If you choose "Plain Japanese", it will be a simple sentence and a phonetic.
If you select "Attach hiragana", you will add furigana to your sentence.
You can select your native language in "Language" to translate it.

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If you choose "Plain Japanese", it will be a simple sentence and a phonetic.
If you select "Attach hiragana", you will add furigana to your sentence.
You can select your native language in "Language" to translate it.

Details and application for The Specified Skills Evaluation Exam

Those taking the exam outside of Japan

★A blog for foreigners working in Japan★

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Those taking the exam outside of Japan

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Concerns about living in Japan
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We have compiled a list of frequently asked questions about life and work in Japan from people who want to work or are currently working in Japan.

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About Specified Skills

What is the "Specified Skills" status of residence?

"Specified Skills" is a residence status created to enable foreigners to work and thrive in Japan, and there are two types: No. 1 and No. 2.
If you have a "Specified Skills" qualification, you can earn the same or more salary as a Japanese person.

What is "Specified Skilled Worker (ii)"?

This is a status of residence given to foreign nationals with more specialized skills than Specified Skilled Worker (i).
If you renew your visa, there is no limit to your period of stay.
You can bring your family (spouse and children only) over to live with you in Japan.

How do I become a "Specified Skilled Worker (i)"?

How to become a Specified Skilled Worker (i) Technical Intern Training depends on whether you have experience or not.

[Inexperienced]
Pass the following two exams:
(1) "The Specified Skills (i) Evaluation Exam for Construction Industry" or "Skill Test Level 3"
(2) "Japan Foundation Test for Basic Japanese" or "Japanese ability test N4 or higher"
[Experienced person]
Technical Intern Training students who have completed Technical Intern Training (ii) in good standing
*"Good completion of Technical Intern Training (ii)" means that you must have completed a Technical Intern Training for at least 2 years and 10 months and meet one of the following:(1) Pass the practical test of the skill test level 3 or the Technical Intern Training evaluation test (professional level).
(2) Although the student has not passed the practical test of the Skill Test Level 3 or Technical Intern Training Evaluation Test (Professional Level), the Technical Intern Training (ii) must have been "well completed" by the evaluation report prepared by the trainee who describes the attendance status during the training, the acquisition of skills, etc., and the attitude towards life.

What are the requirements and necessary procedures to become a "Specified Skilled Worker (ii)"

[Required Requirements]
You need two things:
(1) Certain practical experience as a team leaderFor occupations with competency evaluation standards by CCUS, the number of working days (foreman + team leader) equivalent to level 3 in the relevant occupation is required.
In the case of a job that does not have a competency evaluation standard, it is "the number of working days (foreman + team leader) must be 3 years or more (645 working days)".
For details, please check the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism materials from the URL below.
https://www.mlit.go.jp/tochi_fudousan_kensetsugyo/content/001499418.pdf
*The number of days is determined based on the "number of working days as a foreman or team leader" required by Level 3 of the competency evaluation standard, and a level 3 judgment is not necessarily required.
*If your work experience as a team leader is not listed in the CCUS Technician ID, you will also submit the "Field Reference Form No. 6-3 Attachment Career Certificate".
You can download it from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism page from the URL below.
https://www.mlit.go.jp/tochi_fudousan_kensetsugyo/tochi_fudousan_kensetsugyo_tk3_000001_00003.html

(2) Passing the "The Specified Skills (ii) Evaluation Exam for Construction Industry" or "Grade 1 of the National Trade Skill Test & Certification "Currently, there is no requirement for the Japanese exam.
For details, please refer to Appendix 2 of the "Policy on the Operation of the System for Specified Skills Status of Residence in the Construction Sector".
[Required procedures]
Immigration Services Agency of Japan Submit the required documents. There are no documents to submit to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism.
For more information, please check the Immigration Services Agency of Japan website.
*If a person who is currently working in Specified Skilled Worker (i) becomes a Specified Skilled Worker (ii), they must report the "No. 2 Transition Report" from the Foreign Employment Management System.

Can I use the JAC job placement or FITS native language consultation desk for "Specified Skilled Worker (ii)"?

JAC's free job placement is also available in "Specified Skilled Worker (ii)".
FITS native language consultation desk is not available.

What is a "proficiency test"?

The "Skill Test" is an exam taken to obtain the status of residence "Specified Skills".
There are exams in Specified Skilled Worker (i) and No. 2.
・ Exams to become a Specified Skilled Worker (i)
"Skill Test Level 3" or "The Specified Skills (i) Evaluation Exam for Construction Industry "
・ Exams to become a Specified Skilled Worker (ii)
Grade 1 of the National Trade Skill Test & Certification or The Specified Skills (ii) Evaluation Exam for Construction Industry

What is the content of the "The Specified Skills Evaluation Exam for Construction Industry"?

