Visa Overview

SSW Visa from Sri Lanka – A Gateway to Skilled Employment in Japan

The Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) Visa is a promising pathway for Sri Lankans seeking employment opportunities in Japan's labor-intensive industries. Designed to address Japan's workforce shortages, the SSW Visa allows foreign nationals with specific skills to work in 12 designated sectors such as construction, caregiving, agriculture, manufacturing, hospitality, and more.

What is the SSW Visa?

The SSW Visa is divided into two categories:

• SSW1: Allows workers to stay and work in Japan for up to 5 years in designated sectors. It requires passing a skills test and a basic Japanese language test.
• SSW2: Meant for experienced workers in certain fields, offering the possibility of long-term residence and family accompaniment. However, SSW2 is currently limited to a few sectors like construction and shipbuilding.

Eligibility and Requirements

To qualify for the SSW Visa, applicants from Sri Lanka must meet the following requirements:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Pass the designated Skills Proficiency Test for the chosen sector
• Pass a basic Japanese language test (JFT-Basic or JLPT N4 or higher)
• Have a valid job offer from a Japanese employer in one of the approved sectors
• Obtain a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) through the employer

Those who have completed Japan's Technical Intern Training Program (TITP) may be exempted from some of these tests, depending on their field and experience.

Required Documents

Applicants typically need to submit:

• Valid passport
• Visa application form and photo
• Skills and language test certificates
• Job offer or employment contract
• Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
• Educational and work experience certificates (if applicable)

Benefits of the SSW Visa

The SSW Visa opens the door to numerous benefits, especially for young and semi-skilled Sri Lankans:

• Access to stable employment in Japan's high-demand industries
• Competitive salaries and legal work status
• Improved career skills and training in Japan's efficient work environment
• Possibility to transfer into SSW2 and extend stay long-term in select sectors

Challenges and Preparation

While the SSW Visa provides a strong opportunity, applicants must prepare for:

• Strict qualification exams and language requirements
• Cultural and workplace differences in Japan
• High living costs in certain cities

"We guide Sri Lankan applicants step-by-step – from language training and skills test registration, to documentation, job matching, and post-arrival support," says our visa consultant. "Our goal is to ensure every candidate is fully prepared for the life-changing experience of working in Japan."

Comprehensive Support for Your SSW Journey

We are committed to helping Sri Lankan job seekers successfully obtain the SSW Visa and build rewarding careers in Japan. Our services include:

• Job placement in Japan's SSW-approved industries
• Training for language and skills tests
• Document preparation and visa application support
• Pre-departure orientation and post-arrival assistance

With the right guidance and preparation, the SSW Visa can be your gateway to a brighter future in Japan. Start your journey with us today — and take the first step toward meaningful, skilled employment abroad.