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Looking to build a secure, high-paying, and respectable career in Japan's healthcare sector? Japan’s SSW Nursing Care visa opens a legal and structured pathway for Nepalese youth to work in the elderly care industry under professional, ethical, and government-regulated settings.

 

Whether you’ve completed +2, vocational training in healthcare, or just have the passion to help others, the SSW (Specified Skilled Worker) Nursing Care program may be your golden opportunity.

 

Explore this complete guide to becoming a Caregiver/Care Worker (Kaigo) in Japan. Find out if nursing care in Japan is for you, and if your answer is yes, learn how to work as a nurse under the SSW visa from Nepal.

 

Table of Contents

  1. What is an SSW Nursing Care Visa?
    1. What is the Tokutei Ginou Visa (SSW Program)?
    2. Why is SSW for Nursing Care in Demand?
    3. Who is SSW Nursing Care For?
  2. Why Work in Japan’s Nursing Care Under SSW Visa?
    1. Salary and Growth Potential
    2. Legal Protection and Benefits
    3. International Work Experience
  3. SSW Nursing Care Jobs in Japan from Nepal
    1. Job Categories for Nepali Workers
    2. Where Are These Nursing Care Jobs Located?
    3. What Nursing Care Employers Expect from SSW Workers
  4. SSW Nursing Care Salary in Japan for Nepalese 
    1. Average Monthly Salary in Japan
    2. Benefits and Bonuses
    3. Cost of Living in Japan for SSW
  5. SSW Nursing Care Visa Requirements for Nepalese
    1. General Eligibility Criteria
    2. Language Requirements
    3. Where to Learn Japanese?
    4. Skills Test Requirements
    5. Required Documents for SSW Nursing Care Visa from Nepal
    6. Cost of the SSW Process
  6. Nursing Care Skills Evaluation SSW (i) Test: What You Need to Know
    1. Test Structure and Format
    2. Test Fee and Payment
    3. Test Scheduling in Nepal
  7. How to Apply for SSW Nursing Care from Nepal
    1. Application Steps
    2. Interview Tips for Nepalese Candidates
  8. Common Challenges in the SSW Nursing Care Journey
    1. Visa Rejection Reasons
    2. Agency Scams and Misinformation
    3. Language Struggles
    4. Switching Jobs or Industries in SSW Visa
  9. Life in Japan for Nepalese Nursing Care Workers
    1. Housing and Daily Life
    2. Working Environment and Culture
    3. Nepalese Community in Japan
  10. Nepal Government Rules and SSW Quota for Japan
  11. Train with Tokutei Ginou Ikusei Vocational College
  12. FAQs on SSW Nursing Care Jobs in Japan from Nepal

 

What is an SSW Nursing Care Visa?

Japan’s SSW Nursing Care Visa is a legal work permit under the Specified Skilled Worker (Tokutei Ginou) program that allows skilled foreign nationals including Nepali citizens to work in Japan’s growing elderly care industry. This visa is designed to address the labor shortage in Japan's aging society by welcoming trained caregivers from partner countries. 

Nursing Care, or 介護 (Kaigo) in Japanese, is one of the most essential and high-priority sectors within the SSW program. Under this category, foreign workers are employed in: 

  • Elderly care homes (Kaigo shisetsu) 
  • Rehabilitation centers 
  • Assisted living communities 
  • Group homes for people with disabilities 

Duties may include helping residents with: 

  • Bathing, dressing, eating, and hygiene 
  • Wheelchair or walker support 
  • Light physical therapy and emotional companionship 
  • Housekeeping and basic reporting 

Note: This visa does not allow clinical procedures like injections or medicine administration unless you are a certified nurse in Japan.

 

What is the Tokutei Ginou Visa (SSW Program)?

The Tokutei Ginou Visa, officially introduced in April 2019, is Japan’s solution to a critical labor crisis. It enables foreign workers to legally work in Japan’s 16 shortage-hit industries, including nursing care, construction, agriculture, food service, and more.

