Japan
1 programme ·Processing: 4–6 months
SSW (Specified Skilled Worker) visa. Sectors: Food Service, Food Manufacturing, Accommodation, Airport Ground Handling, Transport. JLPT N4 Japanese required. Total: USD 5,000.
Programmes (1)
Work in Japan across food service, manufacturing, accommodation, airport handling, and transport sectors. Requires JLPT N4 Japanese proficiency. SSW-2 offers a strong Permanent Residency pathway.
About working in Japan
Overview
Japan's Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) programme offers legal, regulated employment across multiple in-demand sectors: Food Service, Food Manufacturing, Accommodation (Hotel / Housekeeping), Airport Ground Handling, and Transport (Taxi / Truck Driver). The SSW programme has two categories — SSW-1 (up to 5 years, renewable) and SSW-2 (indefinite stay, family allowed). SkillBridge Global supports candidates through skills assessment, Japanese language preparation, employer matching, and the full visa application process. All SSW workers receive mandatory social insurance coverage under Japanese law.
Why work in Japan?
SSW-1 allows up to 5 years of legal work in Japan with full social insurance (health, pension, workers' compensation) and salary equal to Japanese workers in the same role. SSW-2 — which you can upgrade to from SSW-1 — removes the limit on period of stay entirely and allows your spouse and children to accompany you to Japan, creating a strong pathway to long-term settlement. Japan has one of the world's lowest crime rates, world-class healthcare, excellent public infrastructure, and a uniquely rich cultural experience.
Salaries & earnings
Salary is determined by the Japanese employer in strict accordance with Japanese labour law. SSW workers are legally entitled to the same wages as Japanese workers performing the same role — no differential pay based on nationality is permitted. All SSW workers receive social insurance: health insurance, pension, employment insurance, and workers' compensation. Exact salary varies by sector, prefecture, and employer.
Cost of living
Cost of living varies by region. Major cities like Tokyo are expensive; smaller prefectures and rural areas are considerably more affordable. Employer-provided housing is commonly offered in many SSW placements, particularly in food manufacturing and accommodation sectors. All SSW workers are covered by Japan's National Health Insurance system through their mandatory social insurance registration.
Culture & lifestyle
Japanese work culture emphasises precision, punctuality, team harmony, and respect for hierarchy and process. JLPT N4 Japanese is mandatory and will also help greatly with daily life — learning Japanese is strongly encouraged. Workers are expected to follow company rules carefully and take initiative in self-improvement. Japan is very safe and welcoming to international workers who show respect for local customs and genuine effort to integrate.
Requirements
JLPT N4 Japanese language proficiency (MANDATORY for all SSW applications — no exceptions). Field-specific skills test as required by Japanese immigration authorities for the nominated sector (mandatory). Age: generally 18 years and above. No educational barrier — vocational skill and experience is what matters. Must meet Japanese medical fitness requirements. Must meet Japanese police clearance requirements.