About Specific Skills
The Specified Skilled Worker program allows foreign nationals with proven skills and Japanese language ability to work in Japan in selected industries facing labor shortages. It offers a legal pathway for employment in fields such as caregiving, agriculture, construction, and more.
Why Hire Skilled Workers from Nepal?
1. Young and Growing Workforce
Nepal has a large population of young people actively seeking overseas employment. Many are motivated, physically fit, and eager to gain international experience—making them ideal candidates for labor-intensive and service-based roles in Japan.
2. Strong Interest in Japan
Japanese language, culture, and work values are widely respected in Nepal. Thousands of students enroll in Japanese language institutes each year, preparing for JLPT and JFT exams. Many dream of building a life and career in Japan, which creates a pool of dedicated and culturally aware candidates.
3. Government-Level Collaboration
Nepal and Japan have signed a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) on sending and accepting specified skilled workers. This bilateral agreement ensures a clear, ethical, and official process for recruitment, protecting both workers and employers.
4. Growing Pool of Certified Workers
Every year, more Nepali candidates are passing SSW-related exams in caregiving, food service,
agriculture, and hospitality. This trend is expected to grow as more training centers and exam
opportunities become available in Nepal.
In short, Nepal offers dedicated workers, smooth recruitment channels, and long-term
potential—making it an ideal partner for Japan's SSW program.
Current Skill Exam Areas in Nepal
“Nursing”
The work that can be entrusted to the specific skill "caregiving" is physical care and other support work associated with it. For example, in addition to physical care such as assistance with bathing, eating, and excretion, you can also carry out recreational activities and assist with functional training.
“Agriculture”
The specific skill "agriculture" is one of the 12 specific skills fields where there is a serious labor shortage. Foreign human resources who have a certain level of expertise and skills and can immediately contribute can work in the livestock farming, farming, crop production etc...
“Accommodation”
The specific skill "accommodation" is one of the 12 specific skills fields where there is a serious labor shortage. Foreign human resources who have a certain level of expertise and skills and can immediately contribute can work in the accommodation industry, working at the front desk, planning and public relations, customer service etc...
The Process of Accepting Specific Skilled Workers from Nepal
1. Find Qualified Candidates
- Japanese companies contact a licensed manpower agency in Nepal.
- The agency finds candidates who have passed:
- The Skill Test (for a specific job field)
- The Japanese Language Test (JFT Basic or JLPT N4)
2. Sign Job Contract
- The employer and worker sign a clear employment contract in both Japanese and Nepali.
- It includes details like salary, job duties, working hours, and housing.
3. Get Approval from Nepal Government
- The Japanese employer applies for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) from the immigration office in Japan.
- After approval, the COE is sent to Nepal.
4. Get Approval from Japan
- The Japanese employer applies for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) from the immigration office in Japan.
- After approval, the COE is sent to Nepal.
5. Visa and Preparation
- The worker applies for an SSW visa at the Japanese Embassy in Nepal.
- They also:
- Take a medical check
- Attend cultural and pre-departure training
6. Travel and Start Work in Japan
- The agency arranges the flight and documents.
- After arriving in Japan, the employer:
- Helps with registration, insurance, and housing
- Provides workplace orientation
Accepting Nepalese Already Living in Japan
Nepalese nationals currently residing in Japan (e.g., students or technical interns) may also be eligible to change their visa status to SSW if they:
- Pass the required exams
- Meet the required qualifications
- Have a valid residence status
Important Notes When Hiring Nepalese SSW Workers
While it is technically possible for companies in Japan to hire Nepali workers directly,
the process is often complicated and difficult to manage alone. As a result, most
employers choose to work with local dispatch agencies or certified support organizations
for assistance.
However, not all agencies operate ethically. Some groups, including those that run
Japanese language schools in Nepal, claim to assist with SSW visa applications but
instead charge students excessive fees without proper oversight.
Unfortunately, there have been cases where Nepali workers arrived in Japan already
burdened with heavy debts due to these exploitative practices. This can cause serious
issues in the workplace and affect long-term performance and stability.
To avoid such risks, it's essential for employers to partner with trustworthy and
government-approved recruitment agencies that follow transparent and fair procedures.
Leave the introduction of specific Nepalese to "Hayabusa"
Hayabusa, a leading sending agency in Nepal, uses its years of trust and collaboration to source skilled workers only from dependable local partners. Supported by our Japan office and an on-site Nepalese interpreter, we make the entire process effortless. Our expertise lies in providing workers for nursing care and restaurant roles. For details on skilled visas or hiring Nepalese staff, Hayabusa is here to help.
