SSW vs. Technical Intern Training: What’s the Difference?
If you're looking to work in Japan, you might have come across two options: the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) visa and the Technical Intern Training Program (TITP). Both are designed for foreign workers, but they serve different purposes and offer different long-term possibilities. In this article, we’ll break down the main differences between these two systems and help you decide which one suits your goals.
What is the Technical Intern Training Program?
The Technical Intern Training Program (TITP) was created in the 1990s to help workers from developing countries gain practical skills in Japan. It is not technically a work visa—it’s a training-based program that allows interns to learn skills they can bring back to their home country.
Key Features of the Technical Intern Program:
- Duration: 1 to 5 years (divided into levels: basic, intermediate, advanced)
- Job fields: Agriculture, construction, manufacturing, food processing, etc.
- Usually managed by sending/receiving organizations (OTIT-certified)
- Goal: Skill transfer, not long-term employment
- Limited ability to change jobs or employers
What is the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) Visa?
Launched in 2019, the SSW visa allows foreign workers with certain skills to work in Japan legally. Unlike the intern program, the SSW visa is a true employment visa that gives more freedom and better legal protections.
Key Features of the SSW Visa:
- Duration: Up to 5 years (Type 1); renewable or upgradeable to Type 2
- Job fields: 12 designated sectors with labor shortages
- No sending/receiving organizations involved—apply directly to companies
- Goal: Real employment, not just training
- Ability to change employers within the same industry
Comparison Table: SSW vs. Technical Intern
| Category | Technical Intern Training | SSW Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Training and skill development | Employment and labor support |
| Legal Status | Not a work visa (training program) | Legal working visa |
| Duration | Up to 5 years | Up to 5 years (Type 1), renewable |
| Job Change | Not allowed | Allowed within the same field |
| Family Accompaniment | Not allowed | Only under Type 2 |
| Management | Through sending and supervising organizations | Direct contract with the employer |
| Language Requirement | Not mandatory | Required (usually JLPT N4 or JFT-Basic) |
| Transition to Other Visas | Can switch to SSW if qualified | Can apply for Type 2 or others |
Which One Should You Choose?
Here’s how to decide:
- If you're just starting and want to gain experience: Internship Program
- If you already have some skills and want to work long-term: SSW Visa
- If you want more freedom and rights as a worker: SSW Visa
Can You Move from Technical Intern to SSW?
Yes! In fact, many workers who complete 3 years of technical internship are eligible to switch to an SSW visa in the same industry. This allows you to stay in Japan, earn better wages, and have more work flexibility.
Final Thoughts
Both the Technical Intern Program and the SSW visa offer valuable paths to gain experience and income in Japan. However, their goals and worker rights are different. If your goal is long-term work and stability, the SSW visa is usually the better option. Whichever path you choose, make sure to research carefully and prepare well.
Want to learn more? Check out our guides on how to pass the SSW skill and language tests, or how to find a job under the SSW program!
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