The Complete Guide to Hiring “Specified Skilled Workers” in Japan’s Construction Industry: CCUS & MLIT Requirements

The construction industry in Japan is facing a severe labor shortage, and the “Specified Skilled Worker” (SSW) program has become a vital solution. However, the process for the construction sector is significantly more complex than in other industries.

In addition to the standard Immigration Bureau application, employers must navigate unique requirements from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT). This guide explains the essential requirements and the workflow for a successful hire.

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What Makes Construction Different? The “Double Screening” Process

Hiring an SSW in construction requires clearing two different sets of hurdles.

Beyond Immigration: MLIT “Acceptance Plan” Approval

Unlike other sectors where only Immigration Bureau approval is needed, construction companies must first obtain approval for a “Construction SSW Acceptance Plan” from the MLIT.

You cannot apply for the visa until this plan is certified. Since the certification process can take several months, early preparation is critical.

Industry-Specific Rules: Monthly Salary and Fair Pay

The construction industry enforces strict labor conditions for SSW:

• Monthly Salary System: Wages must be paid as a fixed monthly salary. Daily or hourly wage systems are not permitted.
• Equal or Higher Pay: The worker must receive a salary equal to or higher than a Japanese worker in the same role.
• Clear Wage Progression: A system for pay raises based on skill improvement must be clearly defined.

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Specific Requirements for Employers

Companies must meet strict compliance standards to be eligible.

Mandatory CCUS (Construction Career Up System) Registration

The Construction Career Up System (CCUS) is the most crucial requirement unique to this sector.

• The Company must be registered.
• The SSW Worker must be registered.This system tracks the work history and skills of workers to ensure fair treatment.

Association Membership or MLIT Seminar

Employers must either join the “Japan Association for Construction Skill Training (JAC)” (directly or through an affiliated industry group) or attend a specific seminar designated by the MLIT.

Social Insurance and Labor Law Compliance

Full enrollment in social insurance (Health Insurance, Welfare Pension, and Unemployment Insurance) is mandatory. Furthermore, the company must have no history of major labor law violations within the past year.

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Eligibility Conditions for Foreign Workers

To obtain the “Specified Skilled Worker No. 1 (Construction)” status, candidates must meet one of the following:

Passing Skill and Japanese Language Exams

Candidates must pass the “Construction Industry SSW No. 1 Evaluation Exam” and a Japanese language proficiency test (N4 level or JFT-Basic).

Exemption for Technical Interns (TITP No. 2)

The most common route is for those who have successfully completed Technical Intern Training No. 2 in a related construction field. These individuals are exempt from the exams and can transition smoothly to the SSW status.

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Scope of Work for Construction SSW

Following the 2022 amendment, work categories have been streamlined for better flexibility.

Category	Main Scopes of Work
Civil Engineering	Formwork, Plastering, Concrete Pumping, Tunneling, Earthwork, etc.
Building Construction	Roofing, Interior Finishing, Sash Installation, Reinforcing Bar Construction, Painting, etc.
Lifelines & Equipment	Piping, Telecommunications, Electrical Work, etc.

Incidental Tasks at the Site

Workers are allowed to perform incidental tasks such as transporting materials, cleaning, and site organization, provided these tasks are related to their main duties. However, performing only incidental tasks throughout the day is prohibited.

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Conclusion: Compliance is Key. Let Experts Handle Your Construction Visa

The SSW program for construction involves a massive amount of paperwork and requires dealing with two different government bodies: MLIT and the Immigration Bureau.

Professional Support for Complex Requirements

Many companies struggle with CCUS registration or have their Acceptance Plans rejected due to minor errors. Any delay in the process directly impacts your project timelines and manpower planning.

Nationwide Support via Online Consultations

Based in Osaka, Ishinagi Office specializes in construction-related SSW visa applications. We provide streamlined support for everything from CCUS registration to MLIT certification for construction companies nationwide via online services.

If you are looking to solve labor shortages while ensuring full legal compliance, contact us for a professional consultation.

Ishinagi Administrative Scrivener Office

If you would like to renew or change your work visa quickly and reliably, or if you feel uncertain about the application process, please feel free to consult with our office in Yodogawa-ku, Osaka. We provide support for clients from all over Japan, making use of our extensive experience in dealing with the Immigration Bureau.

If you wish to proceed with your work visa renewal or change of status smoothly and with confidence, please do not hesitate to contact us.

▶ Click here to see our fee schedule

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