The SSW visa (Specified Skilled Worker status of residence) is Japan's dedicated work visa for foreign nationals in 16 high-demand industries from nursing care and construction to hospitality and food service. For Indian applicants, it represents one of the most direct pathways to working legally in Japan with competitive salaries ranging from ¥180,000 to ¥250,000 per month (approximately ₹1 to ₹1.4 lakh).
But the application process involves multiple documents from multiple sources your employer in Japan, Indian government offices, hospitals, and exam bodies. Getting organised early is the key to a smooth approval. Let's walk through everything you need.
Official SSW Visa Resource — Japan Immigration Services Agency Main portal: https://www.ssw.go.jp/en/ Required documents: https://www.ssw.go.jp/en/about/apply/ |
The Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) program was introduced by Japan in 2019 to address its growing labor shortage. There are two types:
✓ SSW Type 1 (SSW-i): Up to 5 years total stay, no family members permitted, requires passing a Japanese language test (JLPT N4, JFT-Basic, or NAT-TEST Level 4) plus a sector-specific skills test.
✓ SSW Type 2 (SSW-ii): Available in select industries, renewable with no fixed cap, family members allowed, and offers a pathway to permanent residency in Japan.
India signed a Memorandum of Cooperation with Japan for the SSW program in 2021, making Indian nationals eligible to apply directly. To apply, you need to clear the language test, pass the skills test for your industry, and submit the complete set of documents listed below.
If you want to understand the complete process, read our detailed guide on the SSW Japan visa: https://www.teamlanguages.com/blogs/ssw-japan-visa
The documents fall into five main categories. You will need all of them — there are no optional items.
✓ Valid passport — must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay. Carry all old passports too if your visa history is in them.
✓ Passport-size photographs — recent, white background, as per Japan embassy specifications (4cm × 3cm).
✓ Residence card (if already in Japan on another visa status).
✓ Birth certificate — official copy with English translation if required.
This is one of the two most critical documents for SSW-i applicants. You must prove Japanese language proficiency through one of the following:
✓ JLPT N4 certificate or above — issued by Japan Foundation / JEES. N4 is the minimum; N3, N2, or N1 are also accepted.
✓ JFT-Basic (A2 level or above) — Japan Foundation Test for Basic Japanese, conducted in India. Equivalent to JLPT N4 for SSW purposes.
✓ NAT-TEST Level 4 or above — an alternative to JLPT, also accepted for SSW applications.
| TLS Tip: JLPT N4 is the most widely recognised certificate among Japanese employers and also strengthens your chances of getting a better job offer. TLS – The Japanese Language School offers dedicated JLPT N4 preparation courses in Delhi with structured batches and mock tests. |
| Important: Some sectors — such as nursing care — require passing a sector-specific Japanese language test in addition to JLPT/JFT. Check your industry's requirements carefully on the official SSW website. |
✓ Sector-specific skills test certificate — you must pass the skills evaluation test for your chosen SSW industry (e.g., nursing care, construction, food service, hospitality, automobile maintenance, etc.).
✓ Skills tests are conducted in India by NSDC and sector bodies — check the latest schedule at ssw.go.jp/en/about/sswv/exam/
✓ Exception: Former Technical Intern Training (TITP) workers who completed their training in the same sector are exempt from the skills test.
Before applying for jobs in Japan, make sure you understand the SSW visa requirements in detail: https://www.teamlanguages.com/blogs/ssw-visa-requirements
✓ Employment contract — signed agreement with your Japanese employer, specifying salary, working hours, duties, and location.
✓ Certificate of Eligibility (COE) — issued by the Japan Immigration Services Agency upon your employer's application. This is the most important employer-side document and can take 1–3 months to receive.
✓ Support plan from registered support organisation (RSO) — SSW-i workers must receive support from a registered organisation.
✓ Application form — filled jointly by you and your employer. Download from: ssw.go.jp/en/about/apply/
| What is the Certificate of Eligibility (COE)? The COE is issued by Japan's Regional Immigration Bureau to your employer BEFORE you apply for your visa at the Japanese embassy in India. Your employer submits the COE application on your behalf. Once received, you submit it along with your other documents at the Japanese embassy in New Delhi. Without the COE, your visa application cannot proceed. |
As per the official SSW required documents list at ssw.go.jp/en/about/apply/, you must also provide:
✓ Taxation Certificate and Certificate of Tax Payment — obtained from your local municipal office or income tax department in India.
✓ Withholding Tax Slip — from your current or previous employer in India.
✓ National Health Insurance Card copy (if applicable).
✓ National Health Insurance Payment Certificate.
If you want to work in Japan, read our complete guide on the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) visa: https://www.teamlanguages.com/blogs/specified-skilled-worker
✓ Medical examination report — conducted at a government-authorised hospital. The exam typically covers tuberculosis, HIV, hepatitis B/C, syphilis, and a general health check.
✓ Ensure the hospital is listed as an approved examination centre — your employer or recruiting agency can confirm this.
✓ Medical certificates are usually valid for 3 months, so time this carefully relative to your visa submission date.
| Document | Where to Get It | Time Needed |
| Valid passport | Passport Seva Kendra, India | 2–4 weeks (if new) |
| JLPT N4 / JFT-Basic certificate | Japan Foundation India after exam | 2–3 months |
| Skills test certificate | NSDC / sector body in India | 1–2 months |
| Certificate of Eligibility (COE) | Japanese employer submits to Immigration Bureau | 1–3 months |
| Employment contract | Your Japanese employer | Upon job offer |
| Medical examination report | Authorised hospital in India | 1–2 weeks |
| Tax certificate / withholding slip | IT Department / employer in India | 1–2 weeks |
| Application form | Download: ssw.go.jp/en/about/apply/ | Same day |
1. Step 1 — Clear your language test — Appear for JLPT N4, JFT-Basic, or NAT-TEST Level 4 in India.
2. Step 2 — Clear your sector skills test — Register and pass the skills evaluation test for your chosen industry through NSDC.
