The Specified Skilled Worker (SSW / 特定技能) "Accommodation" visa lets you work full-time at hotels and ryokan in Japan. With the industry facing a serious labor shortage, more and more properties are actively hiring international staff on this visa.
The 2 requirements
- Pass the Accommodation Industry Skills Test (宿泊業技能測定試験)
- Pass JLPT N4 or higher (or JFT-Basic)
If you completed Technical Intern Training (ii) in the accommodation field, the exams are waived.
What work is allowed — and not allowed
Allowed: front desk, planning & PR, guest service, restaurant service — accommodation services in general.
Not allowed: being hired only for cleaning or serving as simple labor (doing them as part of broader duties is fine). Work at adult-entertainment-related facilities is also prohibited.
Pay standards
By law, SSW workers must be paid the same or more than Japanese staff in the same role. The market rate in accommodation is ¥200,000–260,000/month. Many jobs include staff housing and meals — a big plus for keeping living costs low.
Can you change jobs?
Yes, within the same "Accommodation" field. A change of status application to immigration is required, so file after your new job is confirmed.
Tips for finding the right job
- Choose postings that explicitly say "SSW (Accommodation) accepted" — a sign the employer is properly set up
- Check whether a Registered Support Organization (登録支援機関) provides support
- Compare beyond salary: staff housing, meal support and other conditions matter
Browse SSW (Accommodation) jobs
FAQ
Q. Can my family come with me? A. Family accompaniment is not permitted on SSW type 1.
Q. How many years can I work? A. SSW type 1 allows up to 5 years total. The accommodation field now allows transition to SSW type 2 (no time limit, family accompaniment allowed), so a long-term career is possible.