If you select "Easy Japanese," the sentences will be simple and will include furigana.
If you select "Add Hiragana", furigana will be added to the sentence.
You can select your native language and translate using "Language".

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 Japan0120220353Weekdays 9:00-17:30 Closed on weekends and holidays
    Feel free to send me a message
    • Facebook（ベトナム語）​Vietnam
    • Facebook（インドネシア語）​Indonesia
  • 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.FITS 母国語で相談ホットライン

If you select "Easy Japanese," the sentences will be simple and will include furigana.
If you select "Add Hiragana", furigana will be added to the sentence.
You can select your native language and translate using "Language".

Details and application for The Specified Skills Evaluation Exam

Those taking the exam outside of Japan

★A blog for foreigners working in Japan★

  • 日本ではたらこう！

For companies, click here

  • Facebook（外国人向け日本語）
  • Facebook（ベトナム語）
  • Facebook（インドネシア語）
  • Youtube

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 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 can I become a "Specified Skilled Worker (i)"?

The way to become Specified Skilled Worker (i) depends on whether or not you have experience in technical training.

[No experience required]
Pass the following two exams:
1. "The Specified Skills (i) Evaluation Exam for Construction Industry" or "Skills Test Level 3"
② "Japan Foundation Japanese Language Basic Test" or "Japanese Language Proficiency Test N4 or above"
[Experienced]
Technical Intern Training (ii)
* "Successfully completing Technical Intern Training (ii)" means completing technical intern training for more than 2 years and 10 months and meeting one of the following requirements:1) Passing the practical exam for the Trade Skills Test Level 3 or the Technical Intern Training Evaluation Test (Specialist Level).
② Although you have not passed the practical examination of the Skill Test Level 3 or the Skill Intern Training Evaluation Test (Specialized Level), you are recognized as having “satisfactorily completed” Technical Intern Training (ii) based on an evaluation report prepared by the training provider that describes your attendance during the training, your progress in acquiring skills, your lifestyle, etc.

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

[Necessary requirements
The following two are required
(1) Certain work experience as a team leaderFor positions with CCUS competency evaluation criteria, the number of "working days" equivalent to Level 3 in the relevant job category (foreman + team leader) is required.
For positions that do not have competency evaluation criteria, "the number of working days (head of position + team leader) must be at least 3 years (645 working days)".
For details, please refer to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism document at 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 days worked as a foreman or team leader" required at Level 3 of the competency evaluation criteria, and a Level 3 determination is not necessarily required.
*If the CCUS Technician ID does not list work experience as a team leader, a "Field Reference Form No. 6-3, Exhibit, Background Certificate" should also be submitted.
It can be downloaded from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism page at the URL below.
https://www.mlit.go.jp/tochi_fudousan_kensetsugyo/tochi_fudousan_kensetsugyo_tk3_000001_00003.html

(2) Passing "The Specified Skills (ii) Evaluation Exam for Construction Industry" or "Proficiency Test Level 1Currently, there is no requirement for a Japanese language exam.
Details, "Policy on the Operation of the System Related to the Resident Status of Specified Skills in the Construction Sector." Please refer to Appendix 2 of the
Necessary procedures
Please submit the required documents to the Immigration and Immigration Management Agency. There are no documents to be submitted to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism.
Details, Immigration and Immigration Agency HP for more information.
*If a person currently working at Specified Skilled Worker (i) becomes Specified Skilled Worker (ii), he/she is required to report the "Report of Transition to No. 2" from the Foreign Work Management System.

Can "Specified Skilled Worker (ii)" also use JAC's job introduction service or FITS' native language consultation service?

JAC's free job introduction service is also available to "Specified Skilled Worker (ii)."
FITS native language consultation service is not available.

What is a "proficiency test"?

The "skill test" is an exam taken to obtain the "Specified Skills" residence status.
There are separate exams for Specified Skilled Worker (i) and type 2.
・Exam to become Specified Skilled Worker (i)
"Skills Test Level 3" or "The Specified Skills (i) Evaluation Exam for Construction Industry"
・Exam to become Specified Skilled Worker (ii)
"Skills Test Level 1" 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 two types of evaluation exams, "Type 1 Evaluation Exam" and "Type 2 Evaluation Exam", in three fields: "Civil Engineering", "Architecture", and "Lifelines and Facilities". Each exam consists of a written exam and a practical exam.
The exam will be conducted via computer-based CBT.
The content of the No. 1 evaluation test will be at the level of the Skill Test Level 3, and will require the skills and knowledge that a beginner-level technician should have.
The content of the No. 2 evaluation test will be at the level of the Skill Test Level 1, and will test the skills and knowledge that a senior skilled worker should possess.
For more details, The Specified Skills Evaluation Exam for Construction Industry page Please check.
We provide reference materials such as textbooks that explain the scope of the exam, sample questions, and textbooks translated into various languages.

