2024.06.20

Specified Skilled Worker Visa

This article explains the key points that foreign workers holding a Specified Skilled Worker Visa should be aware of when considering a job change in Japan.

The Specified Skilled Worker Visa is a residence status established by Japan to alleviate labor shortages in specific industrial sectors. Foreign nationals holding this visa are permitted to work only in specific fields, but they can change jobs if they meet certain conditions.

What is a Specified Visa?

The Specified Skilled Worker Visa, introduced by the Japanese government in 2019, is a new residence status aimed at accepting foreign workers with skills in 12 specific industrial sectors such as caregiving, construction, agriculture, fishing, and food service. There are two types: Specified Skilled Worker No. 1 and Specified Skilled Worker No. 2, each indicating different skill levels and periods of stay.

In March 2024, a cabinet decision was made to add four new sectors (automobile transportation, railways, forestry, and the timber industry), further expanding the opportunities for foreigners to work. Particularly in the automobile transportation sector, where manpower shortages have become chronic, there is a growing expectation for foreign recruitment in the truck, taxi, and bus industries. Obtaining a Japanese driver's license is mandatory, but the salary level is significantly higher compared to other industries, making it highly anticipated by foreigners working in Japan.

Conditions for Changing Jobs

Although changing jobs with a Specified Skilled Worker Visa is possible, the following conditions must be met.

1. The new job must also be in a field where work is possible with a Specified Skilled Worker Visa: The new employer's business must belong to a sector eligible for the Specified Skilled Worker Visa.

2. The new employment contract must meet the required conditions: The employment contract after the job change must meet standards concerning wages and working conditions for foreign workers.

3. An application for change of residence status is required: When changing jobs, an application to change the residence status must be submitted to the Immigration Services Agency based on the new employment contract.

Procedure for Changing Jobs

The procedure for changing jobs with a Specified Skilled Worker Visa is as follows.

1. Securing a new job: First, find a job in a field where work is possible with a Specified Skilled Worker Visa.

2. Signing an employment contract: Once a new job is found, sign an employment contract with the new employer.

3. Submitting a change of residence status application: Submit an application for change of residence status to the Immigration Services Agency based on the new employment contract.

4. Application review: The Immigration Services Agency reviews the application, and if approved, the job change becomes possible.

Important Points

• The application process may take time: The review process for a change of residence status application can take time, so it’s important to start job searching early.

• Understand the risk of disapproval: Not all applications are approved. It's crucial to understand the risks as some applications may be disapproved during the review.

• Consider using support agencies: Consider using specialized support agencies when changing jobs. They provide support for job search and application procedures.

Conclusion

When foreign workers with a Specified Skilled Worker Visa consider changing jobs in Japan, it is crucial to understand the conditions and procedures mentioned above. By planning your job search and properly carrying out the necessary application procedures, you can achieve a smooth job transition. Make the most of this residence status to further develop your career in Japan.