Changing Jobs as a Specified Skilled Worker in Japan
Specified Skilled Workers can change employers, which is one of the key differences from technical intern training. People move for better working conditions, a location closer to friends or family, a workplace with stronger support, or an employer that can help them progress to SSW (ii). Moves within the same field, for example from one restaurant company to another under food service, are the most straightforward. Moving to a different field is also possible once you pass that field's tests.
Because your permission names your employer, you generally need to apply for a change of status of residence and receive permission before you start working for the new company. You cannot start at the new workplace while the application is pending. The new employer must meet the SSW requirements and prepare a support plan, and you must notify immigration within 14 days of leaving your previous employer. For SSW (i), time already spent counts toward the five-year total. Final decisions rest with the Immigration Services Agency of Japan.
A practical tip: do not resign until the new employer has confirmed it will prepare the application documents, since processing can take several weeks or longer and you may have no income in between. If your job ended for reasons outside your control, such as your employer closing, a temporary status for finding a new SSW job may be available in some cases. Ask the immigration office or your support organisation.
No open jobs here yet
Employers are adding jobs now. Try a wider search, check the guides below, or create a job alert from your page.
Frequently asked questions
Can I change employers as a Specified Skilled Worker?
Yes. You can move to another employer in the same field, but you generally need permission for a change of status of residence before starting the new job. The new employer must meet the requirements for accepting SSW workers.
Can I switch to a different SSW field?
Yes, after passing the skills test for the new field, and any additional Japanese test that field requires. You then apply for a change of status with an employer in that field. The Immigration Services Agency of Japan reviews each application.
Does changing jobs reset the five-year limit for SSW (i)?
No. The five-year limit for SSW (i) is a total across all employers and fields. Moving to SSW (ii), where available, is the route to a longer stay.