[Important] Changes to the classification of Specified Skills in the construction industry

Until now, the Specified Skilled Worker (i) in the field of construction has been divided into 19 business divisions (18 pilot divisions). Under the old system, even if you obtained a Specified Skills qualification in a certain category, you could not engage in anything other than that work. There were also inconsistencies, such as occupations that were Technical Intern Training but not in Specified Skills.

This time, we have reorganized all work related to the construction industry, including the occupations targeted by Technical Intern Training, into three major Specified Skills business categories: business category [civil engineering], business category [construction], and business category [Infrastructure Facilities and equipment]. This has expanded the scope of work that Specified Skilled Worker can engage in and allows them to work flexibly.

For Specified Skills qualifications that you currently have, you can continue to perform the work in the category to which the job type is classified. In addition, you will be able to perform other work in the category to which the work is classified. The integration of categories will not prevent you from performing work that you were previously able to do.

In addition, along with the reorganization, Specified Skilled Worker (i) skills evaluation exam has also been integrated into three pilot divisions: Business Category [Civil Engineering], Business Category [Construction], and Business Category [Infrastructure Facilities / Equipment].

For example, if you pass the skills evaluation exam of the business category [Civil Engineering], you will be able to get a job related to civil engineering, and if you pass the skills evaluation exam of the business category [Construction], you will be able to get a job related to construction work. In addition, if you pass the skills evaluation exam of the business category [Infrastructure Facilities ・Equipment], you will be able to get a job related to Infrastructure Facilities ・equipment.

The exam consists of a written exam and a practical exam, and is administered using a computer-based test (CBT). Depending on which job in the construction industry you would like to work in, you can choose from three different exam categories. Please note that the old exam will also be held this year, so please choose as needed.

We have compiled a list of frequently asked questions and answers regarding the reorganization of our business divisions.

Foreign Resident Acceptance Manual and Q&A