Specified Skilled Worker (i) and (ii)
The Specified Skilled Worker visa (特定技能) has two types. Type (i) (特定技能1号) is for work that needs a certain level of skill. Type (ii) (特定技能2号) is for work that needs a higher, expert level of skill.
(i) and (ii) at a glance
| Type (i) | Type (ii) | |
|---|---|---|
| Fields | 19 fields | 11 of the 19 fields |
| Period of stay | Up to 3 years each time. Up to 5 years in total, as a rule | 3 years, 2 years, 1 year or 6 months each time |
| Family | Not allowed, as a rule | Allowed (spouse and children) |
| Support | Your employer must support you (10 kinds) | Not required |
Check your own case
- You can only work in the field and for the employer written on your designation (指定書), the paper you receive with your residence card.
- As a rule, the 5 years of Type (i) also count time without a job and time out of Japan with a re-entry permit. To check how long you have stayed, you can request your own entry and departure records (開示請求).
- You do not have to go through Type (i) to get Type (ii). The test differs by field.
The list of fields, the tests and the rules for each field are on the official Specified Skilled Worker website (13 languages). This guide focuses on checking your job and your support.
Sources
- Immigration Services Agency: Operational guidelines for accepting Specified Skilled Workers (August 2026, Japanese)
- Specified Skilled Worker official website
Last checked: October 11, 2026