SSW Food Service: Work in Japan's Hotels and Restaurants

Looking for legal, high-paying job opportunities in Japan’s restaurant and hospitality sector? Japan’s SSW Food Service visa could be your gateway to a better future. Whether you’re a high school graduate, have experience in hospitality, or just want to build a career abroad, this visa offers a structured, legal, and well-compensated path.

Table of Contents

What is an SSW Food Service Visa?
1. What is Tokutei Ginou Visa (SSW Program)?
2. Food Service - an SSW Category in Japan
3. Why Food Service Is in Demand
4. Who Is SSW Food Service For?
Why Work in Japan’s Food Industry Under SSW Visa?
1. Salary and Growth Potential
2. Legal Protection and Benefits
3. International Work Experience
SSW Food Service Jobs in Japan from Nepal
1. Job Categories for Nepali Workers
2. Where Are These Food Service Jobs Located?
3. What Food Service Employers Expect from SSW
SSW Food Service Salary in Japan for Nepalese
1. Monthly Salary Range
2. Benefits and Bonuses
3. Cost of Living in Japan for SSW
SSW Food Service 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 Food Service Visa from Nepal
6. Cost of the SSW Process
Food Service Industry SSW (i) Test: What You Need to Know
1. Test Structure and Format
2. Test Fee and Payment
3. Test Scheduling in Nepal
How to Apply for SSW Food Service from Nepal
1. Application Steps
2. Interview Tips for Nepalese Candidates
Common Challenges in the SSW Food Service Journey
1. Visa Rejection Reasons
2. Agency Scams and Misinformation
3. Language Struggles
4. Switching Jobs or Industries in SSW visa
Life in Japan for Nepalese Food Service Workers
1. Housing and Daily Life
2. Working Environment and Culture
3. Nepalese Community in Japan
Nepal Government Rules and SSW Quota for Japan
Train with Tokutei Ginou Ikusei Vocational College
FAQs on SSW Food Service in Japan from Nepal

What is an SSW Food Service Visa?

Japan’s SSW Food Service Visa allows skilled foreign nationals, including Nepalese workers, to legally work in Japan's growing restaurant, hotel, and food-related industries. It is part of the broader Specified Skilled Worker (Tokutei Ginou) visa system introduced in 2019 to fill labor shortages in 12 key industries, including the hospitality and food service sectors.

What is Tokutei Ginou Visa (SSW Program)?

The Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) visa, known as Tokutei Ginou in Japanese, is designed to fill labor shortages in 16 critical industries. It’s a government-backed visa that allows foreign nationals to work legally in Japan.

There are two types of SSW visas:

SSW Type 1 Visa	SSW Type 2 Visa
For workers in 12 industries, including food service. 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.

Industries Covered Under SSW (16 sectors)

Nursing Care
Building Cleaning Management
Manufacture of Industrial Products
Construction Industry
Shipbuilding and Ship Machinery Industry
Automobile Repair and Maintenance
Aviation Industry
Accommodation Industry
Automobile Transportation Business
Railway
Agriculture
Fishery and Aquaculture Industries
Manufacture of Food and Beverages
Food Service Industry
Forestry
Wood Industry

Why SSW for Food Service is in Demand?

Japan's food service sector is experiencing an acute labor shortage due to its aging population, low birth rate, and increasing demand from both domestic and international tourism. Restaurants, cafés, and catering services across the country struggle to find young, energetic staff, especially in metropolitan and tourist areas.

Number of Foreign Workers Japan Allows in This Sector

The Japanese government plans to accept over 53,000 foreign workers in the food service industry under the SSW Type 1 visa category over several years. This number is subject to revision based on labor needs and policy updates.

Who Is SSW Food Service For?

The SSW Food Service Visa is specifically designed for young, motivated individuals who are physically fit, eager to work in hospitality, and can adapt to Japanese work culture.

Eligibility Requirements for SSW in Japan’s Food Service 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 looking for global work experience
Hospitality and food service workers with 1+ years of experience
Vocational training graduates in hotel management or culinary arts
Young job seekers from Nepal with Japanese language training and strong work ethics

Why Work in Japan’s Food Industry Under SSW Visa?

