The SSW (Specified Skilled Worker) Visa, locally known as the Tokutei Ginou Visa, is one of the most popular work visa programs for Nepali workers aiming to build a long-term career in Japan. With high salaries, an advanced work culture, and a growing demand for foreign manpower, Japan is actively hiring Nepalese candidates under this visa system.
Meaning of SSW (Tokutei Ginou) Visa
The SSW Visa is a Japanese government-approved work visa allowing foreign workers, including Nepali citizens, to work in Japan in specific labor-shortage industries.
Key Features of the SSW Visa
- Requires Japanese language test (JLPT N4 or JFT Basic)
- Requires Japan skill test (sector-wise)
- Valid for 1–5 years
- Allows job change within the same sector
- Can lead to SSW Type 2, which offers long-term residence benefits
This visa offers a more stable and secure employment pathway compared to TITP (Internship Program).
Sectors Under the SSW (Tokutei Ginou) Program
There are 12 official sectors approved under SSW Category 1. These sectors hire large numbers of Nepali workers due to shortages in Japan.
Top SSW Job Sectors for Nepali Candidates
- Caregiver (Nursing Care)
- Restaurant & Food Services
- Food & Beverage Manufacturing
- Agriculture
- Fisheries
- Logistics & Warehousing
- Industrial Machinery
- Automobile Repair
- Construction
- Aviation
- Electronics & Electrical
- Accommodation & Hotels
These sectors offer high demand, competitive salaries, and long-term work opportunities.
Eligibility for Nepali Workers to Apply for SSW Visa
To apply for Japan’s SSW visa, Nepali candidates must meet official requirements.
Basic Eligibility Criteria
- Must be 18 years or older
- Must pass JLPT N4 or JFT A2 language test
- Must clear the Japan-recognized skill test in the chosen sector
- Must have a valid passport
- Must have a clean background and police report
- Must be medically fit
Additional Requirements
- Job offer from a registered Japanese company
- No prior immigration violations
- Training or work experience (sector-specific)
Benefits of the SSW (Tokutei Ginou) Visa for Nepali Workers
The SSW visa is considered one of the most beneficial visas for Nepalese planning to work in Japan.
Major Benefits
- Direct employment (not trainee-level)
- Equal salary as Japanese workers
- Legal job change freedom (same sector)
- Better working conditions & labor rights
- Opportunity to upgrade to SSW Type 2
- Long-term stability and career growth
- Demand for Nepali manpower increasing yearly
Why Nepali Workers Prefer SSW
- Reliable income
- Fast processing time
- Government-approved system
- High job security
- Transparent hiring process
