How to Apply for the SSW Visa from India: Step by Step
The full application path from India — choosing a field, passing the tests, finding an employer, and getting your visa.
May 30, 2026
The SSW process has a clear order. Do these steps in sequence and you'll avoid the most common mistakes.
Step 1 — Choose your field. Pick one of the 16 SSW fields based on your background and where demand is highest (nursing care, food service, construction, agriculture, and building cleaning are the busiest). Your skills test is field-specific, so decide before you study.
Step 2 — Pass the Japanese test. Reach JFT-Basic A2 or JLPT N4. In India, JFT-Basic is delivered by Prometric at centres in Bengaluru, Gurgaon (Delhi NCR), and Guwahati; you book online and pay the fee at registration. JLPT N4 is offered through the usual JLPT exam centres in India.
Step 3 — Pass the skills test. Take the skills evaluation test for your chosen field. Some are held in India; others are taken in Japan or via Prometric — check current availability for your field.
Step 4 — Find a sponsoring employer. You need a genuine job offer from a Japanese employer who will sponsor you. Use reputable channels: registered recruiters, the employer's own hiring, or government-linked matching schemes. Be cautious of "agents" promising guaranteed jobs for large upfront fees.
Step 5 — Certificate of Eligibility (COE). Your employer applies to Japanese immigration for a COE on your behalf. This is the document that confirms you meet the requirements.
Step 6 — Apply for the visa. With the COE, apply for the SSW visa at the Embassy/Consulate of Japan in India (or an authorised visa centre). Submit your passport, COE, photos, and forms.
Step 7 — Travel and settle in. Enter Japan, complete residence registration, and your employer's required support (housing help, orientation) kicks in.
Timeline: realistically a few months to over a year, depending mostly on how fast you reach N4/JFT-Basic and find an employer. Watch for fraud: legitimate SSW placement does not require paying lakhs in "guarantee" fees — see what it actually costs.
Background: SSW requirements · the full guide to working in Japan from India.