- Rapid Growth of Foreign Residents
As of December 2024, Japan had approximately 3,768,977 foreign residents, a 10.5% increase over the previous year.
This is the highest number ever recorded for the third consecutive year.
Major nationalities include China, Vietnam, South Korea, the Philippines, and Nepal.
- Breakdown by Status of Residence
| Category | Residents | YoY Growth | Features |
|———-|———–|————|———-|
| Permanent Resident | approx. 918,000 | +3.2% | Unrestricted employment and stable long-term stay |
| Technical Intern | approx. 456,000 | +12.7% | Transitional phase before shift to new “Training Employment” |
| Specified Skilled Worker | approx. 250,000 | +20%+ | Demand increasing in manufacturing, caregiving, construction |
| Student | approx. 402,000 | +18% | Recovery in post-COVID enrollment |
| Spouse/Long-Term Resident | approx. 306,000 | +9.1% | Flexible employment without restriction |
- Major Policy and Legal Developments
3‑1. “Training Employment” Program Launching Spring 2027
This new system will replace the Technical Intern Program. It allows conditional job transfers, mandatory Japanese language training (100+ hours), and individual development plans.
3‑2. Expansion of Specified Skilled Worker System
Manufacturing sector quotas increased by 3.5 times compared to 2023. More registered support organizations are now certified to improve oversight and assistance.
3‑3. Stricter Controls on Unpaid Medical Fees
Foreign nationals with unpaid medical bills in Japan may face denial of entry or renewal. This aims to ensure fairness and social responsibility.
3‑4. Special Measures for Myanmar Nationals
Validity of Certificate of Eligibility extended from 3 to 6 months due to administrative delays.
- What This Means for You
For Companies:
– You must strengthen internal systems to receive foreign workers, including language and training support.
For Foreign Residents:
– Staying compliant with taxes and public fees is essential to protect your visa status.
– Consider upgrading to Permanent or Long-Term Resident if eligible.
For Future Applicants:
– Assess your eligibility carefully (residency period, income, taxes, employment history, etc.).
– Identify and improve any weak points early.
- Our Support Services
We offer a **free 1-hour initial consultation** for the following residence statuses:
– Permanent Residency
– Specified Skilled Worker (Type 1 & 2)
– Business Management Visa
– Engineer/Humanities/International Services
– Dependent & Spouse Visas
We help you analyze your situation and build a personalized application strategy. Now is the ideal time to prepare.
- Final Note
As of mid-2025, Japan continues expanding foreign workforce integration alongside immigration reform.
Thorough preparation, compliance, and understanding of the rules will help you thrive in Japan.
Please feel free to contact us for tailored visa assistance.
参照：
出入国在留管理庁ホームページ
https://www.moj.go.jp/isa/publications/press/13_00054.html
KYODO NEWS
https://english.kyodonews.net/articles/-/53125?phrase=state+of+emergency&words=