From competitive salaries to respectful work culture, Japan offers numerous advantages for Nepalese youth seeking stable, safe, and rewarding careers in the food service sector through the SSW (Specified Skilled Worker) visa. This visa ensures not only legal entry into Japan’s workforce but also opportunities for professional development, cultural immersion, and long-term career prospects.

Salary and Growth Potential

One of the most attractive benefits of working in Japan under the SSW Food Service Visa is the high wage structure. The average starting salary for SSW food service workers ranges from ¥180,000 to ¥250,000 per month, which is approximately NPR 165,000 to 230,000 - significantly higher than what most Nepalese workers earn in Gulf countries for similar job roles.

Additionally:

Overtime pay is strictly regulated.
Workers are entitled to bonuses in some cases.
Night shifts and holiday work attract higher rates.

Japan values commitment, cleanliness, and punctuality. Workers who demonstrate good communication and skills often get promoted internally, moving from roles like:

Kitchen helper → Line cook → Floor manager → Shift supervisor Waiter → Head waiter → Assistant manager

Even though SSW Type 1 has a 5-year limit, experience gained may help you apply later for a work visa or a business visa if you wish to open or manage your own establishments.

Legal Protection and Benefits

Japan is globally recognized for its structured and fair labor system. As an SSW visa holder, you are:

Covered under National Health Insurance and Pension plans.
Entitled to paid annual leave, sick leave, and maternity leave (as per labor law).
Required to work 8 hours per day, with clear rules around overtime and rest days.

This level of protection is uncommon in other labor destinations and gives workers peace of mind and security.

The Japanese government has implemented:

Helplines in multiple languages for foreign workers.
A Monitoring System to ensure fair treatment.
Support services through Organization for Technical Intern Training (OTIT) and Immigration Services Agency.

These systems protect workers from exploitation, ensure their rights are upheld, and offer dispute resolution if needed.

International Work Experience

Working in Japan gives Nepalese youth the chance to immerse themselves in:

Japanese culture and customs
A disciplined and team-oriented work environment
Day-to-day interaction in Japanese, improving language fluency

Such cultural exposure is not only enriching on a personal level but also helps workers grow professionally.

After completing 3–5 years under the SSW visa, many workers return to Nepal with:

Real-world work experience in an advanced economy
Fluency in Japanese, useful in both Nepal and abroad
The potential to work in Japanese hotels, restaurants, or language institutes back home
A higher chance of qualifying for skilled migration routes to Canada, Australia, or even PR pathways in Japan (in limited categories)

SSW Food Service Jobs in Japan from Nepal

Nepalese workers can explore a wide range of job opportunities under Japan’s SSW food service visa, from kitchens to customer-facing roles in restaurants and hotels. The food and hospitality sector faces an acute labor shortage in Japan creating a high demand for foreign workers, which offers a great opportunity for thousands of Nepalese youth to serve and grow in a professional environment.

Job Categories for Nepali Workers

Under the SSW Food Service visa, the job roles are not limited to just “kitchen work.” They cover a diverse range of positions depending on your skills, interests, and Japanese language proficiency.

1. Kitchen Helper

Assisting chefs in food prep (washing, chopping, arranging)
Cleaning kitchen equipment
Maintaining hygiene standards
Suitable for entry-level candidates with basic food knowledge

2. Cook / Chef Assistant

Assisting in actual cooking under a chef’s supervision
Special roles in ramen shops, izakaya, or sushi bars
Often requires some previous cooking experience
Offers fast-track promotion to line cook or lead assistant

3. Waiter / Waitress

Taking orders, serving food, clearing tables
Requires polite behavior and conversational Japanese
Often placed in hotels, family restaurants, or traditional eateries

4. Bento Shop Worker

Packing and selling bento lunch boxes
Morning shifts, great for beginners
Suitable for workers with limited Japanese language

5. Restaurant Floor Staff

Welcoming guests, guiding to seats
Cashier duties, sometimes assisting in cleaning
Critical for restaurants in tourist-heavy areas

These roles are open to both men and women, and training is provided either pre-departure or upon arrival in Japan.

Where Are These Food Service Jobs Located?

