SSW Agriculture in Japan : Jobs, Salary & Eligibility 2025

Agriculture in Japan contributes to 1% of its total economy. But, with the growing number of elderly citizens, Japan is already facing a shortage of youth workers to continue its economic and food production process. 

This vacuum has made agriculture one of the most accessible SSW sectors for foreign workers. Japan needs young, energetic workers, and Nepal, with its agricultural history and youth workforce, has become a priority source country.

Here in this guide, you will understand what is SSW for agriculture, jobs related to the industry, and how you can become a skilled worker in Japan’s farming field.

Table of Contents

1. What is SSW Agriculture?
2. Overview of SSW Visa in the Agriculture Industry
3. Types of Agriculture Jobs in Japan under SSW
4. SSW Agriculture Salary in Japan for Nepalese
5. SSW Agriculture Visa Requirements for Nepalese
6. How to Apply for SSW Agriculture Visa from Nepal
7. SSW Agriculture Interview Tips for Nepalese Workers
8. Common Challenges and Concerns of Nepalese Skilled Workers
9. Final Takeaway
10. Prepare with A Vocational College in Nepal
11. FAQs - SSW Agriculture Jobs & Salary in Japan

What is SSW Agriculture?

The SSW visa in agricultural industry opens up a legal work route for Nepalese nationals who want to build a career in Japan’s modern farming sector. With opportunities in crop production, livestock care, and farm technology, this sector is steadily growing in demand.

The SSW Agriculture visa is divided into two categories:

SSW (i): For general skilled workers

• Nepalese applicants must pass a skills test and a basic Japanese language test (JFT-Basic or JLPT N4 equivalent).
• Roles include performing field tasks, animal care, equipment use
• The visa is valid for up to 5 years under a single employer and job type.
   

SSW (ii)

• Available only after completing SSW (i) and passing the Level 2 skill assessment.
• Responsible for supervisory or technical roles after internal promotion
• This advanced tier allows for a longer stay, job mobility, and family accompaniment.
   

Unlike the Technical Intern Training Program (TITP), which focused on short-term skills transfer, the SSW visa is designed for real employment with fair wages, proper labor rights, and long-term prospects.

For Nepalese workers, SSW Agriculture offers:

• Legal and structured work opportunities
• Direct employment contracts
• Growth potential through promotion or status upgrades

Overview of SSW Visa in the Agriculture Industry

Japan launched the Specified Skilled Worker (Tokutei Ginou) visa in 2019 to solve its labor shortages in essential industries. Agriculture was one of the first sectors opened under this program, given the country’s rapidly aging farmers and shrinking rural workforce.

The visa allows Nepalese workers to legally enter and work in roles such as crop cultivation, dairy farming, livestock care, and food processing. Japan’s agriculture sector is not only labor-intensive but also regulated under strict hygiene, safety, and efficiency standards, which makes skilled foreign workers especially valuable.

Today, Japan’s agricultural workforce is heavily skewed toward older age groups, where more than 65% of farmers are above 65 years old. This urgent demographic shift has made agriculture one of the most accessible and actively hiring SSW sectors for countries like Nepal.

Regions with notable shortages include:

• Tohoku region
• Hokkaido (Sapporo)
• Kansai (Osaka)
• Chugoku region
   

As Japan turns to younger foreign workers to sustain its farming industry, Nepal — with its agricultural background, rural manpower, and youth population — is seen as a high-priority partner.

Types of Agriculture Jobs in Japan under SSW

Japan’s agricultural industry is modern, well-organized, and labour-intensive. Under the SSW Agriculture category, Nepalese workers can apply for specific roles with defined responsibilities. These are not generic farm jobs, each role requires precision, consistency, and adaptability.

There are specifically two main job categories in agriculture for the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) visa in Japan:

1. General Crop Farming
   Cultivation management, planting, growing, harvesting, collection, shipping, and sorting of a wide variety of crops such as vegetables, fruits, grains, tea, and other horticultural products.
2. General Livestock Farming
   Management of livestock including feeding, breed management, collection, shipping, and sorting of livestock products such as pigs, cattle, and chickens.

