- ■ Introduction
- ■ Hokkaido’s Population Dynamics: What’s Happening?
- ■ Challenges Facing Companies: Recruiting and Retaining Foreign Talent
- ■ What Foreign Residents and Their Families Should Know
- ■ Practical Matters of Visa and Status of Residence Applications: What to Do
- ■ Future Outlook: Toward a Society of Coexistence with Foreign Residents
- ■ Conclusion
■ Introduction
On July 29, 2026, the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications released its population dynamics survey based on the Basic Resident Register, revealing significant changes in Japan’s demographic structure.
While Hokkaido’s total population fell below 5 million for the first time, the foreign resident population increased by 14.89% year-over-year, marking the highest growth rate nationwide.
This statistic represents more than just a numerical shift. It demonstrates that foreign talent is playing an increasingly vital role amid Japan’s declining and aging population.
This article examines what these demographic changes mean for companies and foreign residents in Japan, and what measures are required regarding visas and status of residence from a professional perspective.
■ Hokkaido’s Population Dynamics: What’s Happening?
◇ Total Population Falls Below 5 Million While Foreign Residents Surge
According to the Ministry’s survey, Hokkaido’s total population as of January 1, 2026, stood at 4,996,492, a decrease of 48,333 (0.96%) from the previous year.
This marks the first time the total population has fallen below 5 million since the survey began.
Meanwhile, the foreign resident population reached 75,392, an increase of 9,771 (14.89%) from the previous year, representing the highest growth rate in the nation.
By municipality, Sapporo City recorded 23,881 foreign residents (up 3,216 from the previous year), and Kutchan Town in the Shiribeshi area had 4,279 (up 652), showing notable increases in urban areas and resort destinations.
Kutchan Town’s increase was the highest among all towns and villages nationwide.
◇ Japanese Population Continues Record Decline for 14 Consecutive Years
Hokkaido’s Japanese population stood at 4,921,100, a decrease of 58,104 (1.17%) from the previous year.
The decrease has been the largest nationwide for 14 consecutive years, with Sapporo City (down 4,306), Asahikawa City (down 4,268), and Hakodate City (down 4,032) leading the decline.
The only municipality showing growth was Nanporo Town in the Sorachi area, which increased by 225 residents.
◇ National Trend: Foreign Residents Increase in All Prefectures
Nationally, while the total population decreased by 563,048 to 123,767,642, the foreign resident population increased by 353,696 (9.62%) to 4,031,159, reaching a record high since the survey began.
Foreign residents increased in all 47 prefectures, indicating that foreign workforce acceptance is advancing throughout Japan.
■ Challenges Facing Companies: Recruiting and Retaining Foreign Talent
◇ Labor Shortages and the Importance of Foreign Workers
Japan’s working-age population (15-64 years old) has reached a record low of 70,748,417, making talent acquisition increasingly difficult for companies.
Particularly in regions like Hokkaido where population decline is significant, utilizing foreign talent has become a critical management issue directly tied to corporate survival and growth.
◇ Recruitment Alone Is Insufficient: Importance of Status of Residence Management
What many companies overlook when hiring foreign workers is “proper management of status of residence.”
There are numerous types of status of residence, each with defined permissible work activities and residence periods.
【Key Points for Companies】
- Alignment Between Status of Residence and Job Duties
Verification is required to ensure that job duties at the time of hiring fall within the scope permitted by the status of residence. For example, “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” status does not permit simple labor. - Residence Period Management
Missing residence period renewals not only prevents employees from working but also risks the company being charged with abetting illegal employment. - Timing of Status of Residence Changes
When reassigning employees or changing job duties, a change in status of residence may be necessary. - Family Members’ Status of Residence
If an employee’s family members reside in Japan under “Dependent” status, they cannot be employed beyond the scope of permission for activities outside their status (within 28 hours per week).
◇ Benefits of Proper Status of Residence Management
・Improved Retention of Talented Personnel
Providing a secure work environment reduces turnover rates.