1. High-Demand Cities

Japan’s urban centers are experiencing the highest demand for foreign food service workers due to their population density and tourism industries:

Tokyo – Family restaurants, cafés, hotel kitchens, sushi chains
Osaka – Fast food and ramen shops, izakaya
Nagoya – Bento shops, convenience store food counters
Fukuoka – Beachfront restaurants, tourist hubs
Hokkaido – Ski resorts and winter hotels

2. Tourist Areas with Labor Shortages

Japan’s tourist destinations, especially after COVID-19, are recovering rapidly and require foreign labor:

Kyoto – Traditional ryokan and Japanese restaurants
Okinawa – Island resorts with beachside cafés
Mount Fuji Region – Guest houses and noodle shops
Universal Studios, Tokyo Disneyland – Cafeterias and food courts inside amusement parks

Placement in these areas often includes shared accommodation, transport allowance, and Japanese language support.

What Food Service Employers Expect from SSW

Japanese employers are highly professional and expect foreign SSW food service workers to adhere to a certain standard:

Cleanliness and proper hygiene practices (hand washing, clean uniforms, mask use, etc.)
Time management and shift discipline are critical.
Polite and respectful behaviour for everyone.
Basic Japanese language skills (listening and speaking)
Ability to understand instructions and communicate with co-workers and use of polite Japanese phrases with customers

SSW Food Service Salary in Japan for Nepalese

Japan offers attractive pay packages under the SSW Food Service visa, making it an ideal legal work opportunity for Nepalese youth. Besides the base salary, you can earn more through overtime, weekend shifts, bonuses, and benefits, far better than most Gulf countries where Nepalese often work in lower-paid roles with fewer rights. Let’s break down what to expect.

Monthly Salary Range

Nepalese SSW food service workers typically earn between ¥180,000 to ¥250,000 per month.

Component	Amount in Yen	Amount in NPR (Approx.)
Base Salary	¥180,000–250,000	NPR 165,000 – 230,000
Overtime (20 hrs/month)	+¥20,000–40,000	+NPR 18,000 – 37,000
Weekend / Holiday Bonus	+¥10,000–15,000	+NPR 9,000 – 14,000
Total Average	¥220,000–¥280,000	NPR 200,000 – 260,000

Currency Conversion: 1 JPY ≈ 0.92 NPR (may vary).

Many employers even provide free meals or discounted canteen services which helps save more.

Benefits and Bonuses

Japanese companies not only pay well, they also provide several legal and regulated employee benefits under the SSW program:

1. Transportation Allowance

Monthly train/bus passes covered by employer Or reimbursement of actual travel cost to/from work
Typical allowance: ¥5,000–¥15,000 per month

2. Housing Subsidy or Dormitory

Shared dormitory or private room depending on location
Rent partly or fully covered (especially in rural areas)
Utilities may be deducted from salary (usually minimal)

3. Overtime Pay

Overtime is paid at 125% of hourly wage (regulated by law)
Overwork beyond 40 hrs/week is strictly monitored
Some restaurants offer double pay on holidays

4. Bonus (Not Guaranteed)

Some employers offer bi-annual bonuses (summer + winter)
Depends on company profits and performance
Can range from ¥30,000 to ¥100,000/year

Cost of Living in Japan for SSW

Understanding salary is incomplete without understanding expenses. As an SSW in Food Service, your:

Total Monthly Living Cost = Around ¥50,000 – ¥90,000, with a Salary potential of ¥220,000–¥280,000.

Therefore, Monthly Saving Potential = Around ¥130,000 – ¥190,000 (NPR 120,000–175,000)

You can use the saved money for future investment, or even send it to your family in Nepal.

Here’s what a Nepalese SSW worker typically spends monthly in Japan:

Expense Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
Rent (shared room)	¥10,000–¥30,000	Dorm or shared housing
Food & Groceries	¥20,000–¥30,000	Cheaper with canteen access
Transportation	¥5,000–¥10,000	May be covered by employer
Utilities (if separate)	¥5,000–¥10,000	Gas, water, electricity
Mobile & Internet	¥3,000–¥5,000	SIM card + WiFi
Misc. (clothing, eating out, etc.)	¥5,000–¥10,000	Personal use

Note: Living in rural areas or company dorms increases savings significantly.