There are two types of SSW visas

SSW Type 1 Visa

SSW Type 2 Visa

  • For workers in 16 industries, including nursing care. 
  • Valid for up to 5 years. 
  • No family reunification allowed. 
  • Requires passing both a Japanese language test (JFT-Basic or JLPT N4) and a skills test in the target sector. 
  • Only for highly skilled roles in construction and shipbuilding (as of 2025 but more sectors may be added). 
  • Allows long-term stay, renewal, and even family sponsorship. 

 

Nepal and Japan signed a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) ensuring ethical recruitment, worker safety, and proper support under this visa category.

Industries Covered Under SSW (16 sectors)

  1. Nursing Care
  2. Building Cleaning Management
  3. Manufacture of Industrial Products
  4. Construction Industry
  5. Shipbuilding and Ship Machinery Industry
  6. Automobile Repair and Maintenance
  7. Aviation Industry
  8. Accommodation Industry
  9. Automobile Transportation Business
  10. Railway
  11. Agriculture
  12. Fishery and Aquaculture Industries
  13. Manufacture of Food and Beverages
  14. Food Service Industry
  15. Forestry
  16. Wood Industry

 

Why is SSW for Nursing Care in Demand?

Japan has the world’s most aged population, with over 29% of its citizens aged 65 or older as of 2025. This demographic trend has led to: 

  • A shortage of over 300,000 care workers by 2025 
  • Elderly facilities struggling to maintain staff numbers 
  • A rapidly growing market for long-term care services 

To combat this, Japan opened its doors to foreign workers especially from countries like Nepal, the Philippines, Indonesia, and Vietnam to work in elderly care legally and ethically. 

Nursing care is now one of the fastest-growing SSW categories, with annual quotas increasing steadily every year.

 

Who is SSW Nursing Care For?

The SSW Nursing Care Visa is specifically designed for young, compassionate and patient individuals who are physically and mentally fit, eager to work in Japan’s care environment, and can adapt to Japanese work culture. 

 

Eligibility Requirements for SSW in Japan’s Nursing Care Industry

  • Age: Typically 18 to 35 years old 
  • Education: Minimum of Secondary Education Examination (SEE/Grade 10) 
  • Health: Must be in good physical and mental condition 
  • Background: Clean criminal record and no history of deportation from Japan

 

The program targets

  • High school graduates who are interested in caregiving roles 
  • Diploma holders in Nursing or Health Assistant
  • Young job seekers from Nepal with Japanese language training and strong work ethics

 

Why Work in Japan’s Nursing Care Under SSW Visa?

Working in Japan as a caregiver under the SSW Nursing Care visa isn’t just a job - it’s a life-changing career opportunity. For Nepalese youth seeking stable income, legal migration, and valuable global experience, this pathway offers immense benefits. Whether you're a recent high school graduate or have healthcare training, this visa allows you to work in a safe, respectful, and structured environment while building a brighter future for yourself and your family. 

 

Salary and Growth Potential 

The SSW Nursing Care visa comes with competitive monthly salaries, often higher than what Nepalese workers earn in Gulf or Southeast Asian countries in similar caregiving roles. The average monthly salary ranges from ¥220,000 - ¥280,000 (Equivalent to NPR 200,000 - 260,000), including the bonuses and overtime pay.

Even though SSW Type 1 is limited to 5 years, successful candidates can: 

  • Get promoted within the care facility (shift leader, team coordinator) 
  • Become eligible for SSW Type 2 (when available for nursing care), which allows visa renewal and family sponsorship 
  • Use the experience to apply for PR, nursing licenses, or work in other developed countries like Canada or Australia 

 

Legal Protection and Benefits 

Japan is known for its strict labor laws, ensuring foreign workers are protected under the same regulations as local employees. Unlike many informal jobs in other countries, SSW visa holders are legally recognized employees. 

Legal Benefits You Receive

  • National Health Insurance: Covers most medical and hospital costs 
  • Pension Enrollment: Refundable after returning to Nepal 
  • Paid Annual Leave: Around 10–20 days per year 
  • Sick Leave and Maternity Leave: As per Japanese labor law 
  • Work Hours: Standard 8 hours/day, 5–6 days/week (overtime regulated) 
  • Night/Shift Allowance: Higher pay for weekend or night shifts 

Worker Protection Systems

  • OTIT and Immigration Services Agency (ISA) support foreign workers 
  • Helplines available in English and Nepali for reporting mistreatment 
  • Monitoring system ensures employers follow fair labor practices 

These benefits ensure that Nepalese caregivers can work without fear of exploitation or wage theft—common problems in some other destinations. 

