The controversial Japan foreign trainee program is getting a revamp
The Japanese government has approved a revamped policy for its contentious trainee program for foreigners. This updated program emphasises enhanced rights protection, increased job flexibility, and stricter oversight.
The decision, made during a ministerial meeting, aligns with recommendations from a government panel last year and incorporates discussions within the ruling Liberal Democratic Party. The aim is to address criticisms of the current Technical Intern Training Program, which has been accused of exploiting cheap labor and limiting job mobility.
Prime Minister Fumio Kishida expressed a desire to attract foreign talent to Japan and instructed ministers to enhance conditions for foreign workers.
While the panel initially suggested allowing trainees to change jobs after one year, concerns were raised about potential shifts from rural to urban areas. As a compromise, the government decided to impose a maximum two-year limit on job transfers, depending on the industry.
Additionally, trainees will need to demonstrate basic proficiency in Japanese by passing either the N5 or N4 level of the Japanese-Language Proficiency Test. The supervising organisations, responsible for overseeing firms that employ foreign trainees, will undergo changes under the new system, including appointing external auditors.
Furthermore, the government is contemplating measures to revoke permanent residency status from foreigners who fail to meet tax or social insurance obligations.
Under the revised system, trainees will have the option to transition to the specified skilled worker program introduced in 2019, which offers longer stays of up to five years and the potential for permanent residency.
Source: Kyodo News
