On August 18, 2026, the Japanese government convened the first meeting of an expert working group (WG) to establish a learning program for foreign residents covering Japanese language and Japanese systems and rules. This development may significantly impact visa applications and immigration procedures for foreign residents in Japan and their families, as well as companies employing foreign workers. This article provides a detailed analysis of the new system’s framework, its potential impact on status of residence examinations, and recommended responses for businesses.
- ■Background and Objectives of the New System
- ■Working Group Composition and Discussion Topics
- ■Impact on Status of Residence Examinations – The Most Critical Point
- ■Practical Advice for Foreign Residents
- ■What Employing Companies Should Know
- ■Strengthening Cooperation with Local Governments
- ■Future Schedule and Points of Interest
- ■Importance of Professional Support
- ■Conclusion
■Background and Objectives of the New System
The number of foreign residents in Japan has been increasing year by year, reaching a record high at the end of 2025. As foreigners from diverse nationalities and cultural backgrounds live and work in Japan, challenges arising from language barriers and cultural differences have become increasingly apparent.
The creation of this program aims to address these challenges and establish an environment where foreign residents can adapt more smoothly to Japanese society and thrive over the medium to long term. As stated by the Prime Minister’s aide, “if people understand Japanese, their lives proceed smoothly, and they can work in Japan for the medium to long term.” This recognition that language proficiency directly correlates with quality of life and employment stability forms the foundation of this system.
■Working Group Composition and Discussion Topics
The expert WG established consists of six members, with the Chairman Emeritus of the Japan Research Institute appointed as chair. The Vice Minister of the Cabinet Office expressed strong commitment, stating a desire to “create an effective program,” indicating that the goal is not merely a formalistic system but a practical mechanism that genuinely supports the lives and employment of foreigners.
The following issues were discussed at the first meeting:
- Learning methods for the program
- Establishment of evaluation criteria
- How to reflect attendance in residence examinations
- Role of accepting companies
- Cooperation with local governments
These discussion points suggest that this system will become a comprehensive mechanism integrated into the overall residence management system, extending beyond mere language education.
■Impact on Status of Residence Examinations – The Most Critical Point
The most noteworthy aspect of this new system is the possibility that program attendance may be reflected in residence examinations. This means that a new element may be added to the traditional examination criteria for visa applications and status of residence renewals.
Traditional status of residence examinations have primarily assessed the following elements:
- Eligibility for status of residence (whether the applicant meets the requirements for the applied status)
- Conformity to landing permission standards (academic background, work experience, salary level, etc.)
- Good conduct
- Financial stability
In addition to these, a new evaluation axis of “effort to adapt to Japanese language and society” may be added in the future.
Although the specific method of reflection is still under consideration, possible scenarios include:
- Program completion becomes a requirement for status of residence application/renewal
- Program attendance is considered in comprehensive examination
- Preferential treatment in examinations for program graduates
- Evaluation factor in extending residence periods
Regardless, foreign residents will likely not be able to ignore this program as the trial begins in fiscal year 2028.
■Practical Advice for Foreign Residents
For those currently residing in Japan or planning to reside in Japan, how should you prepare for this new system?
【Preparations You Can Make Now】
- Continue or Begin Japanese Language Learning
Although the trial begins in fiscal year 2028, improving your Japanese proficiency now will facilitate adaptation to the program and benefit your daily life and employment. - Understanding Japanese Systems and Rules
It is important to understand the basic mechanisms of Japanese society, including taxes, social insurance, labor regulations, and lifestyle rules. - Strategic Management of Status of Residence
Understand when your status of residence is up for renewal and anticipate when you might be affected if the new system is introduced. - Consultation with Specialists
Immigration systems are complex, and responses vary depending on individual circumstances. We recommend consulting with specialists to develop a strategy suited to your situation.
■What Employing Companies Should Know
For business managers and HR personnel who employ foreign workers, this new system requires a review of human resource management strategies.
【Expansion of Corporate Roles】
The WG has identified “the role of accepting companies” as one of the discussion points. This suggests that corporate responsibility for supporting foreign employees’ Japanese language learning and social adaptation may become more clearly defined in the future.
Specifically, companies may be required to:
- Provide learning opportunities during work hours
- Subsidize learning costs
- Manage and report attendance
- Serve as liaison with local governments
【Impact on HR Strategy】
- Considerations When Hiring
When newly recruiting foreign workers, it may become necessary to place greater emphasis on Japanese language proficiency and willingness to learn than before. - Support for Current Employees
Considering the possibility that program attendance may become necessary when currently employed foreign workers renew their status of residence, support systems should be established. - Cost and Resource Planning
Learning support requires time and cost. It will be necessary to incorporate support for Japanese language and social adaptation learning for foreign employees into HR budgets and training plans. - Long-term Benefits
On the other hand, improved Japanese language proficiency and social adaptation of foreign employees lead to smoother communication, improved work efficiency, and better retention rates. Short-term costs should be viewed as long-term investments.
■Strengthening Cooperation with Local Governments
The WG also identified cooperation with local governments as a discussion point. This indicates that rather than the national government uniformly operating the system, the aim is flexible operation according to regional circumstances.
Japanese language classes, life orientation programs, and multicultural coexistence programs provided by local governments may potentially coordinate with this new system. For companies, it will be important to understand and utilize foreign resident support services provided by local governments in their area.
■Future Schedule and Points of Interest
The following process is anticipated toward the trial start in fiscal year 2028:
2024-2025: WG deliberations, specification of program content
2025-2026: Implementation and evaluation of pilot programs
2026-2027: System design and legal framework for full implementation
Fiscal Year 2028: Trial launch
Key points to watch:
- Specific program content (levels, hours, costs)
- Evaluation criteria and completion requirements
- Details of how it will be reflected in residence examinations
- Clarification of corporate obligations and roles
- How it will apply to existing residents
As these details become clearer, practical response measures will also become more concrete.
■Importance of Professional Support
Immigration systems are complex and frequently change. The introduction of new systems like this one can significantly impact individual foreign residents and employing companies.
By receiving professional support, you can obtain:
- Appropriate advice based on the latest system information
- Optimal strategies tailored to individual situations
- Reliable visa application and renewal procedures
- Prevention of problems before they occur
Especially during the introduction period of a new system, when interpretation and operation methods are fluid, judgment based on specialized knowledge and experience is essential.
■Conclusion
The first meeting of the expert WG held on August 18, 2024, may represent an important turning point in Japan’s foreign resident policy. Toward the trial start in fiscal year 2028, we recommend that foreign residents and companies employing foreign workers proceed with preparations while being mindful of the following points:
【For Foreign Residents】
- Continue or begin Japanese language learning
- Deepen understanding of Japanese systems and rules
- Strategic management of status of residence
- Gather the latest information
- Consult with specialists
【For Companies】
- Consider support systems for foreign employees’ learning
- Reflect in HR strategy and budget
- Strengthen cooperation with local governments
- Gather the latest information
- Coordinate with specialists
While this new system may represent an increased burden for foreign residents, it is also an opportunity to make life and employment in Japan more stable and fulfilling. For companies, it can serve as an opportunity to promote the retention and success of foreign workers.
It is important to proceed with appropriate preparation and responses while monitoring future developments. If you have any questions or concerns regarding visa applications or status of residence, please feel free to contact a specialist.
Source: https://news.yahoo.co.jp/articles/6ff2c5dc8466464320c890f3891d9604a2f4df0e
