Japanese — Exams & Pathways

JFT-Basic

A basic Japanese test (around N4 level) used to qualify for the Specified Skilled Worker visa.

The JFT-Basic (Japan Foundation Test for Basic Japanese) checks whether you have the everyday Japanese needed to live and work in Japan — roughly JLPT N4 level. It is one of the accepted language proofs for the Specified Skilled Worker (Tokutei Ginou) visa.

It is computer-based and offered frequently, which suits workers heading for SSW fields like manufacturing, food service and caregiving. Either JFT-Basic or JLPT N4 typically clears the language gate.

What level / visa it maps to

≈ JLPT N4 everyday Japanese; a language proof for the SSW visa.

Frequently asked questions

What level is the JFT-Basic?

Roughly JLPT N4 — the everyday Japanese needed to live and work in Japan.

What is JFT-Basic used for?

It is one of the accepted language proofs for the Specified Skilled Worker (Tokutei Ginou) visa, for fields like manufacturing, food service and caregiving.

JFT-Basic or JLPT N4 — which should I take?

Either typically clears the SSW language gate. JFT-Basic is computer-based and offered frequently, which suits workers heading to Japan.

We'll be straight with you about the level and timeline your goal actually needs — then get you there.

Related terms

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