SSW Food Service Visa Requirements for Nepalese

To apply for Japan’s SSW Food Service Visa, Nepalese applicants must meet specific criteria related to age, education, language proficiency, and technical skills. This visa ensures that only qualified and job-ready individuals legally enter Japan’s food service industry.

Here's a breakdown of the complete eligibility and documentation requirements.

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 work conditions clauses under contract

Language Requirements

To work in Japan, you must prove your Japanese language proficiency. This is a mandatory requirement, even for simple food service roles like kitchen helper or server.

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 (Japan Foundation Test for Basic Japanese) is recommended for food service SSW applicants due to its simplicity and direct focus on workplace Japanese.

Where to Learn Japanese?

Join a 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 Food Service Skills Test, also known as the Prometric test. This verifies your practical understanding of restaurant operations, hygiene, and customer service.

About Food Service Skills Test:

Criteria	Description
Conducted by	Prometric (on behalf of the Japanese government)
Format	Multiple-choice and visual questions
Language Options	English and Japanese
Topics Covered	Cleanliness, serving methods, food safety, customer handling
Duration	Around 1 hour
Passing Score	65 - 70%
Exam Fee	USD 33
Result Validity	10 Years from the date of issue
Retake Options (if failed)	You can retake the test after 45 days.
Test Centers in Nepal	Find SSW Test Centres in Nepal

Required Documents for SSW Food Service 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 Food Service 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 8,000–10,000
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.

Food Service Industry SSW (i) Test: What You Need to Know

Nepalese applicants aiming for Japan's SSW Food Service Visa must pass a job-specific skill test conducted by Prometric Japan. This assessment ensures candidates possess the necessary skills for roles in Japan's food service sector.

Test Structure and Format

Test Type: Computer-Based Testing (CBT)
Duration: Approximately 70 minutes
Question Types: Multiple-choice questions covering:

Food safety and hygiene practices
Customer service and handling
Basic operational procedures in food service

Languages Available: English and Japanese

Test Fee and Payment

Current Test Fee: USD 33 (approximately NPR 4,400)
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:

Visit the Prometric SSW registration page.
Ensure your name matches exactly with your identification documents.

2. Select Test Details:

Choose "Food Service Industry" 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.

Test Centers in Nepal:

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 Food Service from Nepal

Applying for the SSW Food Service Visa from Nepal involves a structured process, ensuring candidates are well-prepared for employment in Japan's food service industry.

Application Steps

Training: Enroll in a recognized institution for Japanese language and food service training.
Language Test: Pass the JFT-Basic or JLPT N4 Japanese language proficiency test.
Skills Test: Pass the Prometric Food Service Industry Skills 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 Food Service 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

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:

Always verify agencies through the Department of Foreign Employment Nepal.

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 Food Service Workers

Working under Japan’s SSW food service visa isn’t just about earning money it’s about adapting to a new lifestyle, navigating Japanese culture, and finding community. For Nepalese food service workers, understanding daily life, housing, and social connections in Japan can make the experience rewarding and manageable.

Housing and Daily Life

1. Types of Accommodation

Employer-Provided Dormitories
- Most food service companies in Japan provide dormitory-style housing for their SSW employees.
- Basic furnishings include a bed, small table, refrigerator, washing machine, and air conditioner.
- Dorm fees are usually deducted from the monthly salary (¥10,000–¥30,000/month).
- Utility costs may be shared or covered by the employer.
Shared Apartments
- Workers can choose to live with fellow Nepalese or other foreign nationals.
- Rent is often more affordable when split among 2–4 roommates (¥20,000–¥50,000/person).
- Offers more privacy and freedom compared to dorms.
Private Rentals
- Requires a guarantor, security deposit (shikikin), and key money (reikin).
- Monthly rent can range from ¥40,000 to ¥80,000 depending on location.
- Less common among new SSW visa holders due to cost and documentation.

