Feature | Column | Status of Residence Required for Working in Japan

 — Conditions and benefits explained in plain language 

For those who hope to build a long-term career in Japan, live with their family, and earn higher wages, transitioning from the TITP to the SSW status can be an important opportunity to transform both their career and their life.

This article explains the differences between the systems, the main requirements, and the practical steps and documents to prepare. It also summarizes how the new “Employment for Skill Development” system (passed in June 2024) is expected to affect this pathway. 

1. Comparison of the TITP and SSW  

If you have already become accustomed to life in Japan, the next step to consider is the SSW residence status. The TITP and the SSW differ greatly in terms of the purpose of stay, the level of skills required, and the level of flexibility allowed. Let’s first look at these key differences.

1-1. Differences in the Purpose and Basic Structure

The table below summarizes the main differences between the current TITP, SSW (i), and SSW (ii) (a higher skill level). 

In short, TITP is a system for “learning,” while SSW is based on working as an “Job-ready worker”. The 2023 revision expanded the fields where it is possible to advance to SSW (ii) (1), which can support longer-term career planning in a wider range of industries. 

1-2. Differences in Salary, Stay Period, and Permitted Work 

When someone switches from TITP to SSW, the following points often change: 

1. Increased salary: Technical Intern Trainees often receive wages close to the regional minimum wage. Under SSW, companies must pay wages that are “equal to or higher than Japanese workers performing the same job” (2). 
   

2. Extended stay period: TITP is limited to 5 years. Moving to SSW (i) can extend the overall time a person can stay and work in Japan for a total of 10 years. Advancing to SSW (ii) can allow continued work without a fixed renewal limit (3). 
   

3. Changes in job responsibilities: Under TITP, work may be limited to defined tasks. Under SSW, workers are expected to take on more responsibility, such as handling more difficult tasks or supporting on-site management and supervision. 

2. The New “Employment for Skill Development” System and Future Career Paths 

In June 2024, Japan passed a legal revision that will abolish the current TITP and introduce a new system called ‘Employment for Skill Development’. (4)(5) The new framework is designed to help people gain skills while working in Japan and move more smoothly to SSW. Your daily efforts can lead directly to a more stable life and career growth. This creates an environment where those who want to grow in Japan can take on new opportunities with greater peace of mind.

2-1. Differences Between the “Employment for Skill Development” and the “TITP” Systems 

The main feature of the new system is that it is designed from the outset to support progression to SSW. This helps workers use their current experience for the next step, and it supports career continuity in the same or related field. 

2-2. Key Points of the New “Employment for Skill Development” System 

A direct path to SSW: Companies will be expected to support workers so that, after the standard period (generally three years), they can meet the requirements to move to SSW (i). 

Emphasis on Japanese language: Stronger Japanese skills are encouraged so that workers can live safely in Japan for the long term. 

3. Three Requirements for Transitioning from the TITP to the SSW 

To transition current TITP to SSW (i), the following three points must be met. 

Requirement 1: Successful Completion of TITP (ii) or (iii) 

To be recognized as ‘successfully completed,’ the worker usually needs (3): 

• A total of at least 2 years and 10 months of training (from TITP (i) through (ii)).  

• Proof of skill level, such as (any one): passing Grade 3 of the Trade Skill Test / TITP Evaluation Test (practical), or an evaluation report issued by the implementing organization (accepting company) confirming that the trainee has made satisfactory progress in skill acquisition. (Submission of the evaluation report may not be required, depending on the application.)

• Note: switching is generally not allowed if the training was interrupted mid-way. 

Requirement 2: Relevance Between Occupation and SSW Field 

The job you did under TITP and the SSW field you want to enter must be ‘relevant.’ This is checked using the official correspondence tables published by the Immigration Services Agency of Japan.

Requirement 3: Conditions for Exemption from Skill and Japanese Language Tests 

If TITP (ii) (about 3 years) was completed successfully and the worker moves into a related SSW field, both the skills exam and the Japanese language exam may be exempt. The idea is that three years of work experience in Japan is treated as equal to passing the exams. 

4. Transition Procedure Flow and Required Documents 

As a practical guideline, start preparing 4–5 months before the current period of stay expires. 

4-1. 5 Steps from Application to Approval 

1. Signing the employment contract: Confirm SSW working conditions and sign a contract with the company. 

2. Pre-arrival guidance and health examination: Provide required guidance and complete a health check covering specified items. 

3. Support plan: Confirm the “10 support items,” including daily-life orientation and consultation services. 

4. Application for change of status of residence: Submit documents to the local Immigration Bureau to apply for SSW. 

5. Receiving the new Residence Card: After approval, receive the new card and continue employment under SSW. 

4-2. Documents Prepared by the Applicant and Documents Prepared by the Company 

Because the procedure can be complex, close coordination with the employer and/or a Registered Support Organization is important. 

• Examples of documents prepared by the applicant: copy of Residence Card, copy of passport, resume (accurate description of your educational and work history), completion certificate of TITP(ii) or (iii) (or evaluation report), and health check results. 

• Examples of documents prepared by the accepting company (or a Registered Support Organization): SSW employment contract, support plan for SSW (i), and documents showing stable company operation (finance/tax-related). 

