SSW field councils (kyogikai): membership and timing
By: Watari Editorial Team·Last updated: 2026-07-08
Employers hiring Specified Skilled Workers are generally required to join their field's council (bunya-betsu kyogikai). Membership is a prerequisite for accepting workers, with timing and contact points set by field. Not joining can obstruct hiring and residence procedures, so check early. Details are updated by field; confirm the latest with the competent ministry.
What a field council is
A framework for each designated industry field, made up of accepting employers and relevant ministries. It exists for proper operation of the system and for necessary information-sharing. Employers accepting SSW workers are generally expected to become members.
Why membership matters
Employers accepting SSW workers are generally required to be members of the relevant field's council. Without membership, hiring and residence procedures can be obstructed. Check the membership requirement early, when you first consider hiring.
Timing of joining
Depending on the field, you may need to join 'before the first acceptance' or 'within a set period after acceptance'. Getting the timing wrong can stall procedures, so always check the field's operational guidelines.
Field-specific points (examples)
Contact points and requirements differ by field. Construction in particular may have added requirements such as a construction-business license and joining JAC (Japan Association for Construction Human Resources). Care, food service, accommodation and others each have their own requirements — check each field's council page.
How to join
Most applications are online, with documents and steps differing by field. Working with a registered support organization and administrative scrivener helps you handle council membership and the rest of the acceptance procedures smoothly. Watari coordinates with the Japan-side structure and supports you through the procedures.
FAQ
- Can we hire SSW workers without joining a council?
- Membership in the relevant field's council is generally required. Without it, hiring and residence procedures can be obstructed.
- When should we join?
- By field: 'before first acceptance' or 'within a set period after acceptance'. Confirm the field's guidelines and competent ministry.
- Is construction different?
- Construction may have added requirements such as a construction-business license and JAC membership.
- Is there a fee to join?
- It varies by field; some fields have membership fees. Confirm with the competent ministry and relevant bodies.
This page is general reference information. Council requirements, timing and fees differ by field and may change. Confirm the latest and accurate information with each field's competent ministry.