Technical Intern Training to Specified Skilled Worker Transition
Choosing between the exam-exempt and exam routes
Foreign nationals who completed Technical Intern Training Level 2 can transition to Specified Skilled Worker 1 with exemptions from both the skills evaluation test and Japanese language test. Transitioning within the same field is the smoothest route. Note that in 2027 the Technical Intern Training system is planned to transition to 'Ikusei Shuro,' and current technical intern trainees need to understand the impact of this change.
Who this is for: Foreign nationals who have completed or are about to complete Technical Intern Training Level 2 and wish to continue working in Japan.
Latest Law Amendments
The 'Ikusei Shuro Act' was enacted in June 2024, with the transition from Technical Intern Training to Ikusei Shuro scheduled for around 2027. Ikusei Shuro is a system aimed at 'human resource development' and 'labor force securing,' targeting acquisition of Specified Skilled Worker 1 through 1–3 years of employment. The biggest change is the 'liberalization of employer changes in principle,' with employer transfers expected to be allowed under certain conditions.
Case-by-Case Review Points & Strategies
Case 1: Transition Within Same Field (Exam Exempt)
Low RiskSituation
Completed Technical Intern Training Level 2 in food manufacturing and transitioning to Specified Skilled Worker 1 in the same food manufacturing field
Strategy
Prepare Technical Intern Training completion certificate, skill evaluation test certificate, employment contract (new accepting company), and status change application. If the current training company and new employer are the same, the process is even simpler.
Key Point: Submit the transition application before the technical intern training period expires. Applications are needed within 60 days of completing training; exceeding this may void the exam exemption benefit.
Case 2: Transitioning to a Different Field (Must Take Exams)
ModerateSituation
After completing Technical Intern Training Level 2 in sewing, wishing to transition to Specified Skilled Worker 1 in the food service industry
Strategy
Must pass the skills evaluation test for the target field and a Japanese language test (JLPT N4+ or JFT-Basic). Search for a new employer while studying for exams. Skills evaluation test schedules and locations differ by field — check schedules early.
Key Point: Passing the exam is a prerequisite for cross-field transition. Testing opportunities are limited to a few times per year depending on the field — plan the exam schedule carefully.
Case 3: Transition to Ikusei Shuro System (From 2027)
ModerateSituation
The Technical Intern Training system will be abolished in 2027 and replaced by 'Ikusei Shuro.' How should current trainees adapt under the new system?
Strategy
Those who complete the current Technical Intern Training Level 2 are expected to have transitional measures allowing the conventional path to Specified Skilled Worker during the transition period (around 2027–2032). Ikusei Shuro is a system aimed at transitioning to Specified Skilled Worker 1 in 1–3 years, with greater freedom to change employers than before.
Key Point: Under the new system from 2027, freedom to change employers is expected to be realized alongside skill acquisition. Current trainees are advised to consult a specialist for the latest information before the details of Ikusei Shuro are finalized.
Common Mistakes & Pitfalls
Proceeding with transition without verifying the correspondence between the technical intern training occupation/task name and the Specified Skilled Worker field can result in the exam exemption not being applied. Check the correspondence table published by the Immigration Services Agency in advance.
Misconduct during the technical intern training period (unauthorized employment, disappearance, etc.) may restrict transition to Specified Skilled Worker. Compliance with rules during training is a prerequisite for obtaining SSW status.
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