16/01/2026
What You Need to Know About Designated Activities Visa No. 55 (特定活動55号)
This visa is for foreign nationals who want to work as bus, taxi, or truck drivers in Japan under the Specified Skilled Worker (特定技能1号) system, but need preparation time first.
What is Designated Activities No. 55?
It is a temporary visa that allows candidates to stay in Japan to obtain a Japanese driver’s license and complete required training before switching to the Specified Skilled Worker visa.
Who is it for?
• Foreign nationals preparing for driver jobs in Japan
• Those who still need a Japanese driver’s license or mandatory training
• Candidates coming from overseas or changing visa status
Length of stay (maximum)
• Truck drivers: up to 6 months
• Taxi / bus drivers: up to 1 year
This period cannot be extended.
What you can do during this period
• Get or convert to a Japanese driver’s license
• Complete legal training (required for taxi and bus drivers)
• Do limited non-driving work allowed by the company while preparing
Important notes
• If you fail to complete the requirements within the period, you cannot switch to 特定技能1号
• Time spent under 特定活動55号 does not count toward the Specified Skilled Worker stay period
This visa helps foreign drivers prepare legally and smoothly before starting full employment in Japan’s transport industry.
