Dusit Thani College, Thailand’s institute for hospitality education under Dusit International, has been certified to administer Japan’s Accommodation Industry Proficiency Test in Thailand, providing direct pathways for Thai talent as well as those from ASEAN member states to secure positions in Japan’s hospitality sector.
The certification follows the signing of an agreement on September 2, 2025, between Dusit Thani College, the General Incorporated Association Center for Accommodation Industry Proficiency Test, and the All Japan Ryokan Hotel Association, with support from the Kyoto Convention & Visitors Bureau and Jeducation language school in Bangkok.
As Thailand’s first certified testing centre, Dusit Thani College can now recruit and train Thai and candidates from ASEAN member countries through its hospitality and culinary arts programmes and facilitate their official skills certification locally.
Successful graduates will qualify for employment in Japan via the government’s Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) visa, introduced in 2019 to address labour shortages in sectors including F&B and hospitality.
Aligned with Dusit Thani College’s Talent Opportunity Programme (TOP), which prepares participants for entry-level roles in six months, the new pathway allows aspiring professionals to train, gain certification, and access employment in Japan.
The All Japan Ryokan Hotel Association, representing more than 15,000 traditional inns and hotels across Japan, will promote certified candidates to member employers through job fairs in Bangkok. Dusit Hotels and Resorts will also welcome graduates to its properties in Japan, including Dusit Thani Kyoto and Asai Kyoto Shijo, providing further opportunities for international placement.
Jeducation, a Japanese language school in Bangkok, will provide essential language training to ensure participants meet SSW visa requirements and are equipped for life and work in Japan.
John Lohr, executive director of external affairs at Dusit Thani College, said: “This collaboration directly addresses the hospitality skills shortage in Japan while creating exciting career opportunities for our students. By combining world-class training at Dusit Thani College with official certification and a clear pathway to employment, we are building a strong pipeline of talent that benefits both Thailand and Japan.”
Makoto Yamashita, area general manager – Kyoto, Dusit Hotels and Resorts, added: “This partnership underscores our commitment to developing future leaders in hospitality and giving them access to life-changing opportunities abroad. It is a win-win for our students, our partners, and the wider industry.”
Dusit Thani College will begin recruiting candidates for its TOP Japan Pathway programme in October 2025. The first examinations and employer recruitment fairs are scheduled for February 2026.
