In the latest of the series of reforms implemented by the government of Japan, the proof of Japanese language proficiency will officially become a requirement for individuals applying for the visa status of engineer, and specialist in the fields of humanities or international services, according to a Kyodo News report.
To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the news report of Kyodo News Some parts in boldface…
The Japanese government has decided to require proof of Japanese language proficiency for individuals seeking the visa status of engineer, specialist in humanities or international services for work requiring Japanese, a source close to the matter said Friday.
The government plans to revise the policy as early as mid-April and tighten screening, prompted by a growing number of cases in which individuals enter the country under a visa status for professions requiring specialized knowledge but work in unskilled jobs not permitted under it.
According to the source, the revised policy will require applicants to submit documentation proving Japanese proficiency at the B2 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, equivalent to N2 of the Japanese-Language Proficiency Test.
Currently, the policy requires applicants to meet conditions such as a college-level education or its equivalent, as well as relevant work experience, but not Japanese proficiency.
The revision will apply to new applicants for the residence status who are entering Japan and intend to work in jobs requiring Japanese. International students seeking to transition to the status will be exempt.
It also stipulates that companies barred for five years from accepting workers under the controversial technical intern training or specified skilled worker programs due to issues such as assault or unpaid wages will also be prohibited from accepting workers under the visa status until the suspension period expires.
According to the Immigration Services Agency, the number of foreign residents in Japan stood at around 4.13 million as of the end of 2025.
Those staying under the visa status for engineer, specialist in humanities or international services totaled around 475,000, making them the second-largest group of foreign residents after permanent residents, who numbered about 947,000.
Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? Do you think the new policy will create positive results with regards to those who applied for the engineer and specialist visa? Do you think Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae has done enough on reforming immigration and the visa application processes?
You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.
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