What is SSW (Specified Skilled Workers) and What are the Requirements?

Japan is currently facing significant demographic challenges. The latest report from Japan's Ministry of Home Affairs as of October 2024 noted that the working-age population (15-64 years old) continues to shrink, creating labor shortages in various crucial sectors. This decline has even occurred for 14 consecutive years, prompting the Japanese government to seek strategic solutions.

In response to these conditions, quoting from the BP2MI page, the Japanese government opened a wide door for competent foreign workers. One of the concrete steps is through the signing of a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC SSW) with the Government of the Republic of Indonesia on June 25, 2019. This agreement laid the foundation for a special residence permit scheme designed for workers with specialized skills.

This is what has become widely known as the Specified Skilled Workers (SSW) program, an official pathway that is a golden bridge for Indonesian talents to have a career and build a future in Sakura Country. So, what exactly is SSW and what are the requirements that must be met to grab this opportunity? Let's take a closer look in this article.

Definition of SSW (Specified Skilled Workers)

Launching from the Talent Indonesia website, Specified Skilled Workers or SSW is a new status of residence for workers who have specific skills that was officially launched by the Japanese Government since April 1, 2019, SSW itself in Japanese is known as Tokutei Ginou (特定技能). The program is specifically designed as a solution to address the massive labor shortage in Japan's various industrial sectors.

Through cooperation with partner countries, including Indonesia, the SSW(Specified Skilled Workers) program opens up opportunities for foreign nationals to work legally. The main advantage is that SSW status holders have the same rights and obligations as Japanese workers.

Types of SSW Workers

The Japanese government through the Embassy of Japan website officially divides the SSW program into two main categories, namely Specified Skilled Workers No. 1 (SSW 1) and Specified Skilled Workers No. 2 (SSW 2). This division is based on the level of skill required, duration of stay, and some other conditions.

Here are 5 fundamental differences between SSW 1 and SSW 2:

1. Skill Level Required

   • SSW 1: Aimed at foreign workers who have a sufficient level of knowledge or experience in a particular industry. This is the entry level for entry into the SSW program.
   • SSW 2: Aimed at foreign workers who already have a proficient and proven skill level in specific industry fields.

2. Period of Stay

   • SSW 1: Has a maximum total period of stay of 5 years and cannot be extended beyond this limit.
   • SSW 2: There is no extension time limit. Holders of this status can continue to extend their residence permit and potentially stay longer in Japan.

3. Skill Test Standards

   • SSW 1: It is mandatory to pass an exam to prove technical skills. However, there is an exception: those who have already completed the Technical Intern Training No. 2 program are exempt from this exam requirement.
   • SSW 2: Still required to pass a higher level skills exam to prove proficiency.

4. Japanese Language Proficiency Test Standard

   • SSW 1: Required to pass a Japanese language proficiency test equivalent to daily communication and work needs. Just like the skills exam, No. 2 apprentices are also exempt from this exam.
   • SSW 2: There is no requirement to take the Japanese language proficiency test.

5. Permission to Bring Family

   • SSW 1: It is basically not allowed to bring family members (spouse or children) to live together in Japan.
   • SSW 2: It is possible to bring your spouse and children to live in Japan, as long as you meet all the requirements.

Eligibility for SSW (Specified Skilled Workers)

In general, here are the main requirements that must be met by prospective Indonesian Migrant Workers (CPMI) quoted from the Talent Indonesia website:

• Minimum Age 18 Years
• Minimum high school education
• Passed Competency Test & Japanese Language
• Physical and Spiritual Health
• Social Security membership
• Complete documents

You now know that the SSW program is the official pathway to your dream career in Japan. Don't let this opportunity pass you by. As an authorized and trusted employment channel, GSC (SEA) is ready to guide you every step of the way from document processing, placement to connecting directly with companies in Japan.