Japan to Expand Skilled Worker Visa Program to Address Labor Shortage

Japan’s cabinet on Friday has given its approval to a plan that seeks to expand the scope of the blue-collar skilled worker visa program. This significant shift in the country’s immigration policy aims to address the severe labour shortage by creating a path to permanent residency for foreign workers.

The plan includes increasing the number of industries covered by the visa and implementing language and skill examinations for applicants in the newly added sectors.

Expanding Skilled Worker Visa Program

Current Limitations

Until now, the skilled worker visa program was limited to the construction and shipbuilding sectors. Proficient labourers in these industries could upgrade their status to the Specified Skilled Worker No. 2 visa, which allows for indefinite renewals and the inclusion of family members.

Widening the Scope

The government’s approved plan expands the skilled worker visa program to include an additional nine industries, such as the fishery, agriculture, and hotel sectors. Foreign workers holding the Specified Skilled Worker No. 1 visa in these sectors will now have the opportunity to apply for the No. 2 visa, provided they pass the Japanese language and technical skills examinations.

Addressing Labor Shortage and Integration

Prime Minister Fumio Kishida emphasized the importance of promoting the smooth acceptance of foreign workers to address the country’s severe labour shortage. The expansion of the skilled worker visa program is seen as a critical step in overcoming this challenge.

The government plans to solicit public opinion and aims to start holding language and skill examinations for applicants in the newly added sectors in the fall. This inclusive approach ensures stakeholders’ perspectives are considered in the program’s implementation.

Current Statistics and Need for Expansion

According to the Immigration Services Agency of Japan, as of March, approximately 150,000 foreigners held the No. 1 visa, while the number of No. 2 visa holders was only 11. This disparity highlights the limited scope of the current specified skilled worker visa system.

Various industries have called for expanding the No. 2 residency status to retain their foreign workers. The government’s decision acknowledges the need to meet industry demands and secure skilled professionals in sectors beyond construction and shipbuilding.

Considerations and Exemptions

The proposed changes to the skilled worker visa program will not affect individuals working as carers. Japan already has a visa specifically designed for foreign carers certified in the country. This visa allows for indefinite renewals and enables carers to bring their families with them.

Bottomline

Japan’s decision to expand the skilled worker visa program marks a significant departure from its restrictive immigration policy. By broadening the range of industries covered by the visa and facilitating the pathway to permanent residency for foreign workers, Japan aims to address its severe labour shortage.

This expansion recognizes the invaluable contributions foreign workers can make to the Japanese workforce and paves the way for economic growth and development.