About JAC website multilingualization

The JAC website uses AI automatic translation (machine translation). Because it is machine translation, the translation may not always be accurate.

About the automatic translation (machine translation) function

The website is automatically translated (machine translated) according to the language settings of the device you are using to view the website.
To change the language, open the language selection panel from the Language button in the header and select the language.
Some proper nouns may not be translated correctly.
Some pages are not automatically translated. PDFs are not translated.
Links to external sites will not be translated.

Note

Please enable JavaScript when using this function.
This function may not be available in some browsers or viewing environments.

For host companies, click here

We provide multilingual content through machine translation. Translation accuracy is not 100%. About the multilingualization of the JAC website

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.

I don't understand... I'm in trouble... If that happens, please contact us.

First, check out the Q&A!Concerns about living in Japan
Work worries Q&A
Free consultation with JAC *Only within JapanWeekdays 9:00-17:30 Closed on weekends and holidays
FITS (Foundation for International Transfer of Skills and Knowledge in Construction) is available to answer your enquiries in your native language via telephone, fax or email.

For host companies, click here

We provide multilingual content through machine translation. Translation accuracy is not 100%. About the multilingualization of the JAC website

Details and application for The Specified Skills Evaluation Exam

Those taking the exam outside of Japan

★A blog for foreigners working in Japan★

For companies, click here

Those taking the exam outside of Japan

For companies, click here

Concerns about living in Japan
Solving work-related problems Q&A

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.

Try searching for words that interest you!

About Specified Skills

What is the "Specified Skills" status of residence?

"Specified Skills" is a residence status created to allow foreigners to work and succeed in Japan, and there are two types: Type 1 and Type 2.
If you hold the 'Specified Skills' qualification, you can earn the same or higher salary than a Japanese person.

Specified Skills is also introduced in detail on our blog.
[What is Specified Skilled Worker System? Let me explain it clearly! 】
https://nippon.jac-skill.or.jp/specific-skill/specified-skill-system.php

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

We also provide detailed information about the skills test on our blog.
[What is The Specified Skills Evaluation Exam? Exam Content and the Process to Receiving the pass certificate]
https://nippon.jac-skill.or.jp/specific-skill/what-is-the-specific-skill.php

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

We also provide detailed introductions to the types and levels of the Japanese Language Proficiency Test on our blog.
[What is the Japanese Language Proficiency Test for Foreigners?] Introducing Types and Levels
https://nippon.jac-skill.or.jp/exam-info/about-japanese-skill-exam.php

How do I cancel my exam application?

Please check the Prometric website.

FAQ: I want to cancel my exam

*As of March 26, 2026, it is not possible to cancel any exams once they have been booked through Prometric.
However, if it is within the deadline for accepting reservation changes, you can log in to the exam-specific page and proceed with the change.
For the latest information, please check the Prometric website.

Please tell me how to check and receive exam results and pass certificate.

The method of receiving pass certificate varies depending on when you took the test, the country you took the test, and the country where you currently live.
Check the table below to confirm the time and location of the test and receive it by one of A, B, C, or D methods.

	Time of taking the exam
	Until December 2024	January to November 2025	From December 2025
Taking the exam in Japan			A
		B
	C
Taking the exam outside Japan	D	D	D

Please check the result notification on the Prometric website for test results.
Prometric The Specified Skills (i) Evaluation Exam Details & Application
Prometric The Specified Skills (ii) Evaluation Exam Details & Application

pass certificate receive pass certificate through the JAC Members app.
The application process varies depending on the country where you currently live. Please check the following 1 or 2.

1. If you are currently living in Japan
Please check the link below and apply.
Apply for pass certificate of The Specified Skills Evaluation Exam taken in Japan (if you currently live in Japan)

2. If you currently live outside Japan
Please check the link below and apply.
Apply for pass certificate of The Specified Skills Evaluation Exam taken in Japan (if you currently live outside Japan)

Please reissue it using the "JAC Members" app.
Reissue pass certificate of the The Specified Skills Evaluation Exam you took in Japan

Use your JAC My Page ID (email address) to contact the JAC Examination Office (Please contact us at [phone number/email address].

To check messages on JAC's My Page, please check the link below.
Check exam results and pass certificate in 'My Page'

Please receive pass certificate through the "JAC Members" app.
The application process varies depending on the country where you currently live. Please check the following 1 or 2.

1. If you currently live outside Japan
Please check the link below and apply.
Apply for pass certificate of The Specified Skills Evaluation Exam taken outside Japan (if you currently live outside Japan)

2. If you are currently living in Japan
Please check the link below and apply.
Apply for The Specified Skills Evaluation Exam pass certificate taken outside Japan (if you currently reside in Japan)

Reissue

For information on how to reissue pass certificate, please refer to the link below.
How can I reissue the pass certificate of the exam?

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

Please check the Prometric website.
FAQ: Check your confirmation letter

I can't open the PDF file I downloaded to my smartphone using the app.

Please try the method in the link below.
When you can't open a downloaded PDF

Where will the "The Specified Skills Evaluation Exam for Construction Industry" be held?

"The Specified Skills Evaluation Exam for Construction Industry" is conducted at the Prometric Test Center.
For more information, please visit the Prometric website.
The Specified Skills (i) Evaluation Exam for Construction Industry
The Specified Skills (ii) Evaluation Exam for Construction Industry

For more information about The Specified Skills Evaluation Exam for Construction Industry, please visit the following page.
"Evaluation and Examination Information and Application for Specified Skills in the Construction Field"

How often is the "The Specified Skills Evaluation Exam for Construction Industry" held?

