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Japan Forward
6 days ago
- Politics
- Japan Forward
Immigration in Japan: Accepting Foreigners to Secure a Workforce
このページを 日本語 で読む What is immigration, and what does it mean to be an immigrant? In her book, Is Japan Unwelcoming to Refugees? (Keio University Press, 2024), author Fusako Yanase begins with a central question. That is, "How can people of different nationalities, languages, cultures, skin tones, and eye colors work together? How can we build a prosperous life in the same society?" She explores how we might see not only Japanese citizens, but also foreign workers, international students, and even refugees as equal participants in a shared social fabric. In this second installment of a series, she turns her focus to the special residency statuses that allow foreign nationals to work in Japan. Specifically, those are the Specified Skilled Worker, Technical Intern Training, and forthcoming Employment for Skill Development programs. Second in the series. Read the series, Immigration in Japan According to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, as of October 2024, Japan employed 2,302,587 foreign workers. That represented an increase of 250,000 from 2023. The number of businesses hiring foreign labor also rose by 20,000, reaching a total of 340,000. By nationality, Vietnamese workers made up the largest share at 570,000 (24.8%). Chinese workers ranked second with 400,000 (17.8%), followed by Filipinos with 240,000 (10.7%). In April 2019, Japan upgraded its Immigration Bureau, formerly a division within the Ministry of Justice, into the Immigration Services Agency. This marked a significant policy shift toward welcoming more foreign workers. At the same time, it introduced a new visa category, the Specified Skilled Worker, which has now been in place for five years. To foster better integration between foreign workers and local communities, the government launched a range of support initiatives. These include improvements to living and working conditions, Japanese language education, and other essential services. From FY2022 to FY2026, the government reviews and refines these measures annually as part of a long-term strategy to build a more inclusive and cohesive society. Japan's Immigration Control Act currently defines 28 residency statuses. They cover everything from short-term stays such as tourism to international students, technical intern trainees, and spouses of Japanese nationals. Work-related categories for specialized and technical professions are also included. In 2019, a 29th category — Specified Skilled Worker — was introduced as part of a broader government policy. This new status applies to 16 designated industries, including nursing care, construction, manufacturing, agriculture, and food processing. The Specified Skilled Worker visa was introduced to address labor shortages. It still requires applicants to demonstrate a certain level of expertise or technical skill through academic or work credentials. However, the requirements for Japanese language proficiency and job-specific knowledge have been somewhat relaxed. In exchange, visa holders are entitled to a range of structured support measures. These are often referred to as "targeted support." They include orientation sessions on daily life in Japan, assistance with learning Japanese, help with complaints or consultations, and programs that encourage interaction between foreign residents and local communities. Workers are also allowed to change jobs within the same industry and can access services at Hello Work, Japan's network of public employment offices. The system is designed to prevent foreign workers from being left isolated or unsupported. Above all, helping them acquire a basic level of Japanese is considered essential for their success and integration. Tokyo Regional Immigration Services Bureau Officials introduced the Technical Intern Training program to support developing countries through skill and knowledge transfer. It was aimed at transferring skills and knowledge to workers from developing countries. Today, approximately 410,000 foreign nationals reside in Japan under this system. However, many domestic employers have used it primarily to fill labor shortages with low-cost labor. As a result, many foreign workers face harassment, unpaid wages, and poor working conditions. In March 2024, in response to these persistent problems, the government announced a complete overhaul of the program. The new framework shifts away from the original goal of foreign aid and instead focuses on training and securing foreign talent to support Japan's own industrial development. Set to launch by 2027, the revised system will be renamed Employment for Skill Development. Under the new program, foreign workers will undergo a three-year training period aimed at achieving the skill level required for a Specified Skilled Worker (i) visa. This represents a significant policy pivot from international development assistance to domestic workforce strategy. To ensure a smooth transition, the current technical intern system will continue to operate for roughly three years after the launch of Employment for Skill Development. During this period, both systems will run in parallel, giving employers and workers time to adjust. Authorities aim to complete the full transition by 2030. Beyond visa-specific reforms, the Japanese government has introduced a broad set of measures to support the integration of foreign residents and strengthen the systems that serve them. These initiatives cover all legal foreign residents in Japan, not just Specified Skilled Workers, whether they are studying, working, or in training. Fusako Yanase (right) with JAPAN Forward Editor-in-Chief, Yasuo Naito (©JAPAN Forward) Funded by the national government and implemented in cooperation with local authorities, these policies aim to promote coexistence and provide practical support across various aspects of daily life. It is important to note, however, that these support measures are not available to individuals residing in Japan without legal status. Continues in Part 3: What to Know About Entry Limits Author: Fusako Yanase In addition to being an expert on immigration, Yanase is an award-winning author and former Honorary Chair of the Certified NPO Association for Aid and Relief, Japan . このページを 日本語 で読む
Yahoo
05-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Is Scottish care sector at risk from immigration shake-up?