There are "No. 1 Evaluation Test" and "No. 2 Evaluation Test" in the three fields of "Civil Engineering", "Architecture", and "Infrastructure Facilities Equipment", and there are academic exams and practical exams respectively.
It will be conducted in a computer-based CBT test.
・ The content of the No. 1 evaluation test is at the level of the skill test level 3, and the skills and knowledge that beginner technicians should possess are required.
・ The content of the No. 2 evaluation test is level Grade 1 of the National Trade Skill Test & Certification, and the skills and knowledge that advanced technicians should possess are questioned.
For more information, please check the The Specified Skills Evaluation Exam for Construction Industry page.
Textbooks that understand the scope of the exam, sample questions, and texts translated into various languages are available as reference materials.

What is the "Japanese Language Examination"?

The "Japanese Examination" is an exam that must be taken to obtain the status of residence "Specified Skills".
There are two types of exams to become a Specified Skilled Worker (i):
・ Japan Foundation Test for Basic Japanese
・ Japanese Proficiency Test N4 or higher

How do I cancel my exam application?

Exams held in Japan before November 2025
Please cancel through the "JAC Members" app.
Cancel your exam application (JAC Members)

Exams held outside Japan
Or an exam held in Japan after December 2025
Please check the Prometric testing site.
FAQ: I want to cancel my exam


*As of September 17, 2025, exams cannot be canceled once they have been booked through Prometric.
However, if the reservation change acceptance deadline has not yet passed, you can log in to the dedicated exam page and make the change.
Please check the Prometric testing site for the most up-to-date information.

How can I check and receive my exam results and certificate?

If you have taken the exam held in Japan after January 2025, please check the link below.
Receive exam results and certificates in the "JAC Members" app (JAC Members)

If you have taken an exam held before December 2024 in Japan, please check the information below.
You will receive your exam results in a message on My Page within about 2 weeks after the exam ends.
If passed, a the pass certificate is attached to the message. The PDF file of the pass certificate is the original, so please keep it safe.
*We cannot respond to inquiries about the content of the exam or whether it passes or fails.

Please check the link below to check the message from My Page.
Check exam results and certificates on "My Page"

Please tell me the time to gather for the exam and how to check my exam ticket.

Exams held in Japan before November 2025
Please check the "JAC Members" app.
Apply for the exam (JAC Members) 4-2. Confirm your application details

Exams held outside Japan
Or an exam held in Japan after December 2025
Please check the Prometric testing site.
FAQ: Check your confirmation letter

What are the three categories of work that Specified Skilled Worker are engaged in?

The main tasks of each business category are as follows.
[Business Division: Civil Engineering]
Frame working / Concrete pressure feeding / Tunnel propulsion work / Application of construction equipment / Earthwork / Reinforcing bar construction / Tobi / Marine civil engineering / Other work related to the construction, renovation, maintenance, and repair of civil engineering facilities
[Business Category: Construction]
Frame working / Plastering / Concrete pressure feeding / Roofing / Earthworks / Reinforcing bar construction / Rebar Joints / Interior Finishing / Paper hanging / Furnishing / Carpentry / Building sheet metal work / Sprayed urethane insulation / Other work related to new construction, extension, renovation or relocation of buildings, repairs, redecorations or related work
[Business Category: Infrastructure Facilities ・Equipment]
Telecommunications/Plumbing/ Building sheet metal work /Thermal insulation/Other, Infrastructure Facilities ・Work related to maintenance, installation, modification, or repair of equipment

The details are stipulated in the "Operational Guidelines for Acceptance of Specified Skilled Worker in Specific Fields - Standards for the Construction Field" (March 31, Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism). Please refer to "Appendix 6-2 (p.51)" to "Appendix 6-7 (p.56)".

What is the "Post-Acceptance Course"?

"Post-acceptance course" is a course that Specified Skilled Worker takes.
Specified Skilled Worker Understand your own acceptance status and protection mechanisms to see if there is any fraud committed by the company.
*Hosting companies are required to take the Specified Skilled Worker within about 6 months after accepting it. The implementing organization's FITS will send information on the date, time, location, etc. to the host company, so please check with the company.

What is "FITS"?

Specified Skilled Worker is an organization that supports ensuring a proper working environment. We perform the following tasks:
・Hotline service that accepts consultations in your native language
・Tour guidance to visit host companies, etc.

I hear there's a good job available, so can I change jobs?

The people at your company are taking good care of you and training you to become a full-fledged professional. It's no good just disappearing without telling anyone. If you're planning on changing jobs, be sure to tell people at your company first.

Can I take the Specified Skills exam multiple times?

I don't know about other fields, but in the construction field you can take the exam as many times as you like.

Is educational background required for Specified Skills?

There is no educational requirement, but you must pass the Japanese language test and the skill test. Specified Skilled Worker must also be at least 18 years old.

I have a "Specified Skills." My company went bankrupt. Do I have to go back to my home country immediately?

Even if the Specified Skilled Worker loses his or her job, he or she does not have to return to his or her home country immediately, but if he or she is looking for a job, he or she can stay at least for the duration of his stay. However, if you stay in Japan for more than 3 months without looking for a job, your status of residence may be revoked.

I want to be Specified Skilled Worker. How do I find a place to work?

