On June 18, 2026, the Tokyo Metropolitan Police arrested a married couple, both company executives, on suspicion of facilitating the illegal entry of a Chinese national babysitter through fraudulent visa applications. This case serves as a critical reminder of how misunderstanding or deliberately circumventing Japan’s residence status system can lead to serious legal consequences. In this article, we examine the legal framework surrounding the employment of foreign domestic workers and babysitters in Japan, and highlight key considerations for individuals and companies.
- ■ Case Overview
- ■ Legal Framework for Foreign Domestic Workers in Japan
- ■ There Is No “Babysitter Visa”
- ■ Risks of Fraudulent Applications and Illegal Employment
- ■ Recent Trend Toward Stricter Residence Status Examinations
- ■ Steps for Proper Foreign Employment
- ■ Beware of Fraudulent Agents and Brokers
- ■ Responsibilities of Foreign Residents and Employers
- ■ Conclusion
■ Case Overview
According to media reports, the arrested couple is suspected of submitting false information in a residence status application in 2023 to facilitate the illegal entry of a Chinese national working as a babysitter. The case came to light following a tip-off that “wealthy Chinese nationals were housing their children in a condominium in Minato Ward, and babysitters were engaging in activities outside their permitted scope.”
The couple had been operating a business supporting wealthy Chinese nationals relocating to Japan. They reportedly arranged for babysitters in response to clients’ requests for “high-quality education and childcare” for their children. The suspects have denied the allegations.
■ Legal Framework for Foreign Domestic Workers in Japan
Many people mistakenly believe that anyone in Japan can freely hire or sponsor foreign maids, housekeepers, or babysitters. In reality, Japan does not have an open system allowing ordinary individuals or companies to bring in foreign domestic workers at will.
The acceptance of foreign nationals as “domestic workers” is possible only under very limited circumstances, primarily through the status of residence called “Designated Activities (Domestic Worker).”
Cases Where “Designated Activities (Domestic Worker)” May Be Granted
① Domestic Workers Accompanying Diplomatic Personnel
Foreign diplomats or consular officials may bring domestic workers from their home countries. This exception is granted in consideration of diplomatic privileges. However, even in these cases, strict requirements apply, including detailed scrutiny of employment contracts, salary levels, and working conditions.
② Domestic Workers Employed by Highly Skilled Professionals
Foreign nationals with a “Highly Skilled Professional” status of residence may employ domestic workers, provided they meet certain conditions.
Key requirements include:
・The employer must hold a “Highly Skilled Professional (1 or 2)” status of residence
・The employer’s household income must exceed a specified amount (typically at least 10 million yen per year)
・The employer’s household must have a child under 13 years old, or a family member requiring daily care due to illness
・The domestic worker must be paid an appropriate salary (generally at least 200,000 yen per month)
・The domestic worker must have been previously employed by the household in the employer’s home country, or possess relevant work experience
Even highly skilled professionals cannot freely employ domestic workers; stringent requirements must be satisfied.
■ There Is No “Babysitter Visa”
A critical point in this case is that there is no dedicated “babysitter visa” (status of residence) in Japan.
Parents may understandably wish to provide their children with:
・A babysitter who speaks their native language
・Childcare from someone who understands their cultural background
Such desires are particularly common among wealthy expatriates relocating to Japan who seek to maintain their children’s linguistic and cultural education.
However, the existence of such demand does not justify bringing foreign nationals into Japan under non-existent visa categories. Falsifying applications to create the appearance of eligibility constitutes a clear violation of Japanese immigration law.
■ Risks of Fraudulent Applications and Illegal Employment
As illustrated by this case, submitting false information in residence status applications or knowingly allowing unauthorized work carries severe risks.
Criminal Liability
Under Japan’s Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act (Immigration Act), those who submit false documents to obtain residence status for another person may face:
・Imprisonment for up to 3 years and/or a fine of up to 3 million yen
Additionally, the offense of “promoting illegal employment” applies when:
・Employers knowingly hire foreign nationals to engage in unauthorized work, or facilitate such arrangements
・Penalties: Imprisonment for up to 3 years and/or a fine of up to 3 million yen
Not only the applicant but also the requesting party or business operator may be held criminally liable.
Administrative Disadvantages
・More stringent scrutiny in future residence status renewals for other foreign employees
・Stricter examination standards for future foreign national hires
・Damage to the company’s credibility records
・Risk of license revocation for businesses requiring regulatory approval
Reputational Damage
・Public disclosure of company names in media reports
・Loss of trust among business partners
・Negative impact on recruitment efforts
・Decline in employee morale
■ Recent Trend Toward Stricter Residence Status Examinations
This case must be understood in the context of the recent surge in fraudulent residence status applications. Particularly, widespread abuse of the “Business Manager” visa has prompted immigration authorities to significantly tighten screening procedures.
