SSW Visa Japan

Japan, one of the world’s most developed nations, is actively opening its doors to foreign workers through the SSW Visa (Specified Skilled Worker Visa) program. For citizens of Nepal, this visa provides a golden opportunity to live and work in Japan legally, especially in industries facing labor shortages.

This article explains everything you need to know about the SSW Visa Japan from Nepal, including eligibility, application process, and tips for success.

ssw visa japan

What is the SSW Visa Japan?

The Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) visa is a Japanese work visa introduced in 2019 to attract foreign workers with specific skill sets. It helps industries in Japan that are struggling with labor shortages.

There are two types of SSW visas:

  • SSW Type 1

    • For mid-level skilled workers

    • Valid for up to 5 years

    • Cannot bring family members

    • Covers 12 industries

  • SSW Type 2

    • For highly skilled professionals

    • Can renew indefinitely

    • Can bring family members

    • Currently available in construction and shipbuilding sectors only

12 Sectors Eligible Under SSW Type 1

Nepali workers can apply for jobs in the following industries under SSW Type 1:

  1. Nursing care (caregiver)

  2. Agriculture

  3. Construction

  4. Food and beverage manufacturing

  5. Hotel and hospitality

  6. Building cleaning

  7. Fisheries

  8. Shipbuilding and marine industries

  9. Aviation

  10. Automobile maintenance

  11. Electronics and electrical

  12. Industrial machinery

Requirements for Nepali Citizens

🇳🇵 Eligibility Criteria for Nepali Citizens

  1. Age Requirement: Applicants must be at least 18 years old.

  2. Health Status: Must be in good health. ssw.go.jp+1Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan+1

  3. Skill and Language Proficiency:

How to Apply for an SSW Visa from Nepal to Japan

To apply for the SSW visa Japan from Nepal, you must:

✅ 1. Pass a Skill Test

Each industry has its own practical exam. These are often conducted in Japanese or with translation support.

✅ 2. Pass a Japanese Language Test

You need to pass:

  • JLPT N4 (Japanese Language Proficiency Test), or

  • JFT-Basic (Japan Foundation Test for Basic Japanese)

✅ 3. Get a Job Offer from Japan

You must find an employer in Japan who will sponsor your SSW visa and apply for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) on your behalf.

✅ 4. Apply Through Government Channels in Nepal

Nepal has strict overseas employment regulations. You must:

  • Use an approved manpower agency

  • Register with the Department of Foreign Employment (DOFE)

  • Obtain a Labour Approval (Pre-approval) before flying

  1. Learn Japanese
    Enroll in a Japanese language course (NAT/JLPT/JFT-Basic).

  2. Pass Skill & Language Tests
    Take your industry’s skill test and pass the required language test.

  3. Find a Job
    Apply through:

    • Licensed manpower agencies in Nepal

    • Japanese government job-matching platforms (e.g., Hello Work)

  4. Employer Applies for COE in Japan
    Your employer submits documents to the Immigration Bureau of Japan.

  5. Visa Application
    After you receive the COE, apply for your visa at the Embassy of Japan in Kathmandu.

  6. Final Approval from DOFE
    Submit the COE, job contract, insurance, and other required documents to DOFE.

  7. Fly to Japan
    Once everything is approved, you’re ready to work legally in Japan under the SSW visa!

Benefits of the SSW Visa for Nepali Workers

  • 🇯🇵 Legal work in Japan with full rights

  • 💰 Higher salaries compared to Nepal or Gulf countries

  • ✈️ Work experience in an advanced economy

  • 📈 Career growth & skill development

  • 🔁 Pathway to long-term stay or permanent residency (via SSW Type 2)

Useful Resources

Tips to Improve Your Chances

Want to stand out and get hired faster? Follow these tips:

  1. Learn Japanese – The better your Japanese, the more options you’ll have.

  2. Practice your skills – Take extra training or certifications if you can.

  3. Prepare for the interview – Show that you are serious about working in Japan.

  4. Research the culture – Employers love when you respect and understand Japanese customs.

  5. Stay updated – Visa rules can change. Always check for new information.

The SSW Visa Japan is a great opportunity for skilled workers who want to build a career in one of the most advanced and exciting countries in the world. Whether you want to work in nursing, farming, factories, or hotels, there’s a place for you in Japan.

With a little effort, you can start a new life in Japan, earn good money, and gain global experience. Just take the first step and start preparing today.

Scroll to Top