TOKYO: Responding to appeals from both business and academic sectors, the Japanese government has announced a significant relaxation of visa regulations, expanding opportunities for foreign students to remain in Japan and secure employment.
The Immigration Services Agency of Japan revealed on Thursday that students completing studies at state-designated technical schools would now have the flexibility to work in fields not necessarily directly related to their majors.
This major policy shift is expected to boost the annual count of foreign students choosing to stay and work in Japan by approximately 3,000 individuals, according to the agency.
Previously, a substantial number of foreign students, despite acquiring technical skills and proficiency in the Japanese language during their tenure at technical schools, faced challenges in securing employment aligned with their acquired skills or knowledge, often leading to their return to their home countries.
To address this issue, state-designated technical schools will implement specialized programs, including practical training opportunities at various companies, as confirmed by the agency.
Furthermore, the government has expanded the eligibility criteria for foreign students to remain in Japan for employment under the “designated activities” visa, a residential status allowing employment across a broader spectrum.
Previously reserved for graduates of universities or graduate schools, this visa category now includes students demonstrating advanced Japanese language proficiency and educational accomplishments equivalent to a bachelor’s degree, including those completing a four-year program at designated technical schools.
According to a survey conducted by the Japan Student Services Organization in fiscal 2021, approximately 75 percent of the 2,000 foreign students enrolled in technical schools expressed their desire to pursue employment opportunities within Japan.
These regulatory amendments follow recommendations by a government panel in April of the preceding year, advocating for simplified pathways for foreign students to secure employment in Japan.
“We hope that students possessing specialized skills and a profound understanding of Japan will contribute to the workforce in the country,” remarked an official from the agency, underscoring the government’s aspirations behind the policy adjustments.