These two categories cover the entire agriculture field under the SSW program, encompassing all related job openings within agriculture in Japan.

SSW Agriculture Salary in Japan for Nepalese

The average salary for agriculture workers under the SSW visa in Japan can vary by job type and location, but Nepalese workers earn fairly compared to local standards.

Japan’s agricultural wage system is straightforward. Wages are offered on a monthly basis, with opportunities for overtime, night shifts, and seasonal bonuses.

Monthly Salary Range for Farmers in Japan

On average, agriculture workers under SSW receive between ¥170,000 and ¥230,000 per month (NPR 147,000 - NPR 200,000 per month).

Note: Salary can vary by location and company.

• Urban farms (e.g., Osaka, Kyoto): slightly higher wages but higher living costs
• Rural farms (e.g., Tohoku, Nagano): lower costs of living, subsidized accommodation
   

Skilled workers in specialized roles, like food analysts or cultivation managers, often earn more.

Allowances and Bonuses

Japanese companies offer structured benefits, even for foreign workers under the SSW visa. These may include:

Compared to general labor jobs in Nepal or the Middle East, SSW agriculture jobs in Japan provide better legal protections, higher net savings, and cleaner work environments.

SSW Agriculture Visa Requirements for Nepalese

Before applying for an agriculture job in Japan, Nepalese workers must meet certain skill and language requirements, along with the necessary documentation. Here, we have discussed your eligibility and requirements for SSW in detail:

1. Age Limit and Education

• Minimum age: 18 years
• No upper age limit, but 18–35 is considered the ideal range by most employers
• Formal education is not mandatory, but a basic understanding of agriculture or rural background is highly preferred

Employers also look for discipline, consistency, and the willingness to adapt to Japan’s strict work ethics.

2. Japanese Language Test

You must pass a Japanese language test to depict your fluency with either:

• JFT-Basic (Japan Foundation Test for Basic Japanese), or
• JLPT N4 level or higher

These exams test your ability to communicate in Japanese work settings. You’ll need to understand safety instructions, schedules, and basic dialogues.

Find the Best Japanese Language Preparation Classes in Nepal

3. SSW Agriculture Skill Test (Prometric)

Japan uses a standardized Prometric-based test system for agriculture. This test is conducted globally, including in Nepal, and is mandatory for all SSW (i) applicants in this sector.

1. Agriculture Skill Assessment Test Level 1
   Basic skill assessment for entry-level work — required for SSW (i)
2. Agriculture Skill Assessment Test Level 2
   Advanced practical test — required for SSW (ii), usually taken in Japan after job experience
    

Both tests are conducted in Japanese and follow a multiple-choice format.

Testing Subjects

You’ll be tested in the following core areas:

• Crop Farming: Planting, cultivation, harvesting, post-harvest handling, soil preparation, pest/weed control, crop rotation, safety, and basic farm machinery operation and safety.
• Livestock Farming: Animal husbandry, feeding, breeding, animal health, disease prevention, waste management, and operation/maintenance of farm facilities.

Test Format

Written (multiple-choice/short-answer) and practical (hands-on demonstration). Basic Japanese language proficiency is required, especially for agricultural vocabulary.

SSW (ii) Advanced Test

Focuses on advanced techniques, farm management, leadership, and agricultural business topics.

Preparation: Study Japanese agricultural manuals, improve Japanese language skills (especially agricultural vocabulary).

Candidates are advised to prepare using the official SSW agriculture book, which outlines all test modules.

Test results are usually available within a week, and passing certificates must be submitted during your visa process.

Summary of Educational/Skill Requirements

4. Documents Required for SSW Visa Application

To begin the application process, you must prepare and submit the following:

• A valid passport
• Citizenship certificate
• Prometric Agriculture Skill Test Results
• Certificate of Eligibility (COE) issued by Japanese immigration
• A valid job offer letter from a registered Japanese employer
• Police clearance and medical check-up reports

Each document must be accurate and verifiable. Any inconsistency can delay or cancel your application.

