SSW Skill Test Guide — How to Pass the Specified Skilled Worker Skill Evaluation Test by Sector

To get the Specified Skilled Worker visa, you need to clear two tests in your target field: the Japanese language test (JFT-Basic or JLPT N4) and the skill evaluation test for your sector. The skill test is what proves you can actually do the job — not just speak Japanese about it.

Each currently-operating SSW field runs its own skill evaluation test, with its own format, schedule, syllabus, and pass mark. As of January 23, 2026 the Cabinet approved adding three new fields — Linen Supply, Logistics Warehouse, and Resource Circulation — bringing the total to 19 SSW fields. The 16 existing fields' tests remain operational; the three new fields' tests are still in preparation and are expected to start around 2027. Note also that the Food Service Industry test has been suspended since April 2026 (see Sector-by-Sector Pointers). This guide explains how the skill tests work in general, lists the 16 currently-operating fields and which body administers each, walks you through registration and preparation, and gives sector-by-sector pointers so you can plan realistically for the test in your target field.

What Is the SSW Skill Test?

The skill evaluation test is a sector-specific exam that measures whether you have the practical knowledge and skills to immediately work in your target SSW field in Japan. It is one of the two academic requirements for the SSW Type 1 visa, alongside the Japanese language test.

Unlike a general academic test, the skill test focuses on workplace-relevant knowledge: tools, safety rules, hygiene standards, customer service practices, basic technical operations — whatever the field actually requires from a new front-line worker.

The 16 SSW Fields and Their Tests

The SSW program currently operates skill tests in 16 fields. (Three additional fields — Linen Supply, Logistics Warehouse, and Resource Circulation — were added by Cabinet decision on January 23, 2026 and bring the total to 19, but their tests are still being prepared and are expected to launch around 2027.) Each operating field is supervised by a different ministry and uses its own evaluation test:

Four additional fields — Automobile Transport, Railway, Forestry, and Wood Industry — were added in the March 2024 Cabinet decision. Their tests are still being rolled out internationally and may currently be available only in Japan or in a limited number of countries. Always check the official site for your target field for the latest country availability.

Test Format — What to Expect

Most SSW skill tests are CBT (Computer-Based Test) taken at an approved testing center, similar in style to JFT-Basic. Some fields also include a practical / demonstration component — for example, Nursing Care can include practical care procedures, and Construction tests often have a hands-on portion.

Common features:

• Question types: multiple choice, true/false, sometimes ordering steps in the right sequence.
• Test length: typically 60–80 minutes for the written portion.
• Pass mark: usually around 65% of full marks, but varies by field. Some tests have separate pass marks for general knowledge and practical sections.
• Language of the test: in many countries the test is offered in the local language as well as Japanese; in Japan it is typically Japanese.
• Result delivery: PDF certificate via the candidate's My Page, usually within several business days to a few weeks depending on field.

Where the Tests Are Held

SSW skill tests are held at approved testing centers in:

• Japan — CBT centers in major cities; required for foreign workers already in Japan transitioning to SSW.
• Major sending countries — including the Philippines, Indonesia, Vietnam, Myanmar, Cambodia, Nepal, Mongolia, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Uzbekistan, and others.

Coverage by country varies by field. The most globally available tests are Nursing Care, Food Service, Building Cleaning, Food Manufacturing, Accommodation, and Agriculture. Newer fields (e.g., Forestry, Wood Industry, Railway) may currently be available only in Japan, with overseas centers added gradually. Always check the official site for your specific field and country.

How to Register

Test Fees

Fees vary by field, country, and currency. Rough ranges:

• Most CBT-style tests: equivalent of about US$30–US$80 per attempt overseas.
• In Japan: typically around ¥7,000–¥15,000 depending on field and whether a practical component is included.
• Tests with practical/demonstration components (e.g., construction, some nursing care formats) may cost more, especially when held in Japan.

Fees are non-refundable once you have completed registration, except in narrow cases such as cancellation of the session by the organizer.

How to Prepare — Study Materials

Each field publishes its own study guide and sample questions. The most reliable source is always the official supervising ministry or the body that runs the test. Generic preparation tips:

• Download the official study guide / syllabus for your field from the supervising ministry website. This lists exactly what the test covers.
• Do all official sample questions at least twice. They are the closest predictor of the real test.
• Use field-specific study apps and YouTube channels in your language, but verify against the official syllabus — some unofficial materials are out of date.
• Practice in Japanese terminology even if your test is in your native language. Workplace vocabulary will be in Japanese once you start the job.
• If your placement agency or future support organization offers a prep course, use it — many provide free or low-cost field-specific training.

Sector-by-Sector Pointers

Nursing Care

The largest SSW field. Tests cover basic care knowledge (body mechanics, mobility assistance, hygiene, infection control), communication with care recipients, and observation/recording. Plus you must pass the separate Nursing Care Japanese Test on top of JFT-Basic / JLPT N4.

Food Service Industry

The Food Service Industry test covers food hygiene (HACCP basics), customer service, kitchen safety, and basic restaurant operations.

Food & Beverage Manufacturing

Covers food safety, hygiene management, packaging, basic machinery operation, and quality control in food manufacturing settings. One of the largest fields by hiring volume.

