Japan adds 5-year Specified Skilled Worker Type 2 stays starting Jan. 7
| Current | 3 years |
|---|---|
| Proposed (Jan 2027) | 5 years |
Japan currently grants Specified Skilled Worker (Type 2) holders up to three years at a time, but a draft ordinance would add a five-year stay period from early January 2027.
Draft rules remain pending
The Immigration Services Agency released the draft Aug. 4, starting a public comment and finalization process before the planned rollout. Detailed eligibility conditions for receiving a five-year period haven’t been published.
The proposal isn’t in effect. Type 2 holders whose status expires before implementation must renew under the current rules rather than wait for the five-year option.
Five years would be a single grant, not a total limit
Immigration officials currently issue Type 2 periods of six months, one year, two years or three years, depending on factors such as employment stability and continuity. The draft would add five years to that list, reducing how often qualifying workers and their employers must handle renewals.
Type 2 status would remain renewable without a total stay limit, provided the holder continues meeting its employment and residency conditions. Spouses and children can accompany Type 2 workers under dependent status.
The longer grant could matter for permanent residence applicants. Current guidelines generally require applicants to hold the longest available stay period under their status, so a five-year Type 2 grant would satisfy that condition once it becomes available.
Most nomads and tourists aren’t covered
Specified Skilled Worker (Type 2) is tied to advanced work in designated industries and generally requires employment with a Japanese company. It isn’t intended for remote workers serving foreign clients and Japan’s tourist stays remain unchanged.
Type 1 workers, whose total stay is generally capped at five years, must pass higher-level skills tests and meet relevant experience standards before progressing to Type 2. Broader visa and residency routes are covered in Stamped Nomad’s guide to moving to Japan.
Frequently asked questions
When will Japan's five-year Specified Skilled Worker Type 2 stay start?
How long can Specified Skilled Worker Type 2 holders stay in Japan now?
Will the five-year Type 2 stay replace other stay periods in Japan?
Can Specified Skilled Worker Type 2 status be renewed in Japan?
Can family members accompany Specified Skilled Worker Type 2 holders in Japan?
Does Specified Skilled Worker Type 2 apply to remote workers in Japan?
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