How to Apply for SSW Agriculture Visa from Nepal

Applicants must complete Japanese language and skill training, pass the Japanese language and agriculture skill tests, then apply through VFS in Kathmandu. These are the step-by-step application process:

1. Pass the required tests - Japanese language test and SSW Argiculture Skill Test
2. Prepare your documents including identification papers, test results, police report, medical clearance, and others.
3. Apply through an authorized agency in Nepal. Choose a verified and MOFA-licensed recruiter in Nepal. Avoid brokers who promise shortcut visas
4. Secure a Job of your field in Japan. Receive a written employment contract. Interviews may happen online or through hiring events
5. Apply for COE (Certificate of Eligibility). Your employer in Japan applies on your behalf.
6. After COE approval, begin visa processing. Submit all your documents to Japanese embassy.
7. Attend Pre-departure Orientation and Flight.
8. Travel to Japan and begin your employment legally
    

Related article: SSW Visa Application Process from Nepal and What After Reaching Japan

SSW Agriculture Interview Tips for Nepalese Workers

Once you pass the skill and language tests, the next step is your interview with a Japanese employer. These interviews can be held online or in person, and they focus more on work ethic and attitude than technical knowledge alone. Cracking the interview is essential. Here are practical tips to help you prepare for the Japanese work culture and employer expectations.

Common Interview Questions for SSW Agriculture

• Why do you want to work in Japan’s agriculture sector?
• Do you have experience in farming or livestock care?
• Are you comfortable living in rural areas with limited amenities?
• Can you follow instructions and work under supervision?

Sometimes, employers may ask basic questions in Japanese to assess your communication level. Answers must be respectful, honest, and humble.

Cultural Etiquette Tips for an SSW Interview

• Greet with a bow and a polite “Hajimemashite” (Nice to meet you)
• Wear clean, formal clothing even for online interviews
• Maintain eye contact, but avoid being too casual
• Always use polite phrases like “Arigatou gozaimasu” and “Yoroshiku onegaishimasu”

Japanese employers value punctuality, humility, and responsibility more than flashy resumes. Show your willingness to learn and adapt.

Common Challenges and Concerns of Nepalese Skilled Workers

Some Nepalese candidates face issues during the SSW visa application process. Here are real concerns with advice.

SSW Agriculture Visa Rejection in Nepal

Most visa rejections occur due to:

• Incomplete documentation
• Fake training certificates
• Poor Japanese test performance
• Unverified job offers

Carefully follow each step, and always cross-check the agency's license with the Nepal Department of Foreign Employment (DOFE) before applying through it.

False Promises by Agencies

Many brokers promise fast-track SSW visas without exams or legal contracts. These are fraudulent.

Always choose agencies that:

• Are registered with the Ministry of Labour, Nepal
• Have transparent fees and written agreements
• Offer language and skill test preparation
   

How to Find Genuine SSW Consultants in Nepal?

• Verify their registration on DOFE Nepal’s portal
• Check their client history and success rate
• Avoid anyone asking for money before test results
   

SSW is a government-to-government program so it is transparent, test-based, and fair.

Additional Insights for Nepalese Workers

Life in Japan is rewarding and very different from Nepal. Understanding daily life in Japan helps you adapt faster and avoid common surprises.

Here's what to expect as an SSW agriculture worker.

Cost of Living in Japan

Living costs vary by region. In rural agricultural zones, expenses are significantly lower.

• Rent: Often free or subsidized by the employer
• Food: ¥20,000–¥30,000/month (approx. NPR 17,000–25,000)
• Utilities: ¥5,000–¥10,000 (shared or covered by your company)
• Public Transport: Not needed in most farms, transport is often arranged

Compared to Kathmandu or other migration destinations like the Gulf countries, rural Japan offers a cleaner, safer, and more cost-efficient lifestyle.

Accommodation and Meals for SSW Workers

Most companies provide either Shared dormitory housing, or Private rooms within farm facilities.

Meals are often cooked together or managed through company canteens. Hygiene is taken seriously so it is safe to expect regular cleaning duties and organized kitchen systems.