 

International Work Experience 

Working under Japan’s SSW Nursing Care visa doesn’t just pay well, it helps you grow personally and professionally in one of the most organized and disciplined cultures in the world. 

Cultural Exposure

  • Learn about Japanese customs, etiquette, and traditions 
  • Work in a polite, respectful, and team-oriented environment 
  • Improve your Japanese fluency through daily interactions 

Skills Gained

  • Time management and discipline 
  • Patient handling, hygiene control, elderly communication 
  • Experience with Japan’s world-class care systems, useful globally 

Long-Term Opportunities

After working in Japan for 3–5 years, caregivers can: 

  • Return to Nepal with valuable international credentials 
  • Work in Japanese companies or NGOs in Nepal 
  • Qualify for skilled migration programs in Australia, Canada, or Europe
  •  Plan for higher education or business ventures with earned savings

 

SSW Nursing Care Jobs in Japan from Nepal 

The urgent labor shortage in Japan's nursing care sector has opened the doors for thousands of foreign workers including Nepalese youth to legally work in care homes, elderly facilities, and rehabilitation centers under the SSW visa. Nepali workers with the right qualifications, basic Japanese language skills, and a strong commitment to caregiving are highly sought after. Under the SSW Nursing Care program, you will receive full legal protection, structured training, and a rewarding experience of working in Japan’s globally respected healthcare system. 

 

Job Categories for Nepali Workers 

The SSW Nursing Care visa is not limited to just basic assistance roles. Depending on your training, communication skills, and Japanese fluency, Nepalese workers can apply for a variety of entry-level to mid-level caregiving roles. 

Common Job Roles Include: 

Job Roles

Responsibilities

Caregiver Assistant 

Basic daily care: bathing, dressing, feeding, walking support

Elderly Companion

Talking, playing games, providing emotional support, reading to elderly

Facility Helper

Cleaning, organizing rooms, helping with laundry and light housekeeping

Mobility Support Worker

Assisting with wheelchairs, walkers, and guiding residents around facilities

Meal Assistant

Preparing and serving meals, feeding those who need help, washing dishes

Night Shift Caregiver

Overnight supervision of elderly, responding to emergencies or calls for help

Rehabilitation Supporter

Supporting light physical activities as directed by healthcare staff

These roles are suitable for both men and women and do not require a Japanese medical degree. However, professional behavior, empathy, and the ability to follow care protocols are essential. 

 

Where Are These Nursing Care Jobs Located? 

Nursing care jobs for SSW visa holders are available throughout Japan from major cities to rural areas. However, rural and suburban regions often have the highest demand due to depopulation and labor shortages. 

High-Demand Cities and Regions: 

Regions

Opportunities and Facilities

Tokyo

Large private care homes, assisted living apartments, urban elderly centers

Osaka

Rehabilitation clinics, multi-story care complexes, dementia support homes

Nagoya

Community nursing centers, special elderly nursing homes (tokubetsu yōgo rōjin hōmu)

Fukuoka

Family-based elderly care homes, palliative care centers, night-shift heavy facilities

Hokkaido

Small group homes, regional nursing clinics, snowy region-specific support needs

Rural and Semi-Urban Areas: 

Japan’s countryside regions such as Tohoku, Shikoku, and Kyushu actively recruit SSW care workers. Jobs in these areas often come with: 

  • Shared dormitory housing 
  • Transportation allowances 
  • Quieter living environments 
  • Increased savings due to lower living costs 

These placements may also include language and cultural support, as employers understand the challenges of rural adaptation. 

 

What Nursing Care Employers Expect from SSW Workers 

Japanese employers are known for being professional, respectful and expect the same in return. As a foreign caregiver, your behavior, attitude, and commitment are just as important as your skills. 

