Japan has announced plans to conduct Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) tests in Pakistan for nursing and agriculture sectors, providing enhanced employment opportunities for Pakistanis. This initiative builds upon previous efforts, including the introduction of similar assessment procedures for automobile transportation drivers (truck, bus, and taxi), scheduled earlier for March 2025. Commencing with nursing sector exams in August 2025 and agriculture tests in September 2025, this initiative underscores Japan’s commitment to opening its labor market to skilled Pakistani workers.
This significant development is the outcome of consistent efforts and ongoing diplomatic engagement by the Embassy of Pakistan in Tokyo with Japanese authorities. By allowing SSW examinations to be held within Pakistan, the new arrangement effectively eliminates major hurdles faced by potential candidates, particularly the necessity of traveling abroad to participate in these tests. Consequently, this streamlined recruitment process promises greater convenience and cost-efficiency for Pakistani job seekers looking to enter the Japanese workforce.
Introduced by Japan to address increasing labor shortages in several crucial sectors, the SSW program serves as an essential mechanism for recruiting foreign skilled workers. Under this program, the Japanese government intends to recruit approximately 135,000 workers in nursing care, 78,000 workers in agriculture, and an additional 24,500 workers in the automobile transportation sector by 2029. These ambitious targets reflect Japan’s growing dependence on foreign talent and its broader strategy to sustain economic productivity amid domestic population challenges.
Emphasizing the wider economic benefits of this initiative, the Embassy of Pakistan highlighted the potential for increased employment opportunities for Pakistani youth, in turn boosting remittances to the country. Remittance inflows remain a vital component of Pakistan’s economic stability, and this program could considerably enhance those inflows through higher employment rates abroad. It was also emphasized that the success of the SSW examinations relies heavily on the availability of qualified professionals who possess both practical job-related skills and proficiency in the Japanese language.
Recognizing the critical role training plays in ensuring candidates’ successful integration into the Japanese labor market, the Embassy has urged public and private sector institutions in Pakistan to actively prepare potential job seekers for these upcoming assessments. Institutions were recommended to offer targeted language training and technical skill development programs specifically aligned with the demands of the Japanese market, thus increasing the likelihood of candidates meeting stringent eligibility criteria and securing placements.
Candidates and training providers seeking further details regarding examination schedules, application procedures, and available study resources have been encouraged to directly approach the Community Welfare Wing of the Embassy of Pakistan or access the Embassy’s official website in Tokyo for comprehensive guidance and information.
