Introduction

Many companies considering transitioning to the Specified Skilled Worker 3 program under the Technical Intern Training system ask if it is possible to change the training site. As of 2025, changing the training site is feasible under specific conditions, but it requires meeting excellent eligibility criteria and following rigorous procedures. This article explains whether changing the training implementer is possible during the transition to Specified Skilled Worker 3 and outlines the specific conditions based on the latest legal provisions.

Basic Requirements for Transitioning to Specified Skilled Worker 3

Mandatory Conditions:

1. Passing a Practical Examination Equivalent to Level 3 Skill Test
   • Must pass the practical examination of the Specialized Skill Evaluation Test before completing the 2nd category.
2. Temporary Return to Home Country for Over One Month
   • Return to the home country for more than one month but less than one year between the end of the 2nd category and the start of the 3rd category.
3. Continuation of the Same Occupation and Work
   • Continuation of the same technology within the target occupations (77 occupations, 135 works).

Excellent Eligibility Criteria for Companies

• Training Implementer Must Be Certified as Excellent with 72 Points or More out of 120
• Supervising Organization Must Obtain Permission for General Supervision Business
• Desirable to Have a Skill Test Pass Rate of 80% or Higher Over the Past Three Years

Possibility and Conditions for Changing the Training Implementer

Cases Where Changes Are Possible:

• Transfer Within a Group Company
  • Reorganization such as from a parent company to a subsidiary (company-type).
• Change Accompanied by a Change in Supervising Organization
  • If the new supervising organization has obtained excellent certification.
• Special Exceptions When Continuing Training is Difficult
  • Support for changes by the organization in cases of bankruptcy or recognition of improper conduct.

Prohibited Cases:

• Transfers Involving Changes in Occupation or Work
• Movement to Non-Excellent Companies
• Unauthorized Changes Before Approval of the 3rd Category Plan

List of Necessary Documents

• Application Form for Certification of Changes in the Technical Intern Training Plan (Form No. 4)
• Certificate of Registered Matters for New and Old Training Implementers
• Proof of Compliance with Excellent Eligibility Criteria (for the new implementer)
• Registration Certificate for Training Site Change Support Site

Common Misconceptions and Points of Caution

Misconception 1: “It is possible to freely change jobs once transitioning to the 3rd category.”
→ Limited to moving within the same occupation and between excellent companies.

Misconception 2: “Automatic transition is possible if the examination is passed.”
→ Requires application for plan certification and change of status of residence.

Points of Caution:

• Procedure Period: Typically takes 2 to 3 months.
• Limit on Number of Changes: Only one change is allowed (with valid reasons).

Conclusion

Changing the training implementer during the transition to Specified Skilled Worker 3 requires selecting a new implementer that meets excellent eligibility criteria and adhering to rigorous procedures. The revised law effective April 2025 aims to strengthen support systems during changes, but document preparation has become more complex. Early consultation with an administrative scrivener well-versed in international business is crucial for a smooth transition.