Key Expectations Include: 

Areas

Employer Expectations

Cleanliness & Hygiene

Proper handwashing, clean uniforms, trimmed nails, mask use, patient hygiene upkeep

Communication Skills

Ability to understand instructions in Japanese, basic polite phrases (Keigo), active listening

Empathy and Patience

Respectful interaction with the elderly, even in stressful situations

Discipline and Timeliness

Arriving 10–15 minutes early, following duty rosters strictly, no sudden absences

Team Cooperation

Working in sync with Japanese staff using “Hō-Ren-Sō” (Report–Inform–Consult) practices

Learning Attitude

Willingness to learn more Japanese, adapt to routines, and take part in ongoing training

Employers often provide on-the-job training during the first few weeks to help foreign workers adjust to the working environment, safety procedures, and communication norms.

 

SSW Nursing Care Salary in Japan for Nepalese 

Japan offers competitive and legally protected salaries to Nepalese workers under the SSW Nursing Care visa. Besides basic monthly pay, you also receive overtime compensation, bonuses, and various living allowances. When combined with Japan’s fair labor system and lower costs in rural areas, this visa can provide significant monthly savings. 

 

Let’s break down everything you need to know:

 

Average Monthly Salary in Japan

Category

Amount (Yen)

Equivalent in NPR (Approx.)

Base Salary

¥180,000 - ¥250,000

NPR 165,000 - 230,000

Overtime / Shift Pay

+ ¥20,000 - ¥40,000

+ NPR 18,000 - 37,000

Weekend Bonus

+ ¥10,000 - ¥15,000

+ NPR 9,000 - 14,000

Total (Average)

¥220,000 - ¥280,000

NPR 200,000 - 260,000

Currency Rate: 1 JPY ≈ 0.92 NPR (as of 2025; may vary) 

 

Benefits and Bonuses 

Unlike informal jobs in other countries, Japan’s SSW program ensures structured employee benefits, which significantly improve quality of life and savings. 

Standard Benefits for Nursing Care Workers:

  • Housing Allowance or Dormitory 
    • Shared housing or private rooms 
    • Rent partially or fully covered 
    • Dormitory fees: ¥10,000–¥30,000/month 
    • Utilities often included or subsidized 
  • Transportation Allowance 
    • Monthly train/bus pass paid by employer 
    • Reimbursement of actual commute costs 
    • Range: ¥5,000–¥15,000/month 
  • Overtime Pay (Legally Regulated) 
    • Overtime after 40 hours/week paid at 125% rate 
    • Holiday or late-night shifts may offer double pay 
  • Bonuses (Subject to Employer Policy) 
    • Many companies offer seasonal bonuses (summer & winter) 
    • Bonus range: ¥30,000 to ¥100,000/year 
    • Based on company profits and individual performance 
  • Insurance & Pension 
    • National Health Insurance: Covers medical & hospital bills 
    • Pension contributions refunded if you return to Nepal after completing work duration

 

Cost of Living in Japan for SSW 

To truly understand how much you can save, it’s essential to examine your monthly expenses as an SSW caregiver in Japan. 

Expense Category

Estimated Monthly Cost

Notes

Rent (Shared room)

¥10,000 - ¥30,000

Dormitory/shared apartment, partly employer-covered

Food & Groceries

¥20,000 - ¥30,000

Cheaper with canteen or communal kitchen

Transportation

¥5,000 - ¥10,000

Cheaper with canteen or communal kitchenOften reimbursed by employer

Utilities

¥5,000 - ¥10,000

Gas, electricity, water - usually low in dorms

Mobile & Internet

¥3,000 - ¥5,000

SIM cards and WiFi available at low monthly cost

Personal Expenses

¥5,000 - ¥10,000

Clothes, toiletries, occasional outings

 

If your total earnings are around ¥220,000–¥280,000 and your living costs are around ¥70,000, you could save ¥130,000–¥190,000/month, or NPR 120,000–175,000!

 

SSW Nursing Care Visa Requirements for Nepalese

To work legally in Japan’s nursing care sector under the SSW visa, Nepalese applicants must meet specific criteria related to age, education, language skills, caregiving knowledge, and documentation. This ensures that only qualified, motivated, and job-ready individuals are selected for the program. 