3. Step 3 — Get a job offer from a Japan employer — Apply through NSDC-approved recruitment agencies or Japan job fairs held in India.
4. Step 4 — Employer applies for COE — Your Japanese employer submits the Certificate of Eligibility application. This takes 1–3 months.
5. Step 5 — Collect all personal documents — Passport, photos, medical report, tax certificates, and completed application form.
6. Step 6 — Submit at the Japanese Embassy, New Delhi — Visa processing typically takes 5–10 working days after submission.
7. Step 7 — Travel to Japan and register — After arrival, complete residence card registration at your local municipal office within 14 days.
If you are planning to work in Japan, check the complete guide on the SSW visa Japan age limit: https://www.teamlanguages.com/blogs/ssw-visa-japan-age-limit
Mistake 1: Expired or poorly-timed JLPT certificate JLPT certificates do not have an official expiry date, but some employers may question very old certificates. Always carry your original certificate and keep a certified copy ready. |
Mistake 2: Medical report done too early Medical examination reports are typically valid for only 3 months. If you get your medical done too early and COE processing takes longer, you may need to redo the examination. Plan the timing carefully. |
Mistake 3: Employer not registered as an SSW employer Not every Japanese company can hire SSW workers. Your employer must be registered and compliant with SSW regulations. Verify this before accepting a job offer — an unregistered employer cannot file the COE application. |
Mistake 4: Mismatch between skills test sector and job offer Your skills test certificate must match the specific industry in your employment contract. If your skills test is for food service but your job offer is in hospitality, your application will be rejected. Sector categories are strictly defined. |
Mistake 5: Incomplete or mistranslated documents All documents in Hindi or regional languages must be accompanied by a certified English translation. Missing translations are one of the most common reasons for application delays. |
Q1. What is the minimum Japanese language level required for SSW visa?
You need to pass JLPT N4, JFT-Basic at A2 level, or NAT-TEST Level 4 as a minimum. Some sectors like nursing care also require a separate sector-specific Japanese language test. TLS offers structured preparation for all these exams from beginner level.
Q2. How long does the SSW visa process take for Indians?
The total timeline from starting Japanese language preparation to arriving in Japan is typically 6–12 months. Language exam preparation takes 3–4 months, skills test and job placement takes 1–2 months, and COE processing takes another 1–3 months.
Q3. What is the Certificate of Eligibility (COE) and who applies for it?
The COE is issued by Japan's Immigration Services Agency confirming you are eligible to reside in Japan in SSW status. Your Japanese employer — not you — submits the COE application to the Regional Immigration Bureau in Japan. Once issued, you submit it at the Japanese embassy in India.
Q4. Can I apply for SSW visa without a job offer in Japan?
No. The SSW visa requires a valid employment contract with a registered Japanese employer. However, you can and should pass your language and skills tests before securing a job — having your certificates ready makes you much more attractive to Japanese employers.
Q5. Is JLPT N4 enough or should I aim for N3?
JLPT N4 is the minimum required, but N3 gives you a significant advantage. Employers prefer N3-certified workers for client-facing roles, and it directly results in better salary offers. TLS recommends preparing for N3 — our courses take students from beginner to N3 level in approximately 8–10 months.
Q6. Where can I find the official SSW document download links?
All official SSW application forms and document requirements are available at the Immigration Services Agency of Japan's official SSW portal: www.ssw.go.jp/en/about/apply/ — You can also contact the Immigration Information Center at 0570-013904 for queries in English.
Q7. Does TLS help with SSW visa preparation beyond just the language exam?
Yes. At TLS – The Japanese Language School, we offer JLPT N4, JFT-Basic, and NAT-TEST preparation courses specifically designed for SSW visa aspirants. Our faculty includes native Japanese speakers, and we provide structured study plans, mock tests, and guidance on the overall SSW application process.
If you want to know the SSW visa age limit and salary in Japan for Indian workers, read the complete guide here:
https://www.teamlanguages.com/blogs/ssw-visa-age-limit-salary-japan-indian-workers
The SSW visa is a life-changing opportunity for Indian professionals who want to work in Japan legally, earn competitive salaries, and build a long-term career in one of the world's most advanced economies. The documents process may seem overwhelming at first glance, but with proper planning — and the right JLPT preparation — it is very manageable.
The most important step you can take right now is to start your Japanese language preparation. Everything else — skills test, job offer, COE — follows naturally once you have your JLPT N4 certificate in hand. Most students at TLS complete N4 preparation in 3–4 months with our structured curriculum.
For the most current and official information on SSW visa documents and requirements, always refer to the official SSW portal at www.ssw.go.jp/en/
If you want to work in Japan, read our step-by-step guide on how to apply for a SSW visa in Japan from India:
https://www.teamlanguages.com/blogs/how-to-apply-for-a-ssw-visa-in-japan-from-india
Start Your SSW Journey with TLS TLS – The Japanese Language School is Delhi's leading institute for JLPT, JFT-Basic, and NAT-TEST preparation — the language certifications you need for the SSW visa. Our expert faculty, structured batches, and SSW-focused curriculum give you the fastest route to clearing N4 and landing your job in Japan. Visit Us: 2/81-82, 2nd Floor, Lalita Park, Gali No - 2, Laxmi Nagar, New Delhi - 110092 Call Us: 91 8700956038 Email Us: tls@teamlanguages.com |
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