From Student Visa to Work in Japan: Your SSW Visa Application Guide

Are you currently studying at a university, vocational school, or language school in Japan? How is life in Japan treating you?

Many of you might be thinking, “I want to work in Japan after graduation!”

One way to make that dream come true is by obtaining an SSW Visa (Specified Skilled Worker Visa). With this visa, you can work as a full-time employee in Japan.

This guide explains in simple English how to change your Student Visa to an SSW Visa. We will cover all the important points: requirements, procedures, exams, and things to watch out for.

We’ll also show you job opportunities available for those with an SSW Visa. Be sure to read until the end!

 

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1. What is an SSW Visa?

The Specified Skilled Worker Visa (SSW Visa) is a residence status that allows you to work in designated industries in Japan.

With this visa, you can work as a full-time employee and have greater opportunities to live in Japan for a long time.

As of July 2025, there are 16 eligible industries:

・Nursing Care
・Building Cleaning
・Food and Beverage Manufacturing
・Food Service Industry
・Construction
・Shipbuilding / Marine Industry
・Automobile Maintenance
・Aviation
・Hospitality (Hotels)
・Agriculture
・Fisheries
・Manufacturing of Industrial Products (formerly: Materials, Industrial Machinery, Electronics & Information)
・Automobile Transportation
・Railway
・Forestry
・Lumber Industry

For more detailed information, check the link below:
▶ Complete Guide: What is the SSW Visa? Eligible Fields, Types, and Differences from Other Visas

2. Conditions for Changing from a Student Visa to an SSW Visa

To change from a Student Visa to an SSW Visa, you must meet all of the following conditions:

① Pass the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) Skills Evaluation Exam
This exam checks your skills in the industry where you want to work.

② Pass a Japanese Language Test
You need a Japanese proficiency level equivalent to N4 or higher.

③ Receive a Job Offer from a Japanese Company
Without a job offer, you cannot change your visa status.

If you are looking for SSW Visa jobs, check YOLO JAPAN:
▶ View Jobs for SSW Visa Holders

3. Required Exams (Skills & Japanese Language)

To change to an SSW Visa, you need to pass two types of exams:

■ ① Skills Test

This test checks whether you have the skills required for the job. The content varies by industry.
▶ Click here for Skills Test Information (Official SSW Support Site)

■ ② Japanese Language Test

You need at least an N4 level. You can pass any one of the following three tests:

① JFT-Basic (Japan Foundation Test for Basic Japanese)
・Passing Score: 200 points or higher
・Test Schedule: Available year-round
・Locations: Japan and overseas
▶ Click here for JFT Test Information

② JLPT (Japanese Language Proficiency Test)
・Levels: N5 to N1 (SSW Visa requires N4 or higher)
・Test Schedule: Twice a year
・Locations: Japan and overseas
▶ Click here for JLPT Test Information

③ Nursing Care Japanese Evaluation Test (for Nursing Care only)
・Passing Score: 80% or higher
・Available year-round
・Locations: Japan and overseas
▶ Click here for Nursing Care Test Information

4. Documents Needed for Application

To change from a Student Visa to an SSW Visa, prepare the following documents:

① Application for Change of Status of Residence
② One Photo (passport size)
③ Passport
④ Residence Card
⑤ Resume (1 copy)
⑥ Graduation Certificate (and Academic Transcript if required)
⑦ Statement of Reason for Application

Prepare these documents and submit them to the Immigration Services Bureau.

5. Important Points to Note

When changing from a Student Visa to an SSW Visa, keep the following in mind:

① Application Period

You must apply before your current visa expires.

② Processing Time

It usually takes about 2 weeks to 1 month after application. Start the process early.

③ Where to Apply

Apply at the Regional Immigration Services Bureau in your area.

④ Where to Get Help

If you have any questions about the process, you can get assistance:

Immigration Information Center for Foreign Residents
Phone: 0570-013904

6. Find Jobs for SSW Visa Holders

To change to an SSW Visa, you first need to get a job offer. YOLO JAPAN offers many jobs with visa support.

Membership is FREE. Once registered, you can quickly find jobs that match your skills.

7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)