 

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of everything you need:

 

General Eligibility Criteria

You must meet the following basic criteria to qualify for the Japanese SSW visa:

Criteria

Requirements

Age

18-35 years (Best chances if under 30 years)

Education

Minimum SEE passed. +2 or Bachelor preferred 

Health Condition

Physically and mentally fit

No Criminal Record

Police clearance required

Willingness to work abroad

Must agree to comply with SSW work conditions clauses under contract

 

Language Requirements

All SSW nursing care applicants must prove their Japanese language proficiency. This is essential not only for visa approval but also for daily communication with elderly residents and co-workers in care facilities. 

Accepted Language Tests: 

  • JFT-Basic: A2 Level (Pass) - Easier, practical Japanese for work setting 
  • JLPT N4 Level - More advanced than JFT-Basic

Note: JFT-Basic or JLPT N4 is required. JFT-Basic is easier and more job-focused.

 

Where to Learn Japanese? 

Join our reputed Japanese Language Preparation Class. You may simply Contact or visit us to enrol in our classes led by the top Japanese language professionals in Nepal. We offer: 

  • Japanese grammar & vocabulary classes 
  • JLPT and JFT-Basic test preparation 
  • Speaking & listening practice for interviews

 

For more details, you may read:

 

Skills Test Requirements

Besides Japanese, candidates must pass the SSW (i) Nursing Care Skills Evaluation Test, also known as the Prometric test. This verifies your practical understanding and proves that you’re ready to handle elderly care responsibilities.

 

About Nursing Care Skills Evaluation Test:

Criteria 

Description

Conducted by

Prometric (on behalf of the Japanese government)

Format

Multiple-choice and visual questions (Computer Based Testing - CBT)

Language Options

English and Japanese

No. of Questions

45

Topics Covered

Hygiene, lifting techniques, nutrition, emergency response, communication

Duration

1 hour

Passing Score

65%

Exam Fee

USD 8 (NPR 1,095)

Result Validity

10 Years from the date of issue

Retake Options (if failed)

You can retake the test after 45 days.

Test Centers 

Find SSW Test Centres in Nepal

 

Required Documents for SSW Nursing Care Visa from Nepal

When applying for the visa, you’ll need to accumulate these following documents:

  • Academic transcripts and certificates
  • Valid passport (valid for at least 1 year)
  • Police report / clearance certificate (issued within 6 months)
  • Language test certificate (JFT-Basic or JLPT N4 results slip)
  • Skills test certificate (Prometric)
  • Training completion certificate (if completed)
  • Recent photographs (2-4 pieces)
  • Medical report (if requested by employers)

 

Cost of the SSW Process

The total cost of preparing and applying for the SSW Nursing Care visa can vary, but here’s a general breakdown: 

 

Item

Estimated Cost in NPR (as of 2025)

JFT-Basic Test Fee

NPR 5,000–6,000

Prometric Skills Test Fee

NPR 1,000–1,500

Japanese Language Course

NPR 25,000–50,000 (depends on level)

Training Fees (Vocational)

NPR 30,000–60,000

Visa Application + Embassy

NPR 5,000–8,000

Medical & Police Report

NPR 2,000–5,000

Documentation & Translation

NPR 2,000–4,000

 

Save preparation costs by choosing a genuine institution like Tokutei Ginou Ikusei Vocational College that offers all-in-one training and placement support.

 

Nursing Care Skills Evaluation SSW (i) Test: What You Need to Know 

Nepalese applicants aiming for Japan's SSW Nursing Care Visa must pass a job-specific skill test conducted by Prometric Japan. This is a mandatory assessment designed to ensure you can safely and effectively assist elderly individuals in Japan’s care facilities. The test evaluates your practical understanding of caregiving tasks, safety protocols, and basic medical knowledge, making sure you’re ready to work under Japan’s high standards. 

 

Test Structure and Format

  • Test Type: Computer-Based Testing (CBT) 
  • Duration: 60 minutes 
  • Question Types: Multiple-choice questions covering: 
    • Hygiene
    • Lifting techniques
    • Nutrition
    • Infection prevention
    • Communication 
  • Languages Available: English and Japanese 

 

Test Fee and Payment 

  • Current Test Fee: USD 8 (approximately NPR 1,095) 
  • Payment Methods in Nepal: Mastercard and VISA credit/debit cards with 3D Secure authentication 

Note: Ensure your card is enabled for international transactions. 

