How to Find Jobs in Japan with Visa Sponsorship
Do you hold a Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) visa but want to stay in Japan longer?
This guide explains how to switch to a long-term work visa with visa sponsorship, and how to find the right job to support your future in Japan.
＞＞Click here if you're looking for visa-sponsored job information right away.
Beginning: Feeling Uncertain About Your SSW Visa?
If you're reading this, you're probably working in Japan with a Specified Skilled Worker visa.
While this visa allows you to work in Japan, it has a major drawback—you can only stay for up to 5 years.
That limitation can cause serious anxiety about your future.
But don’t worry. There’s a way to stay in Japan longer by switching to another type of work visa.
Let’s help you build a secure, long-term future in Japan.
Looking for jobs with visa sponsorship?
Register on YOLO JAPAN for free —it only takes 3 minutes!
SIGN UP
1. Understanding the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) Visa
1-1. What is an SSW Visa?
The Specified Skilled Worker visa was introduced in 2019 to allow foreigners to work in specific industries in Japan.
There are 16 eligible sectors as of May 2025, including:
Nursing care / Manufacturing / Food service / Construction
...and more.
Learn more in our full guide:
Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) Visa in Japan: Your Guide to Long-Term Employment
1-2. What's the Problem with the SSW Visa?
The biggest issue is the 5-year limit.
Once your visa expires, you may have no choice but to leave Japan.
It can also be challenging to find a new job or navigate the visa process within that limited timeframe.
1-3. Why You Should Consider Switching Visas
If you want to stay in Japan beyond the 5-year limit, it’s important to start considering a switch to a long-term visa now.
One popular option is the “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” visa.
This type of visa can be renewed, allowing you to stay in Japan for the long term.
That’s why transitioning from the SSW visa is a key step if you're aiming to build a stable life here.
2. What Work Visas Can You Transition to From the SSW?
2-1. What Is the Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services Visa?
This visa is a common choice for people transitioning from the SSW visa.
It allows foreigners to work in professional fields such as:
・IT engineering
・Translation or interpreting
・Sales and marketing
・Design
To qualify, you’ll need relevant education or work experience.
And most importantly — you must have a company willing to support your visa application.
This is known as visa sponsorship.
2-2. What Are the Requirements?
Here are the typical requirements:
・Education or Experience: A high school diploma or relevant work history
・Language Ability: JLPT N2 or higher is often required
・Visa Sponsorship: A company must be willing to sponsor your new visa
2-3. Other Work Visas You Can Switch To
In addition to the Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services visa, other options include:
・Nursing Care visa
・Business Manager visa
Each visa type has different requirements, so be sure to research carefully to find the one that best matches your background and goals.
2-4. SSW Visa vs. Other Work Visas
|
Visa Type |
Max Duration |
Live with Family? |
Renewable? |
|
SSW (Type 1) |
Up to 5 years |
× Not Allowed |
× No |
|
Engineer/Humanities/Intl. Svcs. |
Unlimited (renew) |
○ Yes |
○ Yes |
|
Nursing Care Visa |
Unlimited (renew) |
○ Yes |
○ Yes |
|
Business Manager Visa |
Unlimited (renew) |
○ Yes |
○ Yes |
Switching to a long-term visa means you can stay in Japan longer and even bring your family to live with you.
Ready to find jobs with visa sponsorship? Check out the latest listings on YOLO JAPAN!
Find Visa-Sponsored jobs
3. How to Find Jobs in Japan with Visa Sponsorship
3-1. What Is a Visa Sponsor?
A visa sponsor is a company that supports your visa application to help you stay in Japan.
Without a sponsor, changing your visa is nearly impossible.
3-2. How to Identify Jobs with Visa Sponsorship
Look for keywords such as:
・“Visa sponsorship available”
・“Support for foreign workers”
・”Experience in Hiring Foreign Staff”
These are signs that the company is open to sponsoring foreign employees.
3-3. Job Search Tips by Japanese Language Level
・JLPT N2 or higher: You can apply for many professional jobs.
・JLPT N3–N4: Some companies offer support or roles that require less Japanese.
・Basic Japanese: You can still find jobs that require only simple conversation skills.
4. Find Visa Sponsorship Jobs with YOLO JAPAN
4-1. What is YOLO JAPAN?
YOLO JAPAN is a job site for foreigners living in Japan.
Many of the listings include visa sponsorship options.
Once you register, you can easily find jobs that match your skills and visa status.
4-2. Can SSW Visa Holders Use It?
Yes. YOLO JAPAN is designed for people who already have a work visa..
If you hold a Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) visa, you can confidently use the platform to find new job opportunities.
4-3. Why Use YOLO JAPAN?
・Multilingual support (English, Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, Portuguese)
・No resume required to apply
・Smart "Scout" feature to match you with employers
・Filter job listings by Japanese language level
・Free membership and unlimited job browsing
Conclusion: Secure Your Future in Japan — Starting Today
The SSW visa has a strict 5-year limit.
If you want to stay in Japan longer—or even permanently—you need to start preparing early.
That means finding jobs with visa sponsorship and transitioning to a long-term visa.
With platforms like YOLO JAPAN, it’s easier than ever to find a job that fits your skills, goals, and visa requirements.
Don’t wait—register now and take the first step toward building your future in Japan!
English
Chinese
Korean
Japanese
Vietnamese
Portuguese