Many foreign workers believe that once they have a Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) visa, they can freely change jobs.This is only partially true.
The SSW system allows job changes, but only under strict conditions and procedures.
Understanding these rules is essential to protect your legal status in Japan.

 

When Changing Jobs Is Allowed

 

In general, changing jobs is allowed if you can continue working as an immediate contributor under the SSW system.
If you move to another company within the same industrial field, such as from one food manufacturing company to another food manufacturing company, you can change jobs without taking another skills test.
If you want to change to a different industrial field, you must pass the skills evaluation test for the new field in advance.
In most cases, you do not need to retake the Japanese language test if you are already working under SSW, except for special requirements in fields such as caregiving.
Your new employer must also meet all legal requirements, including proper wages, social insurance enrollment, and an approved support system.

 

When Changing Jobs Is Not Allowed

 

There are clear situations where job changes are not permitted.
You cannot change to a job that is outside the SSW-designated industries, such as general office work or convenience store jobs.
You also cannot move to a different field without passing the required skills test.
Another common problem is failing to complete immigration procedures.
When you change jobs, you must submit notifications to immigration within 14 days. Forgetting this step can seriously affect your next visa renewal.

 

An Important Difference from Other Work Visas

 

One critical point many people misunderstand is that, even when changing jobs within the same field, SSW holders must apply for a Change of Status of Residence.
Although the visa category name does not change, SSW permission is granted for a specific employer, which is written on an official document called a Designation Form attached to your passport.
When your employer changes, immigration must review the new company and issue a new designation.
This is a procedural requirement, not a penalty, but it is mandatory.

 

The Correct Procedure for Changing Jobs

 

First, you must receive a formal job offer and sign an employment contract with the new company.
Next, you and your new employer submit an application for Change of Status of Residence to immigration.
You must not start working for the new company until approval is granted and you receive your new residence card and designation form.
During this waiting period, you may remain unemployed. However, staying unemployed for a long time can create immigration risks, so careful planning is important.
In addition, you must submit notifications about the termination of your old contract and the start of the new one within 14 days.

 

Practical Advice

 

Changing jobs under the SSW system is a legitimate right, especially when seeking better working conditions or career growth.
However, the greatest risk comes from starting work before permission is granted or skipping procedures.
If you are unsure, always confirm whether your skills certificates allow the job change you are considering before resigning.

 

Final Thoughts

 

The SSW system offers flexibility, but only to those who follow the rules carefully.
With correct preparation and timing, changing jobs can be a positive step toward a stable future in Japan.

 

If you are thinking about obtaining, changing, or renewing your residence status (VISA), please consult our office.
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特定技能（SSW）の在留資格を持っていると、「自由に転職できる」と思われがちですが、これは半分正解で半分誤解です。特定技能では転職は可能ですが、
厳格な条件と手続きが定められています。

 

転職が認められるケース

 

原則として、即戦力として働き続けられることが条件です。同じ分野内での転職（例：飲食料品製造業から同業他社へ）であれば、追加試験なしで転職できます。
別分野へ転職する場合は、転職先分野の技能試験に合格している必要があります。
また、転職先の会社が、給与・社会保険・支援体制などの基準を満たしていることも必須です。

 

転職できないケース

 

特定技能の対象外職種への転職はできません。また、試験に合格していない別分野への転職も認められません。さらに、転職時の届出を忘れると、次回の更新や在留継続に大きな影響が出ます。

 

他の就労ビザとの大きな違い

 

特定技能では、同じ分野への転職であっても在留資格変更許可申請が必要です。これは、特定技能が「特定の会社で働くこと」を前提に許可されており、パスポートの指定書に会社名が記載されているためです。

 

正しい転職手続きの流れ

 

まず新しい会社から内定をもらい、雇用契約を結びます。次に、入管へ在留資格変更許可申請を行います。許可が出る前に新しい会社で働くことはできません。
許可待ちの間は無職になりますが、無職期間が長くなるとリスクが高まるため、計画的な行動が重要です。
また、前後それぞれ14日以内に「契約に関する届出」を提出する必要があります。

 

実務的なアドバイス

 

特定技能の転職で最も多いトラブルは、「同じ仕事だから大丈夫」と思って先に働いてしまうケースです。転職は正当な権利ですが、必ず「許可が出てから初出勤」を守ってください。

 

まとめ

 

特定技能制度は、正しく使えばキャリアアップのチャンスになります。ルールを理解し、準備を整えることが、日本で安定して働き続けるための鍵になります。