For foreign nationals aiming to obtain the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) visa in the food service industry, we have summarized the conditions required to work as an SSW in Japan. We also included stories from foreign nationals who have worked in this field with support from Peregre Works to help you form an image of what it is like to work here.
How to Become an SSW in the Food Service Industry from Within Japan
To become an SSW in the food service industry from within Japan, you need to meet three main conditions: pass the exam, demonstrate Japanese language proficiency, and acquire the appropriate visa status.
- Pass the Food Service Skills Measurement Exam
- Pass the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) N4 or JFT-Basic
- Obtain the appropriate visa status:
- Student
- Dependent
- Trainee
- Specified Activities (e.g., Working Holiday, Refugee Application)
Initially, it was said that those under the Specified Activities visa due to refugee applications could not change to the SSW 1 visa even if they passed the exam and had N4 or higher Japanese proficiency, but currently there are some cases to have the eligible permit of SSW. .
How to Become an SSW in the Food Service Industry from Outside Japan
The main difference for those outside Japan is that the countries where exams are conducted are limited. If you cannot take the exam in your home country, you may need to consider taking it in a neighboring country. Additionally, you must have a job offer to come to Japan to work. Therefore, it is recommended to study for the exams required to meet the SSW 1 requirements while looking for job opportunities.
Countries and Regions Where the Food Service Skills Measurement Exam is Held
- Myanmar
- Philippines
- Nepal
- Thailand
- Sri Lanka
- Cambodia
- Indonesia
- Bangladesh
- India
- Mongolia
- Uzbekistan
- Vietnam
For details on exam dates and host countries, visit:
Countries and Regions Where the JLPT is Held
- Myanmar
- Philippines
- Nepal
- Thailand
- Sri Lanka
- Cambodia
- Indonesia
- Bangladesh
- India
- Mongolia
- Uzbekistan
- Vietnam
Countries and Regions Where the JFT-Basic Exam is Held
- Myanmar
- Philippines
- Nepal
- Thailand
- Sri Lanka
- Cambodia
- Indonesia
- Bangladesh
- India
- Mongolia
- Uzbekistan
- Vietnam
For more details on dates and locations, visit:
Conclusion
The "Specified Skilled Worker (SSW)" visa for the food service industry has evolved to allow long-term residency in Japan if you advance to Level 2.
While the job opportunities are limited to roles in restaurants and catering, these positions offer responsibilities at the same level as Japanese workers, including managerial roles, along with equal pay and benefits.To qualify for Level 2, you need a Japanese language proficiency of JLPT N3 and practical experience as a manager or assistant manager.
This path provides a clear sense of career advancement and numerous opportunities for learning and personal growth.We offer job placements in the food service industry. If you're interested, please contact us through our Facebook page.
