Japan Mulls Residency Extension for Pregnant Foreign Workers

• Japan is considering extending the residency limit for pregnant foreign workers to address labor shortages.
• The government plans to establish rules by this summer to exempt these workers from the five-year residency limit.
• The Specified Skilled Worker visa program allows holders to work in 16 industries facing severe labor shortages.
• As of September 2024, there were approximately 260,000 skilled workers in Japan on the No. 1 visas and 408 on the No. 2 visas.

In a progressive move, the Japanese government is contemplating an extension to the five-year residency limit for skilled foreign workers who become pregnant, according to a source privy to the matter. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to ensure that foreign workers can continue their employment while respecting their right to bear and raise children. This comes at a time when Japan is grappling with a labor shortage, and the government is keen on retaining its skilled foreign workforce.

The government’s plan is to establish rules by this summer to exempt such workers from the five-year residency limit. This decision will be made after discussions with an expert panel, the source revealed on Sunday. This move is seen as a significant step towards addressing the concerns of foreign workers in Japan, particularly those who are pregnant or planning to start a family.

In the past, there have been instances across Japan where foreigners holding Specified Skilled Worker visas had their employment terminated after becoming pregnant. This proposed exemption is similar to one already in place for foreigners working under Japan’s technical trainee program.

Addressing Labor Shortages and Protecting Workers’ Rights

The Specified Skilled Worker visa program allows holders to work in 16 industries facing severe labor shortages. These industries include construction, nursing care, and agriculture, with many visa holders transitioning from the technical trainee program.

The technical trainee program, however, has faced criticism for being little more than a scheme for Japan to import cheap labor. In response to this criticism, the government plans to abolish the program in 2027 and replace it with a new system focused on developing skills and protecting workers’ rights.

The government anticipates that the number of skilled foreign workers will increase in the future. It plans to operate the scheme in an integrated manner with the new system. The Specified Skilled Worker No. 1 visa permits up to five years of residency, while the No. 2 visa allows for unlimited renewals. The latter opens the path to permanent residency and permits workers to bring their spouses and children to Japan.

The Role of Foreign Workers in Japan’s Labor Market

As of the end of September 2024, there were approximately 260,000 skilled workers in Japan on the No. 1 visas and 408 on the No. 2 visas. This data underscores the importance of foreign workers in Japan’s labor market and the need for policies that support their rights and welfare.

Historically, Japan has been known for its strict immigration policies. However, in recent years, the country has been gradually opening its doors to foreign workers to address labor shortages in various industries. This proposed extension of the residency limit for pregnant skilled foreign workers is another step in this direction, reflecting a shift in Japan’s approach to immigration and labor policies.

In conclusion, the Japanese government’s consideration to extend the residency limit for pregnant skilled foreign workers is a significant move. It not only addresses the immediate concern of retaining skilled foreign workers but also respects their right to start and raise a family. This initiative, coupled with the planned overhaul of the technical trainee program, signals a positive change in Japan’s approach to foreign workers and their rights.