4-3. Utilizing Special Measures (Designated Activities) When Residence Period Is Approaching Expiration 

If you want to switch to SSW (i) but your period of stay is close to expiring and documents are not ready, the Immigration Bureau may allow a switch to ‘Designated Activities’ (up to 6 months, work permitted). (6) As of January 2024, the granted period was extended from four months to six months. This helps you stay and work while completing the SSW procedure. To use this measure, you must already meet both the skills test and the Japanese test requirement (or qualify for exemption, such as successful completion of TITP (ii)). 

5. Benefits of Switching and Points to Consider 

Switching to SSW can expand options for longer employment and stronger retention, while also increasing expectations as a professional worker. 

5-1. Potential for Higher Salary and Long-Term Stay 

Under SSW, a fair wage structure is required based on the principle of equal pay for equal work. This can lead to pay increases and clearer progression as skills and experience grow. 

SSW (i) has a time limit, but moving to SSW (ii) removes renewal restrictions in eligible fields. It can also enable family accompaniment in line with the SSW (ii) rules. 

5-2. Changes in Job Responsibilities and Required Skills 

After transitioning to the SSW status, workers are expected to move from the “learning” stage of the TITP to becoming job-ready professionals who actively support the workplace. 

Advanced Skills and Mentoring of Junior Workers
In addition to handling more advanced tasks, workers will increasingly be expected to show leadership in the workplace by providing guidance and advice to technical intern trainees and other junior staff.

Advanced Communication Skills
Along with accurately understanding work instructions, stronger practical Japanese communication skills are essential for smooth coordination at the workplace and for expressing one’s own ideas appropriately.

Independent Life Management
As members of Japanese society, it becomes even more important to live independently by complying with various laws and regulations, maintaining good health, and managing personal finances responsibly.

6. Common Issues and Countermeasures 

During the process of transitioning to the SSW status, incomplete documentation or insufficient verification may lead to the application being denied or make it difficult for the worker to continue employment in Japan. To ensure a smooth transition, please make sure to carefully check the following important points.

6-1. Rules in Your Home Country and Procedures for Temporary Return 

SSW procedures can differ by country based on bilateral arrangements (MOC) (7). Some countries require additional registrations or approvals. If a worker plans to return home temporarily during the transition, it is important to confirm re-entry procedures and complete any required registrations before travel. 

• For Vietnamese Nationals: Registration on the DOLAB (Department of Overseas Labour) Recommendation List
  Vietnamese nationals must be listed on the DOLAB “Recommendation List” and receive approval before starting work as a SSW. If they are not registered on this list, they will not be permitted to begin employment under the SSW status.

• For Filipino Nationals: Registration with the DMW (formerly POEA) and Notarization of the Employment Contract
  Filipino nationals are required to register with the DMW (Department of Migrant Workers), a Philippine government agency. In addition, the employment contract must be certified and notarized by the MWO (Migrant Workers Office) at the Philippine Embassy in Japan.

• For Indonesian Nationals: Registration in “SISKOP2MI”
  Registration in “SISKOP2MI,” the Indonesian government’s official management system, is mandatory. If a worker temporarily returns to Indonesia without completing this registration, there have been cases where re-entry to Japan was refused at the local airport. Before returning home for vacation or other reasons, be sure to confirm that the registration has been completed.

6-2. Where to Seek Advice and Support Systems When Facing Difficulties 

If problems arise (working conditions, paperwork, or daily-life concerns), consult the Registered Support Organization first, as it must provide support in the worker’s native language. Supervising organizations and sending organizations may also provide guidance depending on the situation. 

7. Summary 

Transitioning from TITP to SSW can be a strong option for companies and workers who want a longer, more stable working relationship in Japan. Because requirements and procedures can be complex—and the new “Employment for Skill Development” system is also coming—early preparation and compliant processes are essential. 

CROSSY GLOBAL provides support for job seekers (foreign workers) 1 and for business users such as accepting companies, Registered Support Organizations, Supervising and Support Organizations, and educational institutions (Sending Organization) 2. Please feel free to contact us for consultation. 

CROSSY GLOBAL helps build a more prosperous society across borders through compliant, safe operations and well-matched employment opportunities.

*1 Job seeker portal: https://crossy-global.jobs 

*2 Business portal: https://crossy-global.biz 

8. Reference and Citation List 

(1) Addition of fields eligible for SSW (ii) (Cabinet Decision, June 9, 2023):
https://www.moj.go.jp/isa/applications/ssw/03_00067.html 

(2) Q&A Regarding the SSW System:
https://www.moj.go.jp/isa/content/930006254.pdf 

(3) Specified Skilled Guidebook:
https://www.moj.go.jp/isa/content/930006033.pdf 

(4) Overview of the Employment for Skill Development and related laws and regulations:
https://www.moj.go.jp/isa/03_00163.html 

(5) Overview of the Revised Act (Establishment of the Employment for Skill Development, etc.):
https://www.moj.go.jp/isa/content/001415280.pdf 

(6) SSW-related Designated Activities (if you wish to transition to "SSW (i)"):

https://www.moj.go.jp/isa/applications/ssw/10_00025.html 

(7) Bilateral Memorandum of Cooperation on SSW:
https://www.moj.go.jp/isa/applications/ssw/nyuukokukanri05_00021.html