In May 2026, it was reported that new applications for the Business Manager visa decreased by approximately 96% following the stricter measures. Additionally, allegations have surfaced that “90% of Business Manager visa holders are suspected of fraud,” with numerous cases involving the establishment of shell companies to fraudulently obtain residence status.
In response, immigration authorities have implemented:
・Enhanced verification of document authenticity
・Detailed investigation of actual business operations
・Interviews with relevant parties
・Intensive tracking of suspected fraudulent cases
Furthermore, a substantial increase in residence status application fees is planned for fiscal year 2026 (approximately 70,000 yen for 5-year residence, 200,000 yen for permanent residence), reflecting broader efforts to ensure system integrity.
■ Steps for Proper Foreign Employment
So, what should companies and individuals do to properly employ foreign nationals or sponsor family members?
1. Obtain Accurate Information
First, it is essential to acquire accurate information about the residence status system. The internet contains much outdated or incorrect information. Always refer to the official Immigration Services Agency website or consult with experts well-versed in immigration law for the latest updates.
2. Verify Compatibility Between Job Duties and Residence Status
Confirm that the job duties of the foreign national you intend to hire fall within the permitted scope of activities for their residence status. For example, individuals with a “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” status cannot perform unskilled labor.
3. Execute Proper Employment Contracts
When employing foreign nationals, you must guarantee remuneration and working conditions equal to or better than those for Japanese nationals. Wages below minimum wage or working conditions violating labor standards laws are not permissible.
4. Manage Activities Outside Permitted Scope
Ensure that foreign employees do not engage in work beyond their authorized activities. For example, international students employed part-time must adhere to limits of 28 hours per week (or 8 hours per day during long holidays).
5. Consult with Professionals
Residence status applications are highly complex, and laws are frequently revised. Rather than relying on self-judgment, it is advisable to consult with immigration law specialists such as administrative scriveners (gyoseishoshi).
Professional support is particularly essential when:
・Hiring foreign nationals for the first time
・Employing individuals with complex career backgrounds
・Dealing with previous application denials
・A change of residence status is necessary
■ Beware of Fraudulent Agents and Brokers
As this case demonstrates, some agents and brokers claim to support foreign nationals’ relocation or employment in Japan while actually employing illegal methods.
Be cautious of the following claims:
・”We guarantee visa approval”
・”This visa allows you to do anything”
・”We have special channels to expedite screening”
・”Don’t worry about the documents”
・”We can adjust the paperwork a bit to get approval”
In legitimate procedures, there are no “guarantees,” nor are there “special channels.” Engaging with such agents may result in complicity in fraudulent applications, potentially subjecting clients themselves to criminal prosecution.
■ Responsibilities of Foreign Residents and Employers
The residence status system is designed to protect foreign nationals engaged in legitimate activities in Japan and to prevent fraud. Understanding and complying with this system serves the interests of foreign nationals, employing companies, and Japanese society as a whole.
For Foreign Residents
・Accurately understand the scope of activities permitted under your residence status
・Beware of offers claiming “easy visa acquisition”
・Strictly manage your residence period and apply for renewals well in advance
・Consult professionals if you have questions
For Employing Companies
・Properly understand laws related to foreign employment
・Thoroughly verify work eligibility (check residence cards, submit notifications to Hello Work)
・Guarantee appropriate working conditions
・Regularly confirm the status of employees’ residence qualifications
・Always consult professionals when in doubt
■ Conclusion
The babysitter illegal entry case demonstrates how a lack of understanding of the residence status system, or attempts to resolve problems through illegal means, can lead to devastating consequences.
Regardless of motivations such as “for the sake of the children” or “for business purposes,” methods that violate the law can never be justified. Moreover, those who resort to such methods ultimately cause the greatest harm to the foreign nationals involved, their families, and the requesting parties themselves.
To properly employ foreign nationals in Japan or sponsor family members, accurate knowledge and appropriate procedures are indispensable. Precisely because the system is complex and difficult to navigate, it is crucial to proceed carefully and systematically with the support of specialists.
If you have questions or concerns about residence status matters, please consult with professionals such as administrative scriveners who specialize in immigration law. By following proper procedures, foreign nationals can live in Japan with peace of mind, and companies can safely leverage foreign talent.
Reference Article:
https://news.yahoo.co.jp/articles/a9c05af7e859bc400cfd26ebd988ef17a374f222
