The Japanese government has announced plans to replace its existing foreign trainee program with a new scheme aimed at teaching skills and safeguarding workers’ rights while addressing labor shortages. Under the proposed program, foreign workers on a three-year trainee visa could transition to a skilled worker category, potentially leading to permanent residency. This move comes as Japan grapples with an aging and shrinking population, relying heavily on foreign workers across various industries.
The current Technical Intern Training Program, which has faced criticism for its utilization of low-cost labor and instances of labor rights violations, is slated for replacement in light of extensive reports highlighting widespread abuses. The new scheme aims to restrict job options for foreign trainees, maintaining a cautious approach to immigration policy.
Prime Minister Fumio Kishida told his ministers in a meeting that based on the plans, the government will work to “make our country attractive to foreign personnel.” The government is preparing to present legislation aimed at implementing the new scheme during the current parliamentary session.
The government’s efforts to revamp the program seek to address long standing criticisms and improve conditions for foreign workers, ultimately aiming to make Japan a more attractive destination for international talent.
