#Japan #Tokyo #National Exam #Will of Work #Care Worker

Record Success for Foreign Care Workers in Japan

In a remarkable feat, Will of Work, a company dedicated to comprehensive staffing solutions, announced that 137 foreign care workers it supports successfully passed the National Care Worker Exam conducted in January 2026. This achievement is particularly significant as it reflects the effectiveness of the company's training and support programs aimed at assisting foreign professionals in the caregiving sector. 292 foreign workers employed in care facilities across Japan participated in this rigorous examination, resulting in a commendable pass rate of 46.9%, far exceeding the national average for foreign test-takers, which hovers around 31-33%.

The successful candidates comprised a diverse group, with 87 from Vietnam, 42 from Myanmar, 6 from Indonesia, and single candidates from China and South Korea. These individuals are now making significant contributions in care facilities spread across Japan, including in Kanagawa, Saitama, Tokyo, and Osaka. Their success is a testament to the ongoing support provided by Will of Work, which includes educational programs that focus on Japanese language skills and exam preparation.

The Importance of Acquiring Care Worker Qualifications

Japan is currently facing a severe shortage of caregivers due to an aging population, with projections indicating that by 2040, approximately 570,000 care workers will be needed. In response to this escalating demand, the government encourages the integration of foreign care workers into the industry. As the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare pointed out in its findings, it is vital for foreign workers to obtain the Care Worker qualification to establish a long-lasting career in Japan.

The residency status for foreign care workers under the Specified Skills Visa allows for a maximum stay of five years. However, those who obtain the Care Worker qualification can switch to a more permanent care visa, which allows them to continue their professional journey in Japan.

This pathway, however, doesn’t come without challenges. Many foreign professionals face significant hurdles such as mastering the Japanese language, understanding specialized terminology, and balancing work with study to prepare for the exam. To support these individuals, care providers and support organizations, like Will of Work, must enhance their language training and exam preparation initiatives.

Will of Work’s Support Structure

During the 38th Care Worker Examination, the impressive pass rate of 46.9% was not just a stroke of luck; it was the result of the structured support provided by Will of Work. Of the 64 participants from the company’s care training academy, 18 successfully passed the exam, demonstrating the efficacy of their training programs. Will of Work operates the Will of Care Academy, which not only assists in practical training but also provides language education by native-speaking instructors fluent in Vietnamese, Indonesian, and Burmese, ensuring that the trainees receive comprehensive support throughout their learning journey.

In collaboration with approximately 520 educational facilities nationwide through Japan Education Create, Will of Work ensures that even those living outside major cities can access educational programs. This initiative underscores the company’s commitment to improving accessibility in the caregiving profession.

Voices from the Successful Candidates

Several success stories have emerged from the exam, highlighting the determination and resilience of the candidates. Nguyen Ngoc Thanh Kieu, one of the successful candidates from Vietnam, expressed sheer joy upon passing the exam and credited her ability to study alongside work to the encouragement from those around her. She remarked, “I felt fulfilled when I received gratitude from the users I cared for.”

Similarly, Tran Thi Anh shared her initial uncertainty after a previous unsuccessful attempt but found strength in her mother's support, emphasizing the importance of perseverance. Duong Thi Bich spoke of the surprising moment she learned of her success and noted that the experience solidified her aspirations to enhance her skills further.

A Commitment to Future Growth

Yosuke Sumi, general manager of Life Care Division at Will of Work, highlighted the company’s achievements and expressed pride in the hard work exhibited by all participants. Addressing the growing demand for foreign caregivers, he emphasized the ongoing need for adequate certification and career development support in order to foster their long-term success in Japan.

Going forward, Will of Work aims to bolster its framework for supporting foreign caregivers by enhancing language education and training programs while facilitating pathways for job matching after obtaining their qualifications. This initiative will not only help address the persistent labor shortage in Japanese caregiving facilities but also aid in elevating the overall quality of care services in the nation.

In conclusion, the achievements of these dedicated foreign care workers represent a significant step toward a more inclusive and sustainable caregiving workforce in Japan. Will of Work is committed to playing a pivotal role in this transformation.