New immigration rules risk deepening Scotland's care sector crisis amid workforce shortages, writes Carolyn Bowie The UK Government's changes to immigration rules for care workers marks a significant shift for Scotland's health and social care sector. Whilst aimed at improving oversight and reducing exploitation, these new rules, along with further proposed restrictions, could intensify recruitment and compliance pressures on care providers already struggling with chronic workforce shortages. In February 2022, the Skilled Worker visa route was expanded to include care workers, triggering a rapid rise in overseas recruitment; numbers jumped from 37,000 in 2022 to 108,000 in 2023. Alongside this, 120,000 dependants also entered the UK, an imbalance that has prompted government action. Throughout 2024, the Home Office cracked down on care sector sponsors, revoking 1,494 licences, which was a significant shift from 337 in 2023. This left around 40,000 migrant workers in the UK without valid sponsorship, many of whom remain ready to rejoin the workforce if given the opportunity. (Image: Carolyn Bowie is a Principal Associate and Business Immigration specialist) Which 2024/2025 key reforms is the care sector already grappling with? Dependents Banned: From 11 March 2024, care workers are no longer allowed to bring dependents to the UK. The government argues this helps control net migration, eventhough it makes the UK a less attractive destination for skilled overseas carers. Mandatory CQC Registration: Care providers hiring via the Skilled Worker route must be registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC). This aims to prevent unethical employers from exploiting workers, ensuring greater oversight. Rising Costs: From 9 April 2025, the Certificate of Sponsorship fee increased from £239 to £525. This cost cannot be passed on to the worker, adding financial pressure on employers. Application fees across immigration routes, including Skilled Worker visas and settlement, are also rising. Domestic Recruitment Priority: Care providers must now demonstrate attempts to hire from within the UK, especially among displaced international workers, before sponsoring new recruits from overseas. While intended to reduce dependency on foreign labour, it may hinder providers in areas with limited local applicants and put burden onto councils and carers. Minimum Salary Increased: The minimum salary for a Health and Care Visa has risen to £25,000, up from £23,200, to align with labour market conditions. White Paper proposals: What are we expecting? Ending Overseas Recruitment: Perhaps the most controversial proposal is the phased removal of the care worker route for new overseas applicants. If implemented, this would prevent care providers from sponsoring new migrant workers altogether, raising alarm in a sector already grappling with staff shortages. Limited Transition Period: Current overseas care workers will be allowed to remain, change sponsors, and apply for settlement under a three-year transition period; however, this timeframe, and the policy itself, will remain under review. Settlement Delayed: The time required to qualify for Indefinite Leave to Remain may double, from five to ten years, for many care workers, impacting long-term workforce planning and staff retention. What employers should do now ■ Review Sponsorship Systems: Ensure full compliance with record-keeping, reporting, and monitoring duties. ■ Train HR Teams: Equip recruitment staff with up-to-date knowledge of immigration rules and processes. ■ Plan for Domestic Recruitment: Begin developing local training and recruitment pathways to reduce reliance on overseas workers where possible. ■ Audit Pay Structures: Ensure staff salaries meet the updated minimum thresholds. ■ Engage Sponsored Staff: Hold discussions with current employees about their status and future options. The challenges ahead? These reforms underscore the government's commitment to reducing net migration and curbing visa misuse. However, the new restrictions carry significant risks for care providers; tighter eligibility criteria, higher costs and more administrative burdens, all at a time of high demand for care workers. Smaller providers may be disproportionately affected, lacking the resources to navigate complex compliance demands or absorb the additional costs; this could affect thousands in care. The UK's evolving immigration policy represents a turning point for health and social care. Whilst efforts to improve standards and support domestic recruitment are welcome, a blanket reduction in overseas recruitment risks destabilising a sector already under pressure; this could directly impact the quality (and quantity) of care received by reliant on care provision. A more balanced approach, supporting ethical international hiring alongside investment in local skills, will be essential to sustaining care services in Scotland and across the UK. Carolyn Bowie is a Principal Associate and Business Immigration specialist with leading national law firm, Weightmans
The Herald Scotland
05-06-2025
- Business
- The Herald Scotland
Is Scottish care sector at risk from immigration shake-up?
