified Skilled Foreigners" published on the Ministry of Justice website.

⑨How many months before entering Japan should I provide advance guidance before entering Japan?

As we plan to confirm the implementation status of preliminary guidance in the application for the issuance of a certificate of eligibility for a specific skill foreigner (No. 1), we will confirm the implementation status of the preliminary guidance after the conclusion of the specific skill employment contract and before the application. please.

⑩ Even if the airport where a foreigner enters and departs from the country is far away, do they still need to be shuttled to the airport?

According to the Ministry of Justice ordinance, accepting organizations are required to pick up and drop off foreign nationals at the port or airport where they intend to enter or leave the country.

Therefore, it is considered necessary to inform foreigners in advance of the international airports, etc. that are available for pick-up and drop-off, and to decide which airports, etc. they will use when entering and exiting the country, so that support related to transportation does not place an excessive burden on the receiving organization. Masu.

⑪Wouldn't it be an excessive burden for accepting organizations located at local airports with few direct flights to support foreign nationals leaving the country?

Even if there are local airports with few direct flights, it is possible to return to your home country via, for example, South Korea (Incheon International Airport), which has direct flights from the local airport, and it is possible to return to your home country via a destination such as South Korea (Incheon International Airport), which has direct flights from the local airport. There is no need to provide transportation to the airport, so please understand that transportation is an important part of supporting foreigners.

⑫When leaving the country, is it enough to simply drop me off at the airport?

Regarding pick-up and drop-off at the time of departure, it is recommended to see the foreigner enter the security checkpoint and see them off.

⑬Accepting organizations may be required to act as a guarantor for debts based on rental contracts concluded by foreigners as part of their support, but private rental guarantor companies may be used. mosquito?

If a guarantor is required for a rental contract and there is no suitable guarantor for the foreigner in question, it is possible to use a rental guarantor company.

In this case, the fees paid to the rental guarantee company will be borne by the accepting organization.

⑭What kind of support can I provide for securing housing other than becoming a guarantor?

As support for securing appropriate housing for foreign nationals, we provide information on properties desired by foreign nationals and introduce them to real estate brokerage companies, as well as accompany foreign nationals as necessary to help them find housing. Please provide assistance.

⑮If the unpaid rent of a No. 1 Specified Skilled Foreigner is paid in advance, can the foreigner be billed for the cost?

Securing housing does not mean that accepting organizations, etc. are required to bear the cost of housing; instead, they provide support so that foreigners can smoothly secure housing, such as by introducing them to intermediaries for rental properties. Thing.

Therefore, there is no problem in requesting the foreign national to pay the rent that the foreign national has paid in advance.

⑯Can I provide company housing or the housing I own to a foreigner who is a Type 1 Specified Skilled Worker?

It is also possible to provide company housing, etc., owned by an organization that accepts No. 1 Specified Skilled Foreigners as a residence to the foreigners concerned.

⑰Please tell me what I should do regarding support related to opening a savings account and signing a contract for the use of a mobile phone.

In addition to guiding the necessary documents and contact points when carrying out contract procedures, we will accompany the foreigner and assist in each procedure as necessary to ensure that the contract is not hindered due to being a foreigner or lack of Japanese communication skills. Please do.

⑱What are the various administrative procedures that a foreigner with specific skills No. 1 must complete? Please give me a specific example.

These include notifications regarding accepting institutions, etc., notifications regarding place of residence, procedures regarding National Health Insurance and National Pension, and procedures regarding tax payments (paying taxes after returning to Japan).

⑲ Foreigners accepted with specific skills should have already cleared a certain level of Japanese proficiency at the time of entry, but do they still need support in learning Japanese?

For foreigners residing in Japan, learning Japanese is important in order to stay smoothly as a member of Japanese society.

Communication in Japanese is essential in order to accept foreigners as members of Japanese society and realize a cohesive society where foreigners are not excluded from society. Please provide appropriate support to enable communication.

Please note that this support does not necessarily mean that the child must attend a Japanese language educational institution or private school.

⑳We require the support manager and support person to be in a position to neutrally implement the No. 1 Specified Skilled Worker Support Plan, but what kind of person do you mean specifically? ?

Refers to a person who does not have the authority to command or command a foreigner, such as an employee of a different department than the foreigner with specified skills (1).

However, even if they are employees of different departments, those who are on the vertical line when creating an organizational chart, such as the representative director or the head of the department to which the foreigner belongs, are in a position to supervise the foreigner. Therefore, it is ineligible.

Additionally, in addition to spouses and second-degree relatives of officers of specified skill organizations, persons who have a close social relationship with officers of accepting organizations are also not eligible.

7. Bilateral arrangements

① With which country do you have bilateral agreements?

