The nature of the two programs
The Technical Intern Training program was created with the goal of transferring technical skills to developing countries — in theory, workers go to Japan to “learn a trade” and then return to contribute to their home country. Meanwhile, Specified Skilled Worker was introduced by Japan in 2019 to directly address labor shortages, so workers are regarded as official members of the company’s workforce.
This difference in purpose drives every other difference in benefits, wages, and job mobility that we analyze below.
Comparing the key criteria
Below are the differences candidates need to understand clearly before choosing the path that suits them:
- Period of stay: Technical interns may stay up to 5 years; Specified Skilled Worker type 1 allows 5 years, while type 2 can be renewed indefinitely and permits family sponsorship.
- Changing employers: Technical interns are essentially not allowed to change workplaces; Specified Skilled Workers may move to another company within the same industry.
- Entry requirements: Specified Skilled Worker requires passing a skills exam and a Japanese language test (usually N4 or higher); technical interns are not required to pass a skills exam.
- Wages: Specified Skilled Workers are paid on par with Japanese workers in the same position.
Quick note
If you have successfully completed 3 years as a technical intern, you can transfer directly to Specified Skilled Worker type 1 without taking the skills exam — a route many candidates choose in order to stay in Japan long term.
A transition path worth considering
In practice, the two programs are not mutually exclusive — they can be linked into one long-term path:
- Go to Japan as a Technical Intern, building up trade skills and Japanese language ability.
- Complete the program and switch to Specified Skilled Worker type 1 (5 years).
- Pass the type 2 exam for long-term renewal and to sponsor your family to Japan.
“Choosing the right visa from the start saves candidates many years and opens the door to long-term residence in Japan.”
— Consulting Department, Legal Global Vietnam
Advice from Legal Global Vietnam
Choosing between the two programs depends on each person’s Japanese level, industry, and long-term goals. Our Japanese–Vietnamese team will advise you on a concrete roadmap, support your exam preparation, and connect you with suitable host companies. Please contact us for free consultation.