Whilst aimed at improving oversight and reducing exploitation, these new rules, along with further proposed restrictions, could intensify recruitment and compliance pressures on care providers already struggling with chronic workforce shortages. In February 2022, the Skilled Worker visa route was expanded to include care workers, triggering a rapid rise in overseas recruitment; numbers jumped from 37,000 in 2022 to 108,000 in 2023. Alongside this, 120,000 dependants also entered the UK, an imbalance that has prompted government action. Throughout 2024, the Home Office cracked down on care sector sponsors, revoking 1,494 licences, which was a significant shift from 337 in 2023. This left around 40,000 migrant workers in the UK without valid sponsorship, many of whom remain ready to rejoin the workforce if given the opportunity. (Image: Carolyn Bowie is a Principal Associate and Business Immigration specialist) Which 2024/2025 key reforms is the care sector already grappling with? Dependents Banned: From 11 March 2024, care workers are no longer allowed to bring dependents to the UK. The government argues this helps control net migration, eventhough it makes the UK a less attractive destination for skilled overseas carers. Mandatory CQC Registration: Care providers hiring via the Skilled Worker route must be registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC). This aims to prevent unethical employers from exploiting workers, ensuring greater oversight. Rising Costs: From 9 April 2025, the Certificate of Sponsorship fee increased from £239 to £525. This cost cannot be passed on to the worker, adding financial pressure on employers. Application fees across immigration routes, including Skilled Worker visas and settlement, are also rising. Domestic Recruitment Priority: Care providers must now demonstrate attempts to hire from within the UK, especially among displaced international workers, before sponsoring new recruits from overseas. While intended to reduce dependency on foreign labour, it may hinder providers in areas with limited local applicants and put burden onto councils and carers. Minimum Salary Increased: The minimum salary for a Health and Care Visa has risen to £25,000, up from £23,200, to align with labour market conditions. White Paper proposals: What are we expecting? Ending Overseas Recruitment: Perhaps the most controversial proposal is the phased removal of the care worker route for new overseas applicants. If implemented, this would prevent care providers from sponsoring new migrant workers altogether, raising alarm in a sector already grappling with staff shortages. Limited Transition Period: Current overseas care workers will be allowed to remain, change sponsors, and apply for settlement under a three-year transition period; however, this timeframe, and the policy itself, will remain under review. Settlement Delayed: The time required to qualify for Indefinite Leave to Remain may double, from five to ten years, for many care workers, impacting long-term workforce planning and staff retention. What employers should do now ■ Review Sponsorship Systems: Ensure full compliance with record-keeping, reporting, and monitoring duties. ■ Train HR Teams: Equip recruitment staff with up-to-date knowledge of immigration rules and processes. ■ Plan for Domestic Recruitment: Begin developing local training and recruitment pathways to reduce reliance on overseas workers where possible. ■ Audit Pay Structures: Ensure staff salaries meet the updated minimum thresholds. ■ Engage Sponsored Staff: Hold discussions with current employees about their status and future options. The challenges ahead? These reforms underscore the government's commitment to reducing net migration and curbing visa misuse. However, the new restrictions carry significant risks for care providers; tighter eligibility criteria, higher costs and more administrative burdens, all at a time of high demand for care workers. Smaller providers may be disproportionately affected, lacking the resources to navigate complex compliance demands or absorb the additional costs; this could affect thousands in care. The UK's evolving immigration policy represents a turning point for health and social care. Whilst efforts to improve standards and support domestic recruitment are welcome, a blanket reduction in overseas recruitment risks destabilising a sector already under pressure; this could directly impact the quality (and quantity) of care received by reliant on care provision. A more balanced approach, supporting ethical international hiring alongside investment in local skills, will be essential to sustaining care services in Scotland and across the UK. Carolyn Bowie is a Principal Associate and Business Immigration specialist with leading national law firm, Weightmans
India Today
02-06-2025
- Business
- India Today
Japan's talent crunch could be your career break: Why students should apply in 2025
If you've ever dreamed of studying abroad in a country known for innovation, safety, and world-class education, Japan in 2025 might be your best bet. But what makes Japan stand out today more than ever? Japan will face a shortage of 6.44 million workers by 2030, according to a 2024 report by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI).This massive talent gap is opening doors for international students to build not just a degree, but a global career. 