 

Test Scheduling in Nepal 

How to Schedule Exam Date: 

1. Create a Prometric ID: 

2. Select Test Details: 

  • Choose "Nursing Care Skills Evaluation Test" as your test category. 
  • Select your preferred test center and date. 

3. Payment: 

  • Complete the payment using the accepted methods (Mastercard and VISA). 

4. Confirmation: 

  • Receive a confirmation email with test details. 

 

SSW Test Centers in Nepal for 2025: 

  • Universal Language and Computer Institute, Dillibazar, Kathmandu
  • Alpha Beta Institute Pvt. Ltd., New Baneshwor, Kathmandu
  • Infomax College of Information Technology and Management, Ranipauwa, Pokhara

 

How to Apply for SSW Nursing Care from Nepal 

Applying for Japan’s SSW Nursing Care visa from Nepal is a well-defined process, but it requires careful preparation. From learning the Japanese language to passing two essential tests and completing documentation, every step must be followed systematically to ensure a smooth and successful application. 

 

This section outlines exactly how Nepalese candidates can apply and succeed in securing a legal nursing care job in Japan. 

 

Application Steps 

  • Training: Enroll in a recognized institution for Japanese language and nursing care training. 
  • Language Test: Pass the JFT-Basic or JLPT N4 Japanese language proficiency test. 
  • Skills Test: Pass the Prometric Nursing Care Skills Evaluation SSW (i) Test.
  • Interview: Attend interviews with Japanese employers or agencies. 
  • Visa Application: Submit necessary documents to the Japanese embassy for visa processing. 

 

For a detailed guide, refer to our How to Apply for SSW blog.

 

Interview Tips for Nepalese Candidates

  • Language Proficiency: Practice speaking Japanese daily to build confidence. 
  • Honesty: Be transparent about your intentions, career goals, and commitment to working in Japan. 
  • Cultural Understanding: Familiarize yourself with Japanese work culture, etiquette, and expectations.

 

Common Challenges in the SSW Nursing Care Journey 

While the SSW pathway offers great opportunities, Nepalese applicants may encounter challenges like fraud agencies and unexpected visa rejections. Awareness and preparation can help navigate these hurdles effectively. 

 

Visa Rejection Reasons 

Common Mistakes: 

  • Submission of fake or incomplete documents. 
  • Failure to meet language or skills test requirements. 
  • Inconsistencies in application information. 

 

Agency Scams and Misinformation 

Red Flags: 

  • Agencies demanding exorbitant fees. 
  • Guarantees of job placement without proper testing. 

 

Precaution: 

 

Language Struggles 

Misconceptions: 

  • Assuming basic Japanese is sufficient; however, workplace communication requires proficiency. 

 

Overcoming Challenges: 

  • Engage in immersive language courses and practice with native speakers or language partners. 

 

Switching Jobs or Industries in SSW Visa

Under the SSW visa, changing employers within the same industry is permitted, but switching industries requires reapplication and passing relevant tests.

 

Life in Japan for Nepalese Nursing Care Workers 

Working in Japan under the SSW Nursing Care visa isn’t just about earning money, it’s about adjusting to a new country, culture, and lifestyle. For Nepalese workers, understanding what life looks like after arrival is crucial to ensure a smooth and fulfilling experience. 

 

From housing and daily routines to Japanese work culture and a strong Nepalese community, this section covers everything you need to know. 

 

Housing and Daily Life 

Most care institutions in Japan provide housing options or assistance for SSW workers, especially those coming from abroad. 

Housing Type

Description

Company Dormitory

  • Shared rooms or small private units within walking distance of the workplace. 
  • Often includes basic furniture (bed, table, fan / heater). 
  • Rent: ¥10,000–¥30,000/month (deducted from salary).

Shared Apartment

  • Shared with other Nepalese or foreign workers. 
  • More independence but slightly higher rent (¥20,000–¥50,000/month). 
  • Utilities usually split.

Private Apartment

  • Rare for new SSW workers due to cost, documentation, and need for a Japanese guarantor. 
  • Rent: ¥40,000–¥80,000/month.