As of October 1, 2020, bilateral agreements have been established with the Philippines, Cambodia, Nepal, Myanmar, Mongolia, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Vietnam, Bangladesh, Uzbekistan, Pakistan, and Thailand.

③Do you not accept specified skilled foreigners from countries that do not create bilateral agreements?

The goal is to create an information sharing framework with the aim of eliminating malicious intermediaries that collect security deposits from foreigners attempting to come to Japan.

③Do you plan to conclude bilateral agreements with countries other than the nine countries in the future?

At present, we are not considering limiting the number of countries with which bilateral agreements will be drawn up to nine.

④What is the purpose of concluding the bilateral agreement and what is the content of the agreement?

Since there is no requirement for acceptance to be a national of a country that has created a bilateral agreement, even foreign nationals from countries that have not created a bilateral agreement can be accepted.

⑤Depending on the country of nationality of the specified skilled worker, procedures in the sending country are required in addition to applying for residence at the immigration office, but if these procedures are not completed, permission for the application for residence may not be granted. Can't take it?

Depending on the country that created the bilateral agreement, the country may have established sending procedures based on its domestic regulations and may issue documents proving that the procedures have been carried out.

For countries where bilateral agreements stipulate that Japan must confirm the above-mentioned documents when accepting specified skilled foreigners, the documents must be submitted in the various residence applications, and then We will make a comprehensive judgment on whether the requirements are met.

In addition, for countries where the bilateral agreement does not stipulate that the Japanese side confirms the above documents, there is no need to submit the documents in the application for residence, but simply whether the requirements under immigration laws and regulations are met. will be judged comprehensively.

However, even if you receive permission to apply for residence in Japan, there may be cases where you may not be able to obtain permission to leave the sending country because you have not gone through the sending procedures specified by the sending country. It is recommended that you check the relevant procedures in the sending country before proceeding.

Please note that even if you are a national of a country where sending procedures are being developed, you can apply for residence in accordance with immigration laws and regulations.
(There is no need to submit documents proving that you have completed the sending procedures when applying for residence.)

8. Notification related

①What kind of notifications and by what methods should accepting organizations and registration support organizations make?

If you become an accepting organization,

① Notification when changing, terminating, or newly concluding a specific skill employment contract;
② Notification if the No. 1 Specified Skilled Worker Support Plan is changed,
③ Notification when a support outsourcing contract is concluded, changed, or terminated;
④ Notification if acceptance becomes difficult;
⑤ Notification of fraudulent or grossly unjust acts related to immigration or labor laws;
⑥Notification regarding acceptance of specific skilled foreigners,
⑦ Notification regarding the implementation status of support;
⑧ Where there is a notification regarding the activity status of specified skilled foreigners,

Regarding notifications from ① to ⑤, whenever the reason for notification occurs,
Regarding ⑥ to ⑧, it is necessary to report once every quarter to the regional immigration office or branch office with jurisdiction by mail or in person.

If you become a registered support organization,

① Notification in case of changes to registered matters;
② Notification regarding suspension or abolition of support operations;
③ Where there is a notification regarding the implementation status of support,

Regarding notifications in ① and ②, if the reason for notification occurs, at any time,
Regarding ③, please send it by mail or bring it once every quarter.
It is necessary to report to the regional immigration bureau or branch office that has jurisdiction.

② Is it not possible to submit electronic notifications regarding specified skilled foreigners, accepting organizations, and registration support organizations?

Among the notifications related to specific skilled foreign nationals, accepting organizations, and registered support organizations, various notifications to be made to the Commissioner of the Immigration Services Agency cannot be made online until the system is fully updated, so please use mail, etc. The date when these notifications will be able to be made online will be announced in the future on the Immigration Services Agency website, etc. 　

③What measures will be taken if a specified skilled worker fails to submit various notifications? Will any measures be taken for accepting organizations and registration support organizations?

If it is found that a specified skilled worker has not fulfilled various notification obligations, he or she will be instructed to do so, but if he or she fails to notify his or her place of residence, he or she will be subject to penalties. If you do not submit notification within 90 days from the date when the reason for notification regarding your place of residence arises, your status of residence may be revoked.

If you fail to submit a notification regarding a change in information other than the place of residence on your residence card or a change in the accepting institution, you will be subject to penalties.

If the accepting organization itself fails to make the necessary notifications, it will not only fall under the grounds for disqualification (misconduct), but will also be subject to penalties.

In addition, if the registered support organization itself fails to make the necessary notifications, it will be subject to cancellation of registration, and if the registration is canceled, it will fall under the grounds for refusal of registration and will not be able to become a registered support organization for five years thereafter. It will be

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