  • In Japan, you can use Hello Work or apply for a job at the JAC.
    Also, when you are overseas, please make use of an employment placement agency to communicate with companies.
  • ▼Get a job introduction from JAC▼
    [Free] Job Application Form

"Technical Intern Training" is about to be completed, but I was told that I can't do my job in the same company. Can you introduce me to the next job?

  • If you complete your Technical Intern Training well, you can move to "Specified Skills" and continue working in the Japan. You can introduce jobs to JAC for free, so please consult with your company and apply from the "Technical Intern Training Graduate Job Search Form". (You cannot register by yourself.) Be sure to ask someone from the company to register it.)
  • ▼Companies register Technical Intern Training students▼
    Technical Intern Training Graduate Job Search Form

Can a person with "Specified Skills" status of residence be granted permanent residence permission?

The maximum period of stay in Japan with a "Specified Skilled Worker (i)" status is five years. Therefore, it is difficult to change to a "Permanent Resident" status.

I would like to come to Japan with my family. Can I bring my family with me?

Specified Skilled Worker (i) does not allow family members to accompany the worker. Specified Skilled Worker (ii) allows family members to accompany the worker.

About life in Japan

I was told off for being noisy at home (in my apartment or dormitory). Is Japan a quiet country?

In Japan, few people play loud music at home and dance or make noise. Dormitories probably have their own rules. Make sure to follow them.

Can two foreigners get married in Japan?

Yes, you can. For more information, please contact your home country's embassy.

I send too much money back to my home country and it's making life difficult.

To live in Japan, you need a certain amount of money. You can stay in Japan for up to 5 years with the Type 1 Specified Skills visa. Your own health is also important. Make sure to plan your remittances to your home country.

I want to catch fish in the river or the sea and eat them.

Each river and ocean has its own rules, so please ask people nearby.

I lost my residence card. What should I do?

Immediately report this to the nearest police station. Then, within 14 days, request a reissue at the nearest regional immigration office. There is no fee. Also, tell your company.

What is a residence card?

It is an important document that proves your identity. Do not hand it over to someone at your company, even if they say they will keep it for you. It is as important as your passport. Carry it with you at all times.

What should I do if something happens?

To call the police (in the event of theft or violence), dial 110. For fires or emergencies (in the event of a serious injury or sudden illness that renders you unable to move), dial 119.

I'm afraid of earthquakes.

Japanese buildings are well-constructed by the people, so they rarely collapse during an earthquake. If an earthquake does occur, stay calm and get under a desk to protect your head and body.
Once the shaking has stopped, seek refuge in a safe place.
What to be careful of and what to prepare in case of an earthquake (Japanese)

I'm not feeling well. What should I do?

First, tell your coworkers. When you go to the hospital, don't forget to bring your health insurance card. Present your health insurance card at the reception and tell them your symptoms. After that, when your name is called, enter the examination room and explain your symptoms to the doctor in detail. Even if you don't understand Japanese, you can use gestures to make sure you communicate clearly.

I don't know how to navigate the trains in Tokyo. What should I do?

In Japan, nowadays, many stations have symbols attached to their names to make them easier for foreigners to understand. It's okay if you can't read the characters. If you don't understand, just ask someone nearby.

Could you please tell me how to get on the train?

First, buy a ticket to your destination at the station. There is a map above so you can find it.
Put in money and press the appropriate amount. Put the ticket into the automatic ticket gate and don't forget to pick up your ticket when it comes out.

I heard that two people shouldn't ride a bicycle together. Is that true?

Yes. It is prohibited to ride a bicycle with two people on it. Please obey traffic lights and turn on your headlights at night. It is also prohibited to ride a bicycle after drinking alcohol.

What are the traffic rules in Japan?

In Japan, cars drive on the left side of the road, and people drive on the right side of the road. Bicycles also drive on the left side of the road.

How much does it cost to live in Japan?

If the company provides a place to live, housing costs will generally be around 15,000 to 20,000 yen.

Salary and money

I heard that wages are higher in Tokyo. Is that true? I want to go to Tokyo and find a job.

It is true that wages are higher in urban areas such as Tokyo. However, prices are also high, as are transportation and rent costs, so in reality, take-home pay can be higher in rural areas. Think carefully.

How can I get my boss to raise my salary?

It depends on the company. Some companies will give you an extra 20,000 yen per month if you pass the N1 level of Japanese, and many companies will give you an allowance depending on your level of Japanese. If you study Japanese and do your job well, the company president will keep an eye on you.

I don't intend to work in Japan forever. I don't need a pension, so I don't want to pay it.

People between the ages of 20 and 60 who work in Japan are required to pay into the pension system. However, they are given a "lump-sum withdrawal payment" when they return to their home country.

What is employment insurance?

This provides benefits when you become unemployed or are unable to work due to illness or injury.

This is different from the amount I was originally told about.

In Japan, taxes are deducted from your salary and the remaining amount is transferred to your account. We have posted a blog on how to read your pay slip.

JAC provides free support for obtaining qualifications to work in Japan's construction industry and introduces jobs in Japan.

What is JAC? For more information, click here