 

Daily Essentials: 

Grocery Shopping: 

  • Available at supermarkets, 100-yen shops, and konbini (convenience stores). 
  • Major cities have Nepali grocery shops. 

Transportation: 

  • Efficient public transportation using IC cards like Suica or Pasmo. 
  • Many workplaces are within walking or cycling distance. 

Mobile/Internet: 

  • Basic SIM card plans start around ¥3,000/month. 
  • Pocket WiFi and apartment WiFi are widely available. 

Banking: 

  • Required for receiving salary. 
  • Japan Post Bank (Yūcho), MUFG, or Shinsei Bank are commonly used by foreigners. 

 

Working Environment and Culture 

Japanese work culture is known for its discipline, structure, and respect. SSW nursing care workers must adjust to both professional expectations and the emotional demands of caregiving. 

 

Workplace Behavior and Expectations: 

  • Punctuality: Always arrive at least 10–15 minutes early. Being late is taken seriously. 
  • Clean Uniforms: Neat appearance is mandatory. Uniforms often provided by the employer. 
  • Senpai–Kōhai System: Junior staff should greet, listen, and show respect to seniors. 
  • Politeness (Keigo): Use respectful language, especially with elderly and senior staff. 
  • Cleanliness and Hygiene: Workers are often expected to assist with cleaning areas like toilets, floors, and kitchens. Strict protocols around handwashing, mask-wearing, and uniform washing.
  • Teamwork and Communication: The Japanese work system emphasizes “Hō–Ren–Sō”, a trio of communication principles: 

Hōkoku – Report clearly to supervisors 

Renraku – Share updates with colleagues 

Sōdan – Consult others before making decisions 

 

Nepalese Community in Japan 

1. Size and Distribution 

  • Over 150,000 Nepalese reside in Japan (as of 2024), making them the sixth-largest foreign community. 
  • Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, Saitama, and Fukuoka have large Nepali populations. 

 

2. Support and Social Groups 

  • Nepali Associations: NRN Japan, ANFSIJ, and local community clubs offer legal, social, and emergency support. 
  • Social Media Groups: Active Facebook and WhatsApp groups help with housing, jobs, events, and advice. 
  • Temples and Cultural Events: Nepali temples in Tokyo and Saitama organize Dashain, Tihar, and Buddha Jayanti events. 

 

3. Nepali Restaurants and Shops 

  • Nepali restaurants like Namaste Tokyo, Momotarou Curry, and Thakali Kitchen offer homestyle meals. 
  • Nepali grocery shops stock lentils, spices, pickles, and momo wrappers.

 

Nepal Government Rules and SSW Quota for Japan 

The Government of Nepal oversees the migration of workers under the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) program to Japan through strict regulatory frameworks, approved agencies, and annual quotas—especially for high-demand sectors like nursing care. Understanding these rules ensures a safe, legal, and transparent journey to Japan for Nepalese youth. 

 

Role of the Department of Foreign Employment (DoFE) 

The Department of Foreign Employment (DoFE) under the Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security (MoLESS) is the central authority regulating all foreign labor migration, including the SSW program to Japan. 

Responsibilities of the DoFE in SSW Deployment: 

 

1. Approving Licensed Manpower Agencies. These agencies must meet government criteria, including transparency, training standards, and no exploitation history. The list of approved agencies is regularly updated on the DoFE official website. Workers should avoid unregistered consultancies to prevent fraud. 

 

2. The DoFE enforces key regulations for overseas employment under SSW, such as: 

  • Workers must complete Japanese language (JFT-Basic or JLPT N4) and skill-based tests (e.g., nursing care skills evaluation exam). 
  • No overcharging of recruitment fees. 
  • Contract transparency and prior job offers before visa processing. 

 

3. Before departure, all SSW candidates must attend: 

  • Pre-departure Orientation: A mandatory session covering Japanese culture, labor laws, rights, and employer expectations. 
  • Final Approval (RA Number): Issued after submitting all valid documents including test results, offer letter, insurance, and medical clearance. 