What is the "Japanese Language Examination"?

The "Japanese Language Test" is a test that must be taken in order to obtain the "Specified Skills" residence status.
There are two types of exams to become a Specified Skilled Worker (i):
・ The Japan Foundation Basic Japanese Test
・ Japanese Language Proficiency Test N4 or above

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

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

If you took an exam in Japan held before December 2024, please see below.
Within about two weeks after the exam My Page You will receive the test results in this message.
If you pass, the pass certificate will be attached to the message. The PDF file of the pass certificate is the original, so please keep it in a safe place.
*We cannot answer inquiries regarding the test content or pass/fail results.

Please see the link below for instructions on how to check your messages from your My Page.
Check your exam results and certificate on "My Page"

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

The The Specified Skills Evaluation Exam for Construction Industry is being held in various locations throughout Japan. For details on the dates and locations, please see Test implementation information on the "Information and application for evaluation test for Specified Skills in the construction field" page Please check.
In addition, the "The Specified Skills (i) Evaluation Exam for Construction Industry" is also being conducted outside of Japan. For more information, Prometric website Please check.

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

The "The Specified Skills Evaluation Exam for Construction Industry" in Japan will be held as soon as the schedule is decided approximately two months in advance. Test implementation information on the "Information and application for evaluation test for Specified Skills in the construction field" page will be listed in the.
The "The Specified Skills (i) Evaluation Exam for Construction Industry" outside of Japan is Prometric website Please check.

What are the duties of specified skilled workers in the three work categories?

The main duties for each business category are as follows:
[Business classification: Civil engineering]
Formwork construction / concrete pumping / tunnel thrusting / construction machinery construction / earthworks / rebar construction / scaffolding / marine civil engineering / other work related to the construction, renovation, maintenance and repair of civil engineering facilities
[Business classification: Architecture]
Formwork construction / plastering / concrete pumping / roofing / earthworks / rebar construction / rebar joints / interior finishing / exterior fittings / scaffolding / architectural carpentry / architectural sheet metal / sprayed urethane insulation / other new construction, expansion, renovation, relocation, repair, remodeling or related work for buildings
[Business category: Lifelines and facilities]
Telecommunications, plumbing, building sheet metal, heat and cold insulation, and other work related to the maintenance, installation, modification, or repair of lifelines and facilities

For more details, see the "Guidelines for the Acceptance of specified skilled workers in Specific Fields - Standards for the Construction Field" (March 2019, compiled by the Ministry of Justice and the 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 training" is a training course taken by specified skilled workers.
specified skilled workers themselves will understand the acceptance status and protection system, and check whether companies are engaging in any fraudulent activities.
*The accepting company is required to have specified skilled workers take the course within about six months of accepting them. The implementing agency, FITS, will send the accepting company information such as the date, time and location, so please check with the company.

What is "FITS"?

We are an organization that supports the creation of appropriate working environments for specified skilled workers. We carry out the following activities:
・Hotline service to accept consultations in one's native language
・Visiting host companies for guidance, 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 are no educational requirements, but you must pass a Japanese language test and a skills test. In addition, specified skilled workers must be 18 years of age or older.

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

Even if specified skilled workers loses his/her job, he/she does not have to return to his/her home country immediately, and if he/she searches for a job, he/she can stay in Japan at least until the end of his/her period of stay. However, if he/she stays in Japan for more than three months without looking for a job, his/her status of residence may be revoked.

I want to become specified skilled workers. How should I find a job?

  • 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

I am about to finish my technical internship, but I was told that I cannot work at the same company. Can you introduce me to my next job?

  • If you complete your technical internship successfully, you will be able to continue working in Japan by transitioning to a "Specified Skills" status. JAC can introduce you to jobs free of charge, so please consult with someone at your company and apply through the "Technical Internship Graduate Job Search Form." (You cannot register yourself. Make sure to have someone at your company register you.)
  • ▼Companies register technical intern trainees▼
    Job application form for technical intern trainees

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