Building Cleaning

Covers cleaning chemicals, equipment (vacuum, polisher, scrubber), safety in commercial buildings, and basic floor / restroom / window cleaning techniques. Often includes a practical demonstration component.

Construction

Construction was reorganized from 19 narrow specialties into 3 broad business categories: Civil Engineering, Building Construction, and Lifeline & Equipment. The Construction SSW Type 1 Evaluation Test is now structured around these 3 categories and administered by JAC (Japan Association for Construction Human Resources) at Prometric centres, consisting of a written (CBT) section plus a practical section. Note: SSW Construction has stricter acceptance rules than many other SSW fields — including a direct-employment requirement, mandatory JAC membership, mandatory enrolment in the Construction Career Up System (CCUS), and prior authorisation of a Construction Specific Skilled Worker Acceptance Plan by the Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism. Paid employment placement is also prohibited by law in the construction sector under the Employment Security Act, so TGP does not place workers in construction work.

Industrial Manufacturing

Covers machine operation, basic blueprint reading, quality control, safety, and workplace 5S in manufacturing plants. Subdivided into specialties (machining, painting, welding, plastic molding, etc.).

Accommodation

Covers front desk operations, customer service in Japanese hospitality style (omotenashi), basic room operations, complaint handling, and emergency response. Strong overlap with food service in customer-facing skills.

Agriculture

Two streams: cultivation (vegetables, fruits, rice, etc.) and livestock (cattle, pigs, chickens, etc.). Covers basic farming operations, machinery safety, animal welfare, and seasonal work patterns.

Fishery

Two streams: fishing (vessels, gear, navigation safety basics) and aquaculture (fish farming, water quality, feeding, harvesting).

Automobile Repair

Covers basic vehicle inspection, tire/brake/oil maintenance, electrical system basics, and shop safety. Includes practical components in many test cycles.

Newly added 2024 fields (Forestry, Wood Industry, Railway, Automobile Transport)

These four fields were added in the March 2024 Cabinet decision and have more limited overseas test availability. If you target one of these, plan for the possibility that you may need to take the test in Japan, or wait for your country's overseas test centers to come online. Note: Automobile Transport additionally requires the candidate to obtain a Japanese driver's license (Class 2 for bus/taxi, Class 1 for truck), and bus/taxi drivers also require JLPT N3 or equivalent — substantially higher than the standard SSW Japanese requirement.

Exemptions — When You Don't Need to Take It

If you have successfully completed Technical Intern Training (Number 2) — meaning 2 years and 10 months or longer of training with the required attendance and skill acquisition — you are exempt from the Japanese language test for the SSW Type 1 visa regardless of whether the SSW field matches your previous TITP field (per Immigration Services Agency official FAQ). You are also exempt from the SSW skill test, but only when the SSW field you want to enter is officially mapped as related to your prior TITP field. If the SSW field differs from your TITP field, you must still pass that SSW field's skill test. Check the supervising ministry's published list of recognised TITP-to-SSW transitions to confirm whether the skill test waiver applies in your case. Note: candidates entering the Nursing Care SSW field must still pass the separate Nursing Care Japanese Test even if exempt from JFT-Basic / JLPT.

Even if you are exempt from the skill test, you may still need to:

• Provide your training completion certificate during the visa application.
• Apply through a recognised employer / registered support organization.
• Meet other SSW conditions such as health, criminal record, and (for SSW1) a support plan.

If You Don't Pass

Pass rates vary widely by field and country. Some fields routinely see 60–70% pass rates among well-prepared first-time takers; others (often new or technical fields) are lower. If you don't pass:

• You can usually retake the test. Waiting periods and retake rules vary by field and test provider — many fields simply require you to wait until the next scheduled test session. (Note: the 45-day retake rule commonly cited applies to JFT-Basic, not most skill tests.) Each attempt requires a new fee.
• Review your score breakdown if available, and focus on the weakest area before your next attempt.
• Consider a different SSW field if your skills genuinely match elsewhere — switching to a more accessible field (food service, food manufacturing, accommodation) is a valid path for many candidates.
• Ask your placement agency or support organization for tailored preparation. Many provide free or low-cost prep courses.

After You Pass — Next Steps

Passing the skill test is one of two academic requirements for the SSW Type 1 visa. After passing, you still need to:

1. Pass the Japanese language test — JFT-Basic (200+) or JLPT N4 or higher (if not already done).
2. Find a Japanese employer approved to hire SSW workers in your field.
3. Apply for the SSW Type 1 visa — via Certificate of Eligibility at a Japanese embassy/consulate, or via change of status of residence if already in Japan.

TGP supports SSW candidates and workers across these steps. For job matching we operate under a paid employment placement license (license number 13-ユ-317879). For visa-related procedures we work together with our group's affiliated Tree Administrative Scrivener Corporation. Note: SSW Construction has a direct-employment requirement, so we do not place workers in construction.

Frequently Asked Questions

Summary

The SSW skill test is your direct proof to a Japanese employer (and to Immigration) that you can do the job from day one. With the official syllabus, sample questions, and a few months of focused preparation, the test is achievable for most motivated candidates. Combined with JFT-Basic or JLPT N4 and a verified employer offer, you are ready to apply for the SSW Type 1 visa.