Transitioning from Specified Skilled Worker Type 1 to Type 2 (特定技能1号→2号)
The Specified Skilled Worker (特定技能) visa system was introduced in 2019 to address Japan's labor shortages. While Type 1 has a 5-year limit and does not allow family members, Type 2 offers a path to long-term residence with significant benefits. This guide explains everything you need to know about making the transition.
SSW Type 2 allows unlimited visa renewals, family sponsorship, and a potential path to permanent residence. As of 2023, 11 sectors are eligible (expanded from the original 2). You generally need to pass a sector-specific Type 2 skills evaluation exam. There is no strict minimum time on Type 1, but practical experience is typically needed to pass the advanced exam.
This is not legal advice. Please consult a qualified immigration lawyer or 行政書士 (administrative scrivener) for guidance specific to your situation.
Type 1 vs. Type 2: Key Differences
| Feature | Type 1 (1号) | Type 2 (2号) |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum stay | 5 years total | Unlimited renewals (typically 1 or 3 years per period) |
| Family members | Not permitted | Spouse and children can join (家族滞在) |
| Support organization required | Yes (登録支援機関) | No |
| Permanent residence path | Time generally does not count toward PR | Time generally counts toward PR requirements |
| Skill level | Certain level of skill | Proficient/expert level |
| Eligible sectors (2023~) | 16 sectors | 11 sectors |
Eligible Sectors for Type 2 (Updated 2023)
In June 2023, the Japanese government significantly expanded Type 2 eligibility from just 2 sectors to 11 sectors:
| # | Sector | Japanese Name | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Construction | 建設 | Original sector; exam established |
| 2 | Shipbuilding and marine | 造船・舶用工業 | Original sector; exam established |
| 3 | Manufacturing (3 sub-fields) | 素形材・産業機械・電気電子情報関連製造業 | Expanded 2023 |
| 4 | Building cleaning | ビルクリーニング | Expanded 2023 |
| 5 | Automotive maintenance | 自動車整備 | Expanded 2023 |
| 6 | Aviation | 航空 | Expanded 2023 |
| 7 | Accommodation | 宿泊 | Expanded 2023 |
| 8 | Agriculture | 農業 | Expanded 2023 |
| 9 | Fisheries | 漁業 | Expanded 2023 |
| 10 | Food and beverage manufacturing | 飲食料品製造業 | Expanded 2023 |
| 11 | Food service | 外食業 | Expanded 2023 |
Nursing care is notably not included in Type 2 because there is already a separate "Nursing Care" (介護) visa category for experienced care workers. Those in the nursing care sector on Type 1 may transition to the dedicated Nursing Care visa instead.
Requirements for the Transition
General Requirements
- Pass the Type 2 skills evaluation exam for your specific sector
- Have a valid employment contract with a compliant employer in the same sector
- Meet the salary requirements — pay should be equal to or greater than Japanese workers in the same position
- No immigration violations or criminal record
- Employer meets the standards for accepting specified skilled workers
Sector-Specific Exam Information
Each sector has its own Type 2 evaluation exam. These exams assess whether the worker has reached a proficient or expert level of skill:
| Sector | Exam Administrator | Exam Format |
|---|---|---|
| Construction | JAC (Japan Association for Construction Human Resources) | Written + practical; supervisory-level skills |
| Shipbuilding | ClassNK (Nippon Kaiji Kyokai) | Written + practical |
| Manufacturing | Sector-specific associations | Varies; typically written + practical |
| Food service | Japan Food Service Association | Written + practical; management-level |
| Other newly expanded sectors | Being established (as of 2023-2024) | Check Immigration Services Agency for latest details |
Application Process: Step by Step
- Confirm your sector is eligible — Verify that your field is among the 11 Type 2-eligible sectors.
- Prepare for and pass the Type 2 exam — Register through the sector's designated exam body. Study materials may be available in multiple languages.
- Secure or confirm your employment — You need a valid employment contract with an employer approved for the specified skilled worker program.
- Gather required documents — Exam pass certificate, employment contract, company documents, your passport and Residence Card.
- Submit the Change of Status application — File 在留資格変更許可申請 at your regional Immigration Services Bureau.
- Wait for processing — Typically 2 weeks to 2 months.
- Receive new Residence Card — Pick up your updated card showing SSW Type 2 status.
Bringing Your Family to Japan
One of the most significant benefits of Type 2 is the ability to sponsor your family:
- Eligible family: Spouse and children (not parents or siblings)
- Visa type: Dependent visa (家族滞在)
- Work rights: Dependents may apply for permission to work part-time (up to 28 hours/week)
- Timing: You can apply for their visas after your Type 2 status is granted
- Process: Apply for Certificate of Eligibility (在留資格認定証明書) for each family member at immigration
Path Toward Permanent Residence
While SSW Type 2 does not automatically lead to permanent residence, it puts you on a stronger footing:
- Time on Type 2 generally counts toward the residence requirement (typically 10 years, with some fast-track options)
- Stable income on Type 2 helps meet the financial requirements for PR
- Good tax and pension payment history strengthens your application
- Some fast-track options may apply if your employer supports the Highly Skilled Professional points system
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a minimum time on Type 1 before I can apply for Type 2?
There is no strict minimum period. However, you need to pass the Type 2 skills evaluation exam, which assesses advanced/supervisory-level skills. In practice, most applicants have several years of experience before they are ready for this exam.
Can I change employers when switching to Type 2?
Yes, you can change employers as long as the new employer is in the same eligible sector and meets the standards for accepting specified skilled workers.
What happens if I do not pass the Type 2 exam before my Type 1 expires?
Type 1 has a maximum total duration of 5 years. If you cannot transition to Type 2 or another visa status before this period ends, you would generally need to leave Japan. Planning ahead and taking the exam early is strongly recommended.
Do I still need a support organization on Type 2?
No. Unlike Type 1, Type 2 holders do not need a registered support organization (登録支援機関). You are considered to have sufficient skill and experience to live independently in Japan.
※ The information on this site is for reference only. Please confirm details at your local government office.
※ This is not legal advice. Please consult a qualified immigration lawyer or 行政書士 (administrative scrivener) for guidance specific to your situation.