2025 is the perfect time to choose Japan for higher WORKFORCE CRISIS: A WINDOW OF OPPORTUNITYJapan is battling a demographic crisis, its population is rapidly aging, with over 28% aged 65 or older. This leads to a shrinking to METI: Japan will face a shortage of 6.44 million workers by 2030, especially in tech, healthcare, and manufacturing. To address this, Japan is not only relaxing visa rules but actively encouraging international students to study, stay, and work in the SECTORS IN URGENT NEED OF TALENT WHAT MAKES JAPAN AN ATTRACTIVE STUDY DESTINATION? Japan offers high-quality education at a fraction of the cost compared to the US or UK. advertisement And don't forget: Japan offers generous scholarships like MEXT and JASSO, which often cover tuition, living expenses, and WORK OPTIONS: STAY AND THRIVEJapan offers a Designated Activities Visa for job hunting after graduation (up to 1 year).The "Specified Skilled Worker (SSW)" visa allows graduates to work long-term in key are increasingly offering English-speaking roles, especially in 2023, over 75% of international students in Japan secured employment post-graduation (MEXT data).CAREER-LINKED EDUCATIONJapanese universities often have strong ties with industry. This means:Internships at companies like Sony, Rakuten, Toyota, or fairs and placement cells geared toward international tracks in AI, Robotics, Sustainability, and INNOVATIVE, AND CULTURALLY RICH EXPERIENCEJapan ranks among the top countries for:Safety: 12th in the Global Peace Index 3rd in the Global Innovation Index (WIPO, 2024).Cleanliness, punctuality, and public transport not just about studying. It's about experiencing a unique blend of tradition and futuristic living."After my Master's in Data Science from Kyoto University, I got hired by a Tokyo-based fintech firm with a 9M salary package. Japan has given me a career I couldn't have imagined elsewhere."- Ravi Mehta, IndiaDON'T MISS THE 2025 ADVANTAGEadvertisementStudying in Japan in 2025 is not just about academics , it's about positioning yourself at the heart of an economy that desperately needs your talent. With over 6.44 million jobs expected to be vacant by 2030, your degree in Japan could be your gateway to a successful global IN JAPAN FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS 1. MEXT (Monbukagakusho) ScholarshipOffered by: Government of JapanType Undergraduate / Research / Master's / PhDCoverage Full tuition, monthly stipend (~117,000-145,000), airfareEligibility Excellent academic record, non-Japanese citizenDeadline April-May (via Japanese Embassy), or university-recommended route in FallDuration Entire course duration + Japanese language training if needed2. JASSO Scholarship (Gakushu-shoureihi)Offered by: Japan Student Services OrganizationType Short-term and degree studentsCoverage Monthly stipend (48,000 for exchange, 30,000-75,000 for full-time)Eligibility Enrolled in Japanese institutions; financial need + merit-basedDeadline After admission (university applies on your behalf)3. University-Specific ScholarshipsMost top universities offer their own funded scholarships. Examples:University of Tokyo FellowshipCovers full tuition + monthly allowance (~200,000)Kyoto University International ScholarshipPartial to full funding based on academic meritOsaka University Global 30 ScholarshipTuition waiver + monthly support for English-taught programsadvertisement4. Asian Development Bank-Japan Scholarship Program (ADB-JSP)For students from ADB member countriesPrograms Master's in selected development-related fieldsCoverage Full tuition, living expenses, airfare, research supportParticipating Universities Hitotsubashi, Keio, University of Tokyo, December-April (varies by university)5. Rotary Yoneyama Memorial Foundation ScholarshipsOffered by: Rotary JapanCoverage 100,000 - 140,000 per monthLevel Undergraduate / Master's / PhDDeadline August-October (for April intake)Tips for Scholarship ApplicationsApply early: Deadlines are often 6-12 months before the program basic Japanese: Even for English programs, it helps with forms and a strong SOP and academic profile: Especially for MEXT and InMust Watch
The National
26-05-2025
- Business
- The National
Labour urged to confirm if student tax applies to Scotland
Keir Starmer announced plans to impose a six per cent levy on funds generated for universities by international students amidst his crackdown on immigration, with reports estimating the tax hike could cost Scottish universities £85 million per year if implemented. Scottish universities have been 'left in limbo' regarding the levy, with education being a devolved power but immigration still controlled by Westminster, and further education officials have joined the growing backlash against Labour's proposed immigration reforms. READ MORE: SNP file formal complaint over 'race-baiting' Reform UK ad Claire McPherson, Director of Universities Scotland, said: 'We urge the UK Government to think carefully about the impact that a levy on international student fees will have on universities, and the attractiveness of the UK as a study destination. 'We'd hope to see the UK Government defer a decision on the applicability of any levy in Scotland to the Scottish Government, reflecting the fact that university funding is devolved.' The SNP continues calls for a Scottish Graduate Visa, which would allow international graduates from Scottish universities to work and contribute to the economy for two years whilst working towards a Skilled Worker Visa SNP MSP Bill Kidd said: 'Last week we had the unedifying spectacle of Keir Starmer dancing to Nigel Farage's tune on immigration as he announced plans which are completely out of sync with Scotland's needs and values. 'Labour's damaging migration plans are a direct threat to Scotland's NHS, our economy and our universities. 'The UK Labour Government has already slapped our universities with a £30 million bill with their reckless decision to hike employer National Insurance contributions. 'Our universities have now been left in limbo not knowing if they are faced with a further bill of £85 million directly due to Labour's political choices, whilst they also face the prospect of finding it harder to attract international students. 'Keir Starmer must urgently provide clarity on whether this proposed tax on international students will apply in Scotland, whether he will look again at introducing a Scottish Graduate Visa, and whether he will listen to experts from across various sectors and ditch his damaging anti-immigration agenda.'
