What is Specified Skilled Worker (ii)? Differences from (i), fields, family
By: Watari Editorial Team·Last updated: 2026-07-08
Specified Skilled Worker (ii) is a status of residence for more highly skilled foreign workers. Unlike (i), there is no cap on renewing the period of stay, and — if requirements are met — family (spouse and children) may accompany the worker. Fields expanded from 2023. It is an important option for employers looking at long-term employment and retention. Details are updated during operation; confirm the latest with the Immigration Services Agency.
What SSW (ii) is
A status requiring a higher skill level than (i). Its key features: no cap on renewing the period of stay (long-term employment is possible), and family accompaniment (spouse, children) when requirements are met. For employers, it enables long-term retention of skilled workers.
Main differences from (i)
The period of stay for (i) is capped at five years total; (ii) has no renewal cap. Family accompaniment is generally not allowed for (i), but is possible for (ii) when requirements are met. Support by a registered support organization is required for (i) but not obligatory for (ii). The skill level required for (ii) is higher.
Covered fields
Following the 2023 Cabinet decision, covered fields expanded. Preparation is proceeding so that (ii) exists for many SSW (i) fields except nursing care. For care, there is a separate 'Care' status of residence. Operation differs by field, so confirm the latest information.
Moving from (i) to (ii)
A test confirming expert-level skills by field, and a certain amount of practical experience, are generally required. Requirements are set per field and are specified/updated during operation. You can plan toward (ii) while working as (i).
Path toward permanent residence
Time spent under SSW (ii) may relate to the requirements for a permanent-residence application (such as continuous years of residence). It benefits both employer and worker for long-term retention and career formation. Permanent residence is subject to a separate review.
What it means for employers
Being able to offer an (i)→(ii) career path makes hiring and training investment easier to recover and supports long-term retention of skilled workers. Watari sends workers primarily from Cambodia and offers free consultations for long-term-oriented hiring.
FAQ
- Can SSW (ii) workers bring family?
- Yes, spouse and children may accompany when requirements are met. This is generally not allowed for (i).
- Which fields are covered by (ii)?
- Coverage expanded from 2023 to many (i) fields except nursing care. Care has a separate 'Care' status. Confirm field-by-field operation with the latest information.
- Can (ii) lead to permanent residence?
- Time under (ii) may relate to continuous-residence requirements for permanent residence, but PR is a separate review.
- How do workers move from (i) to (ii)?
- By meeting field-specific requirements such as an expert-skills test and practical experience.
This page is general reference information. SSW (ii) operation is still being specified by field. Confirm the latest and accurate information with official sources (Immigration Services Agency).