2. Daily Essentials

Transportation: Efficient train and bus systems. IC cards like Suica or Pasmo are used for fare.
Shopping: 100-yen shops, supermarkets, and Nepali groceries in urban areas.
Banking: Must open a Japanese bank account to receive salary. Japan Post Bank (Yūcho) is commonly used.
Healthcare: Enrolled in the National Health Insurance system. Monthly contributions around ¥2,000–¥5,000.

3. Food and Cooking

Japanese Meals: Bento boxes, ramen, curry rice, sushi, and konbini meals are cheap and accessible.
Nepali Cuisine: Dal-bhat, momo, and achar ingredients are available in major cities.
Cooking: Many dormitories and shared flats have basic kitchens. Gas stoves or induction heaters are standard.

Working Environment and Culture

1. Workplace Behavior and Expectations

Punctuality: Being on time is taken seriously—arrive 10–15 minutes early.
Uniforms: Neat, clean, and mandatory. Often provided by employers.
Senpai-Kouhai System: Respect for seniors is deeply ingrained. Younger or newer staff should greet and listen carefully.
Politeness: Use of keigo (formal Japanese) when speaking to customers and seniors is expected.

2. Cleanliness and Discipline

Cleanliness is part of the work culture: shoes off indoors, personal hygiene prioritized.
Workers often help with cleaning duties after shifts, including floors and restrooms.

3. Teamwork and Communication

“Hō-Ren-Sō” is key:

Hōkoku (Report)
Renraku (Inform)
Sōdan (Consult)

Cooperation with team members, even during high-pressure lunch/dinner rushes, is essential.

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 food service. 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 DFE 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., food service 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 Food Service Quota from Nepal

The Government of Nepal and Japan have signed a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) to ensure orderly migration of workers under 16 sectors, including food service.

Current Annual Quota for SSW from Nepal

As of 2024–2025, Japan has opened the door to thousands of foreign workers under the SSW visa. Here’s how the food service category looks for Nepalese applicants:

Fiscal Year	Total Japan Intake (All Nations)	Food Service Sector Quota
2023	70,000 +	20,000
2024	85,000 +	25,000
2025 (Forecast)	100,000 +	30,000

Trends and Future Forecasts

Growing Demand: Japan’s aging population and labor shortage in restaurants, cafes, and fast-food chains are increasing demand for Nepalese food service workers.
High Pass Rates: Nepalese candidates are performing well in language and skill exams, encouraging Japanese employers to seek more hires from Nepal.
Positive Bilateral Ties: Japan continues to prioritize Nepal due to discipline, cultural adaptability, and fewer legal issues among its workers.

Train with Tokutei Ginou Ikusei Vocational College

Preparing for a food service 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 food service training, we provide a comprehensive curriculum tailored to Japan’s workplace requirements.

Courses We Offer:

Japanese Language Training (JFT-Basic / JLPT N4/N5)
Food Service Basics and Practical sessions on:
- Food hygiene
- Japanese-style customer service (omotenashi)
- Restaurant operations (kitchen & front desk roles)
- 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 restaurants, hotels, fast-food chains, 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 Food Service in Japan from Nepal

1. What is food service?

Food service involves preparing, serving, and handling food and drinks in restaurants, cafes, and hotels.

2. How much does a SSW food service worker earn in Japan?

Nepalese workers earn ¥180,000–¥250,000/month (approx. NPR 165,000–230,000), depending on the location and experience.

3. What is the SSW exam in Japan?

It includes a Japanese language test (JFT-Basic or JLPT N4) and a skill test on hygiene, safety, and customer service.

4. Do I need JLPT or JFT-Basic for food service?

Yes, you must pass JFT-Basic or JLPT N4 to qualify for the visa.

5. What happens if I fail the skills test?

You must retake the test. There is no limit on attempts, but proper training is recommended.

6. How much does it cost from SSW training to placement?

The total cost ranges from NPR 250,000–400,000, including training, tests, and agency fees.

7. Can I take my family to Japan under SSW visa?

No, SSW Type 1 does not allow family members. Family is only allowed under SSW Type 2, which food service does not currently support.

8. How to pass the skill test?

Take SSW-focused training, practice mock tests, and learn basic Japanese food safety and customer service terms.

Also Read
Work in Japan from Nepal: Visa & Procedure Guide 2025

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