 

4. Coordination with Japan’s OTIT and Immigration Services Nepal’s DFE collaborates with Japan’s Organization for Technical Intern Training (OTIT) and Immigration Services Agency (ISA) to streamline legal entry, placement, and worker protection. 

 

SSW Nursing Care Quota from Nepal 

To regulate and protect foreign workers, the Government of Nepal and Government of Japan have signed a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) for the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) program. This agreement outlines the legal pathways for Nepalese citizens to work in Japan across 16 sectors, including the nursing care industry. 

The nursing care sector is among the highest-priority categories, with Japan allocating thousands of slots annually to Nepal and other partner countries.

 

Train with Tokutei Ginou Ikusei Vocational College 

Preparing for a nursing care job in Japan under the SSW visa? Tokutei Ginou Ikusei Vocational College offers a complete training-to-placement pathway designed for Nepalese students. From mastering the Japanese language to passing skill tests and securing job offers, we help you every step of the way. 

Our Programs and Services 

As a leading vocational institute in Nepal specialising in SSW nursing care training, we provide a comprehensive curriculum tailored to Japan’s workplace requirements. 

Courses We Offer: 

  • Japanese Language Training (JFT-Basic / JLPT N4/N5)
  • Nursing Care Training and Practical sessions on: 
    • Hygiene
    • Lifting techniques
    • Infection prevention 
    • Cultural and Workplace Etiquette 
  • Exam Preparation Support 

 

Placement and Recruitment Support 

  • Benefit from our direct link to verified Japanese employers looking for skilled, job-ready Nepalese workers. 
  • Our in-house placement team collaborates with Japanese age care centres and staffing partners.
  • Personalized coaching in Japanese conversation, employer expectations, and mock interviews.
  • Documentation, application, and contract verification support
  • Coordinating with licensed manpower agencies for final visa processing 
  • We ensure all jobs meet legal criteria under SSW guidelines - no broker middlemen, no overcharging. 

 

Why Choose Us? 

We are committed to your success - from the classroom to the kitchen to your new life in Japan. 

  • High Pass Rate on Skill & Language Tests
  • Partnerships with Japanese employers registered under SSW guidelines—ensuring safe, legal, and ethical job placements. 
  • No hidden fees. All costs are disclosed upfront, and training is conducted with DoFE standards. 
  • Even after you arrive in Japan, our alumni network and Japan-based coordinators provide On-arrival assistance, Emergency helplines, and Cultural adaptation help.

 

Testimonials from Our Alumni: 

“Strong Japanese Language Preparation, Personalized Guidance & One-on-One Support, Your Future in Japan Starts Here!”

- Keshab Sutar

 

“Real counseling, Pioneer location, Affordable cost Best option for Japan.” 

- Sandhya KC

 

“Perfect place for the preparation of SSW visa for Japan”

- Mahesh Shrestha


 

Contact Us to speak with a counsellor or schedule a free consultation.

 

 

FAQs on SSW Nursing Care Jobs in Japan from Nepal

 

1. What is the basic salary of a nurse in Nepal? 

Most nurses in Nepal earn around NPR 20,000 to 25,000 per month, especially when just starting out. It's quite modest compared to opportunities abroad. 

 

2. What does Kaigo mean in Japanese? 

Kaigo simply means caregiving especially for the elderly. It includes helping with daily tasks like bathing, eating, walking, and providing emotional support. 

 

3. How do I get a nursing job in Japan?

You’ll need to pass two main tests: the JFT-Basic or JLPT N4 for language, and the nursing care skills test. After that, apply through a trusted manpower agency in Nepal. 

 

4. How much can caregiver nurses earn in Japan? 

Caregivers in Japan typically earn between ¥220,000 - ¥280,000 (Equivalent to NPR 200,000 - 260,000) per month, and that’s after including payments for overtime or bonuses.

 

5. Can I study caregiver training in Japan? 

Yes, but most Nepalese complete the training at home before going. Once in Japan, many employers offer additional training during your job so you keep learning on the job.

 

6. Is there really demand for nurses and caregivers in Japan? 

Absolutely! Japan has an aging population and a growing shortage of care workers. That’s why they’ve created the SSW Nursing Care visa to welcome trained, caring people from countries like Nepal.

 

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