TOKYO — Japan plans to introduce a five-year period of stay for foreign workers holding Type 2 specified skilled worker status from early January next year, extending the current maximum period of three years.
The Immigration Services Agency released a draft ministerial ordinance on August 4 and is seeking public comments on the proposed change, as reported by The Japan Times.
Currently, Type 2 specified skilled workers are granted periods of stay ranging from six months to three years, depending on factors including employment stability, continuity and other circumstances.
Longer periods of stay are subject to stricter screening criteria, including employment records and tax payment history.
Under the proposed system, the new five-year period would align Type 2 specified skilled worker status with other residence statuses for foreign nationals, including nursing care workers, which already allow stays of up to five years.
The government said detailed requirements for the new five-year category will be finalized at a later date.
The change could also have implications for foreign workers seeking permanent residency in Japan, as current guidelines require applicants to hold the longest available period of stay under their existing residence status.