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

The main duties by business division are as follows.
[Job Category: Civil Engineering]
Frame working / Concrete pressure feeding / Tunnel propulsion work / Application of construction equipment / Earthwork / Reinforcing bar construction / Scaffolding / 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 / Roof wiping / Earthwork / Reinforcing bar construction / Rebar joints / Interior finishing / Paper hanging / Scaffolding / Carpentry / Building sheet metal work / Spray-coated urethane insulation / Other work related to new construction, extension, remodeling or relocation, repair, remodeling, or related work of buildings
[Business Category: Infrastructure Facilities ・Equipment]
Telecommunications / Piping / Building sheet metal work / Insulation / Others, Infrastructure Facilities ・Work related to equipment maintenance, installation, modification, or repair

Detailed information is stipulated in "Operational Guidelines for Acceptance of Specified Skilled Worker in Specific Fields - Standards for the Construction Sector -" (March 2019, Ministry of Justice and Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism). Please refer to "Appendix 6-2 (p.51)" through "Appendix 6-7 (p.56)."

Specified Skills We also provide detailed information about the work in the "construction field" on our blog.
[Specified Skills (SSW) What types of jobs are included in the "construction field"? Introducing the job responsibilities! 】
https://nippon.jac-skill.or.jp/specific-skill/ssw-category.php

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.

Can I work part-time at another company?

you can't.

Is educational background required for Specified Skills?

There are no educational requirements, but you must pass Japanese exams and skills tests. Additionally, Specified Skilled Worker must be at least 18 years old.

We also explain in detail on our blog whether educational background is required for Specified Skills.
[Is Academic Background Necessary for Specified Skills? Specified Skills Exams and Important Points to Note When Communicating Academic Background
https://nippon.jac-skill.or.jp/specific-skill/educational-background-necessary.php

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

We also cover in detail on how to transition from Technical Intern Training to Specified Skills in our blog.
[Can you migrate from Technical Intern Training to Specified Skills? Conditions and migration methods introduced]
https://nippon.jac-skill.or.jp/specific-skill/technical-training-to-specified-skills.php

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, it's uncommon for people to play loud music at home, dance, or make noise. I'm sure dormitories have their own rules; please follow them carefully.

I've also written a detailed blog post about the house rules you should be aware of when living in an apartment or dormitory.
[Learn about the rules of Japanese homes. We'll also introduce essential tips for using your home.]
https://nippon.jac-skill.or.jp/life-in-japan/japan-home-etiquette.php

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 sea has its own rules. Ask someone nearby.

I've also written a detailed blog post about the manners and rules for fishing in Japanese rivers and seas.
Learn about Japanese fishing etiquette and rules!
https://nippon.jac-skill.or.jp/life-in-japan/japanese-fishing-manners.php

I want to send a letter to my family back home.

Let's go to the post office.

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 (for theft or violence), dial "110" on your phone. For fires or medical emergencies (such as serious injuries or sudden illness that prevents you from moving), dial "119".

I've also written a detailed explanation of how to call an ambulance on my blog.
How do you call an ambulance in Japan? Learn how to use them correctly.
https://nippon.jac-skill.or.jp/life-in-japan/how-to-call-ambulance.php

I'm afraid of earthquakes.

Japanese buildings are very well constructed thanks to your hard work, so they rarely collapse in earthquakes. If an earthquake occurs, don't panic; get under a desk to protect your head and body.
Once the shaking stops, evacuate to a safe place.

I've also written a detailed post on my blog about what to do in the event of an earthquake.
[What would you do if an earthquake early warning sounded? A major earthquake might be coming?]
https://nippon.jac-skill.or.jp/life-in-japan/earthquake-early-warning.php

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

First, inform your colleagues at work. When you go to the hospital, don't forget to bring your health insurance card. Present your health insurance card at the reception desk and explain your symptoms. After that, when your name is called, go into the examination room and explain your symptoms in detail to the doctor. Even if you don't understand Japanese, use gestures to communicate clearly.

I've also written a detailed explanation of how to go about seeing a doctor on my blog.
How to visit a hospital in Japan? We'll also introduce some commonly used phrases at hospitals!
https://nippon.jac-skill.or.jp/life-in-japan/japan-hospital-visit-guide.php

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's a map above, so please use that to find your way.
Insert your money and press the amount. Insert your ticket into the automatic ticket gate and don't forget to take your ticket when it comes out.

I've also written a detailed explanation of how to ride the train on my blog.
[Don't know how to ride Japanese trains? Here's how to buy tickets and the process]
https://nippon.jac-skill.or.jp/life-in-japan/how-to-ride-japanese-trains.php

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

Yes. Riding a bicycle with two people is prohibited. Please obey traffic signals and use your lights at night. Also, riding a bicycle while intoxicated is prohibited.

I've also written a detailed post about bicycle traffic rules on my blog.
[I don't understand Japan's bicycle traffic rules! Here's an explanation of traffic rules and important points to keep in mind.]
https://nippon.jac-skill.or.jp/life-in-japan/bicycle-traffic-rules.php

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 your company provides accommodation, the housing costs will typically be around 15,000 to 20,000 yen.

I've also written a detailed blog post about the cost of living necessary to live in Japan.
[How much do you need to live alone in Japan? We'll also introduce some ways to save money.]
https://nippon.jac-skill.or.jp/life-in-japan/necessary-living-expenses-in-japan.php

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 and other deductions are applied to your salary, and the amount remaining after these deductions is transferred to your bank account.

I've also written a detailed explanation of how to read your payslip on my blog.
[A clear explanation of how to read your payslip! Includes important points and how to handle it.]
https://nippon.jac-skill.or.jp/life-in-japan/how-to-read-paycheck.php

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