・Strengthened Corporate Compliance
Legal compliance prevents administrative sanctions and loss of social credibility.
・Enhanced Recruitment Branding
Building a reputation as a foreigner-friendly employer attracts talented candidates.
■ What Foreign Residents and Their Families Should Know
◇ Basics of Visas and Status of Residence
Foreign nationals residing in Japan must hold a status of residence appropriate to their purpose.
Major categories of status of residence include:
・Work-related: Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services, Skilled Labor, Specified Skilled Worker, Highly Skilled Professional, etc.
・Status-based: Permanent Resident, Spouse of Japanese National, Long-Term Resident, etc.
・Others: Student, Dependent, Designated Activities, etc.
Employment eligibility, residence period, and renewal conditions differ depending on the status of residence.
◇ Common Problems and Prevention Methods
- Forgetting to Renew Residence Period
Renewal applications can be filed from 3 months before the expiration date. Plan ahead with adequate time. - Neglecting Procedures When Changing Jobs
After changing jobs, notification to immigration authorities is required (within 14 days). A change in status of residence may also be necessary. - Engaging in Unauthorized Activities
Working beyond permitted scope risks cancellation of status of residence or denial of renewal. - Document Deficiencies
Incomplete application documents can prolong examination or result in denial.
◇ Permanent Residence and Naturalization
For those planning to live in Japan long-term, permanent residence permission or naturalization are options to consider.
・Permanent Residence: Allows indefinite stay in Japan while retaining foreign nationality. Generally requires at least 10 years of residence.
・Naturalization: Acquisition of Japanese nationality. While foreign nationality is forfeited, rights equivalent to Japanese citizens are obtained, including voting rights and eligibility for civil service employment.
Which option is appropriate depends on individual circumstances and future plans.
■ Practical Matters of Visa and Status of Residence Applications: What to Do
◇ Application Process
- Preparation of Required Documents
Required documents vary depending on the type of status of residence and application content. - Completion of Application Forms
Accurate and detailed entries are required. - Application to Immigration Bureau
Applications are filed by the individual or a representative (such as an administrative scrivener). - Examination
Examination typically takes 1-3 months, though this varies by case. - Receipt of Results and Residence Card
◇ Benefits of Engaging Specialists
Visa and status of residence applications are complex, and legal revisions occur frequently.
Engaging specialists (administrative scriveners) offers the following benefits:
・Accurate Document Preparation: Prevents denial or delays due to deficiencies.
・Time Savings: Complex procedures are handled on your behalf.
・Improved Approval Rates: Appropriate advice increases the likelihood of approval.
・Problem Resolution: Support for reapplication or appeals in case of denial.
■ Future Outlook: Toward a Society of Coexistence with Foreign Residents
◇ Globalization Advancing Even in Regional Areas
As the Hokkaido case demonstrates, the increase in foreign residents is occurring not only in urban areas but also in regional and resort areas.
This reflects diversification in work locations and lifestyles and is expected to continue.
◇ Responses Required from Companies
・Creating Multicultural Workplaces
・Establishing Status of Residence Management Systems
・Training and Support for Foreign Employees
◇ Society-Wide Initiatives
To create a society where foreign residents can live with peace of mind, coordinated efforts among government, companies, and local communities are necessary.
Development of comprehensive support systems is required, including language support, life consultation, and educational support for children.
■ Conclusion
Hokkaido recording the highest foreign resident growth rate in Japan symbolizes structural changes in Japanese society.
For companies, utilizing foreign talent is key to strengthening competitiveness, and for foreign residents in Japan, proper status of residence management is the foundation for a secure life.
Accurate knowledge and appropriate procedures regarding visas and status of residence are essential for both companies and foreign residents.
If you have concerns or questions, we recommend consulting with specialists early.
We provide full support to companies and foreign residents with extensive experience and specialized knowledge in visa applications and status of residence.
Please feel free to contact us.
Source article URL: https://news.yahoo.co.jp/articles/c5f46c6fc21331a387c6111f1be45c5cecce5b21
