The Tokutei Ginou (Specified Skilled Worker) Visa allows foreign workers to take jobs in industries facing labor shortages.
It was introduced to provide a clear and legal work pathway for skilled workers who meet Japan’s employment and language requirements.
This guide explains how the visa works, who can apply, and what you need to prepare before starting the process.
What Is the Tokutei Ginou (Specified Skilled Worker) Visa
This list highlights the key terms related to the Tokutei Ginou (Specified Skilled Worker) Visa and explains each one briefly for clarity.
- Tokutei Ginou (Specified Skilled Worker) – A Japanese work visa designed for foreign workers with verified skills in designated labor-shortage industries.
- Immigration Services Agency of Japan – The government body that oversees visa approval, residence status, and compliance.
- Designated Industries – Specific sectors approved by the government where labor demand is high and foreign workers are accepted.
- Skills Assessment Exam – A required test that confirms your technical ability for the chosen job field.
- Japanese Language Requirement – A minimum language standard needed to communicate safely and perform daily work tasks.
- Employment Contract – A legally required agreement outlining wages, duties, working hours, and conditions.
- Residence Status – The legal permission that allows you to live and work in Japan under specific terms.
- Support Organization – An approved entity that assists workers with housing, daily life, and administrative guidance.
Types of Tokutei Ginou Visas
Below are the two types of Tokutei Ginou visas, each offering different work conditions and length-of-stay options.
- Tokutei Ginou No. 1 – Allows work in designated industries for a limited time, with skill and language requirements and no family accompaniment.
- Tokutei Ginou No. 2 – For advanced workers, offering longer-term stay options, higher skill standards, and family accompaniment.
Industries Covered by the Tokutei Ginou Visa
The Tokutei Ginou visa applies to specific industries facing labor shortages and is officially approved by the Japanese government.
These sectors offer structured roles for foreign workers with verified skills and experience.
- Caregiving – Support roles in elderly care facilities and home care services.
- Construction – Skilled work in building, infrastructure, and site operations.
- Food Service Industry – Jobs in restaurants, kitchens, and food preparation.
- Food and Beverage Manufacturing – Factory-based food processing and production roles.
- Industrial Manufacturing – Machine operation, assembly, and production line work.
- Agriculture – Crop cultivation, harvesting, and farm management support.
- Fishery and Aquaculture – Fishing operations and seafood farming work.
- Building Cleaning Management – Maintenance and cleaning of commercial and public facilities.
Who Can Apply
The Tokutei Ginou visa is open to foreign workers who meet specific skill, experience, and language requirements.
- Foreign Skilled Workers – Individuals with practical experience or training in an approved Tokutei Ginou industry.
- Former Technical Intern Trainees – Workers who completed the Technical Intern Training Program and meet transition requirements.
- Skills Assessment Exam Passers – Applicants who pass government-approved tests proving job-specific skills.
- Japanese Language Exam Passers – Applicants who meet the minimum language level needed for daily work communication.
- Overseas and In-Japan Applicants – Foreign nationals applying either from abroad or while already residing in Japan.
Skill and Language Requirements
To qualify for the visa, you must prove your job skills and basic Japanese ability through approved exams.
- Skills Assessment Exam – Confirms your practical ability in the specific industry you are applying for.
- Japanese Language Proficiency – Demonstrates your ability to understand instructions and communicate at work.
- Accepted Language Tests – Usually includes JLPT or the Japan Foundation Test for Basic Japanese.
- Industry-Specific Standards – Some sectors require additional technical or safety knowledge.
How the Application Process Works
The Tokutei Ginou application process follows a clear step-by-step system that confirms your skills, employment, and legal eligibility to work in Japan.
- Secure an Eligible Employer – Find a company approved to hire Tokutei Ginou workers.
- Pass Required Exams – Complete the skills and Japanese language tests for your industry.
- Prepare Application Documents – Gather contracts, certificates, and identification papers.
- Submit a visa application – Apply through Japanese immigration or a Japanese embassy.
- Immigration Review and Approval – Wait for screening, approval, and issuance of status.
Length of Stay and Renewal Rules
The Tokutei Ginou visa has clear limits on the duration of stay and renewal, depending on the visa type you hold.
- Tokutei Ginou No. 1 Stay Period – Granted in short terms, with renewals allowed up to a fixed maximum total stay.
- Tokutei Ginou No. 1 Renewal Limit – Renewals are possible, but the total stay cannot exceed the set cap.
- Tokutei Ginou No. 2 Stay Period – Allows longer and renewable stays without a strict overall time limit.
- Renewal Requirements – Continued employment, valid contracts, and compliance with immigration rules are required.
Salary, Work Conditions, and Worker Protections
The Tokutei Ginou visa includes specific rules to protect workers and ensure fair employment conditions comparable to those of Japanese employees.
- Equal Pay Requirement – You must receive wages equal to or higher than those of Japanese workers in the same role.
- Written Employment Contract – Your contract must clearly state salary, duties, hours, and benefits.
- Working Hours and Overtime Rules – Standard labor laws on hours, rest days, and overtime apply.
- Labor Law Protection – Japanese labor standards and workplace safety regulations cover you.
Employer and Support Organization Responsibilities
Employers and registered support organizations have legal responsibilities to help Tokutei Ginou workers live and work safely in Japan.
- Employment Management – Ensure proper contracts, fair wages, and lawful working conditions.
- Housing Support – Assist with securing accommodation and setting up basic utilities.
- Daily Life Assistance – Provide guidance on transportation, banking, healthcare, and local rules.
- Language and Orientation Support – Offer basic Japanese support and workplace orientation.
- Compliance Monitoring – Report status changes and ensure ongoing compliance with immigration rules.
Costs, Fees, and Financial Preparation
Applying for the Tokutei Ginou visa involves several costs, so plan for them in advance to avoid delays or financial strain.
- Skills and Language Exam Fees – Costs for required technical and Japanese language tests.
- Visa Application Fees – Government fees for visa issuance or status changes.
- Document Preparation Costs – Expenses for translations, certifications, and copies.
- Relocation and Setup Expenses – Initial housing deposits, transportation, and daily necessities.
- Emergency and Living Budget – Savings to cover basic living costs during the first months.
Advantages and Limitations
The Tokutei Ginou visa has clear advantages and defined limitations that you should review carefully before applying.
Advantages
- Legal Work Status – Allows you to work legally in approved industries in Japan.
- Access to In-Demand Jobs – Opens opportunities in sectors facing labor shortages.
- Equal Treatment Protection – Requires fair wages and working conditions equal to those of Japanese workers.
Limitations
- Industry Restrictions – Employment is limited to government-approved sectors only.
- Family Limitations – Tokutei Ginou No. 1 does not allow family members to accompany.
- Exam and Renewal Requirements – Skills, language tests, and renewals are required to maintain status.
Common Misunderstandings
There are common misunderstandings about the Tokutei Ginou visa that can lead to incorrect expectations if not clarified early.
- Not a Student Visa – This visa is strictly for employment, not education or training.
- Not Permanent Residence – It does not automatically grant permanent residency in Japan.
- Not Automatic Family Sponsorship – Family members are not allowed under Tokutei Ginou No. 1.
- Not a Guaranteed Long-Term Path – Staying long term depends on visa type, renewals, and compliance.
To Sum Up
The Tokutei Ginou (Specified Skilled Worker) Visa provides a clear legal pathway for foreign workers to fill important roles in Japan’s labor-shortage industries.
Understanding the requirements, limits, and responsibilities helps you decide if this visa fits your work goals.
Review the official guidelines carefully and start preparing your qualifications if you plan to apply.