Nepalese Community in Japan’s Rural Regions

While urban areas like Tokyo have larger Nepalese populations, rural areas such as Hokkaido, Fukushima, Aomori, and Tochigi also have small but growing Nepalese groups. Many workers form close-knit communities, sharing cultural festivals, food, and language support.

Work-Life in Japanese Farms

Farming jobs follow a strict routine:

• Work starts early (around 6–7 AM)
• Afternoon breaks are common
• Weekends are mostly off or rotated

Japanese farms respect personal time and offer a balanced work culture. However, punctuality, teamwork, and discipline are non-negotiable.

Final Takeaway 

Japan's SSW agriculture program offers more than just a job, it’s a path to long-term security, international work experience, and future growth. For Nepalese workers with farming experience or interest, this is the right time to take action.

What makes this opportunity different?

The answers:

• Legal employment
• Stable salary and benefits
• Pathways to long-term settlement (SSW ii)
• A clean, structured work environment
   

If you're ready to take the next step, prepare your documents, focus on your language and skills test, and work with verified consultants like Tokutei Ginou Ikusei (translated: SSW Training). With dedication and preparation, Japan's agricultural future could be your own.

Prepare with A Vocational College in Nepal

Tokutei Ginou (SSW) Ikusei Skill & Vocational College provides SSW agriculture preparation courses and job placement programs to support your success from Nepal to Japan.

If you're serious about building a career in Japan’s agriculture industry, proper preparation matters. At Tokutei Ginou Ikusei Vocational College, we guide you at every step:

• Japanese Language Training: JFT-Basic and JLPT N4 focused classes with mock tests
• Skill Test Preparation: Complete guidance using official SSW agriculture books, mock Prometric exams, and practice drills
• Job Search Support: Access to verified job openings, employer interviews, and COE processing support
• Cultural Readiness: Etiquette workshops, interview training, and pre-departure orientation

Our programs are custom-built for Nepalese students aiming to work in Japan. We don’t just prepare you for the test, we prepare you for the lifestyle, responsibilities, and long-term success.

FAQs - SSW Agriculture Jobs & Salary in Japan

What is the salary of SSW Agriculture in Japan?
SSW agriculture workers earn about ¥160,000 to ¥255,000 per month, with average hourly wages around ¥1,095. Salaries increase with experience and skill level.

Is there a demand for SSW Agriculture in Japan?
Yes, agriculture is among the top sectors facing labor shortages in Japan due to an aging population, maintaining strong demand for SSW workers in 2025. This is an excellent opportunity for Nepalese workers to enter the Japanese job market, earn higher, and plan to settle in Japan.

Is Japan suitable for agriculture in 2025?
Yes, Japan is modernizing agriculture with advanced tech and sustainability, making it a viable career with government support in 2025.

What is the qualification for SSW Agriculture?
Candidates must be 18+, pass the Japanese language test (JLPT N4 or JFT Basic), and pass the Agriculture Skill Assessment Test Level 1 (SSW1) or Level 2 with experience (SSW2).

Which job is highly paid in Japan’s Agriculture Industry?
Senior farm managers, agricultural engineers, and agritech specialists earn the highest salaries, with average annual pay around ¥7 million for top roles.

How much do Japanese farmers get paid?
The average monthly income is about ¥170,000 to ¥175,000, with self-employed farmers typically earning less than SSW workers employed under formal contracts.

What is the agricultural income in Japan?
Japan's agriculture sector's annual output is about ¥5.38 trillion (2025), reflecting steady government support and modernization efforts.

Can I Get SSW Agriculture Without JLPT?
No. You must pass JFT-Basic or JLPT N4 equivalent. Even if your job is physically demanding and not communication-heavy, Japanese law requires basic language proficiency for safety and legal compliance.

Also Read: 

Benefits of SSW Visa for Skilled Nepali Workers

What is the Demand for SSW in Japan? (2025 Update)

Japanese Language Preparation Class

How to Apply for SSW Visa in Japan: A Complete Beginner’s Guide