Employment for Skill Development Visa (育成就労)

The Ikusei Shuro (Employment for Skill Development) replaces Japan's Technical Intern Training Program, launching April 2027. It places foreign nationals in 17 designated sectors — nursing, construction, agriculture, food manufacturing, and others — under a certified employer for structured on-the-job training.

The visa runs for 3 years. Workers must pass JLPT N5 (CEFR A1) before entry and reach JLPT N4 by completion. No dependents or spouse work rights are permitted; completing the program opens a direct pathway to Specified Skilled Worker (Type 1) and ultimately to permanent residency.

This visa is ideal for foreign workers aged 18 or over seeking employer-sponsored training in Japan's labor-shortage industries with a clear route to long-term residency.