Japan's Foreigner Policy at a Turning Point: The Future Outlined by "Training and Employment" and "Optimization of Permanent Residency"

Japan's foreign worker acceptance policy is reaching a historical turning point. In addition to the fundamental revision of the conventional "Technical Intern Training Program" and the creation of a new "Training and Employment" system with the clear purpose of securing and cultivating human resources, legal revisions are underway to lay the foundation for an inclusive society, such as reviewing the operation of the permanent residency permit system.

1. The major transition from "Technical Intern Training" to "Specified Skilled Employment" / 1. Major shift from "Technical Intern Training" to "Employment Training"

The previous Technical Intern Training Program has been criticized for the divergence between its nominal purpose of "international contribution through technology transfer" and the reality on the ground of "filling labor shortages." The newly established "Training and Employment" program explicitly states "the development and securing of human resources from overseas" as its purpose from the very beginning.

• Relaxation of restrictions on job transfers (changing jobs): Regarding the transfer to a different company for personal reasons, which was previously prohibited in principle, it will now be permitted upon meeting certain Japanese language proficiency and length-of-service requirements at the same workplace (such as 1 to 2 years), thereby aiming to protect human rights and optimize the working environment.
• Clear career path to "Specified Skilled Worker": A streamlined route has been established to smoothly transition to the longer-term "Specified Skilled Worker" status (with a path for bringing family members) by gaining three years of practical experience and skills under the Training and Employment system and passing an examination.

2. Optimization of the Permanent Residence Permit System and Clarification of Rules

While looking toward the long-term retention of foreign human resources, regulations requiring compliance with social norms and public obligations have also been strengthened.

• Provisions for revocation and review of permanent residence status: Rules have been codified that allow for the revocation of permanent residence permits or changes in resident status in cases where taxes or social insurance premiums are intentionally defaulted, or where obligations as a mid- to long-term resident are violated.
• The Balance of Symbiosis: The goal is to prevent friction with Japanese residents and aim for sustainable coexistence, not simply by expanding acceptance, but by demanding compliance with rules as members of the local community.

3. For Japan to become a "chosen country"

Declining birthrates and aging populations are progressing in various Asian countries as well, and the global competition to acquire human talent is intensifying. Institutional liberalization of job changes and clear career paths are essential steps, but simply putting systems in place is not enough. More than ever, the development of a multifaceted reception environment is required, including corporate training systems, fair evaluation, and livelihood support within the local community.