On April 10, 2026, significant developments were reported in Nagano Prefecture. The “Nagano Japan-Vietnam Economic and Human Resource Exchange Association” was established, with approximately 40 organizations participating, including local companies, government bodies, and economic associations, to promote economic and human resource exchange with Vietnam.

At the inaugural ceremony, Chairman Masataka Nishizawa, a prefectural assembly member, stated:
“Rather than merely securing cheap labor, we will welcome foreign workers who comply with Japanese laws as good neighbors, and promote the development of an orderly environment where we work, live, and enjoy life together.”

This statement captures the essence of how Japanese society should engage with foreign workers in the future. In this article, we examine the significance of this movement from the perspective of an immigration specialist (gyoseishoshi)—an expert in visa applications and residence status—and explain key points that companies, communities, and foreign nationals themselves should be aware of.

■ The Current State of Foreign Workers in Nagano Prefecture

First, let’s examine the current situation with data.

・Number of foreign workers in Nagano Prefecture: Approximately 30,700 (as of October 2025)
・Top nationality: Vietnam (approximately 7,000 people)

Not only in Nagano Prefecture but nationwide, the number of foreign workers has been increasing. According to statistics from the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, the number of foreign workers across Japan has exceeded 2 million, continuing to reach record levels.

The increase in Vietnamese workers is particularly notable, with many working as technical intern trainees or specified skilled workers in a wide range of industries, including manufacturing, construction, agriculture, and nursing care.

■ Why Is “Coexistence” a Key Concept Now?

In the past, Japan tended to accept foreign workers as a “temporary workforce.” However, the situation has changed dramatically.

1. Severe Labor Shortages

With Japan’s declining birthrate and aging population, labor shortages are serious across all industries. Particularly in rural areas, many businesses cannot continue operating without foreign workers.

2. International Competition for Talent

Countries such as South Korea, Taiwan, and Singapore are also actively accepting foreign workers. Today, foreign workers are not simply “coming to Japan”—they are “actively choosing Japan” from among their options.

3. The Importance of Human Rights Awareness and Legal Compliance

Issues surrounding the Technical Intern Training Program (such as low wages, long working hours, and passport confiscation) have faced international criticism. Ensuring fair working conditions and respecting human rights are now essential.

4. Sustainability of Local Communities

When foreign workers and their families settle in a region, they contribute to the local economy through consumption and tax payments. Welcoming them as “good neighbors” also contributes to the future of the community.

■ Basic Rules Companies Must Follow When Employing Foreign Workers

For companies employing foreign nationals, the most important aspect is ensuring legal compliance.

Verification of Residence Status Is Essential

For foreign nationals to work in Japan, they must hold a valid residence status that permits employment. Common types include:

・Engineer / Specialist in Humanities / International Services (commonly referred to as work visas)
・Specified Skilled Worker (Type 1 and Type 2)
・Technical Intern Training
・Permanent Resident, Spouse of Japanese National, etc. (no work restrictions)
・Student (up to 28 hours per week with permission for activities outside the designated status)

Employers must always verify the residence card. Employers who allow illegal work can be prosecuted (crime of facilitating illegal employment).

Matching Residence Status with Job Duties

For example, the “Engineer / Specialist in Humanities / International Services” visa cannot be used for simple manual labor. It is essential to confirm in advance whether the job duties fall within the scope of the residence status.

Support for Residence Status Renewal

Residence statuses have expiration dates. If renewal is forgotten, the individual becomes an illegal resident, and the company also faces significant risks. It is important to keep track of renewal dates and consult specialists such as gyoseishoshi when necessary.

Ensuring Fair Working Conditions

The Labor Standards Act applies to foreign workers as well. Minimum wage, overtime pay, paid leave, and other conditions must be equal to those for Japanese workers. Discriminatory treatment is illegal.

■ Becoming a Company or Region “Chosen” by Foreign Workers

Legal compliance is a prerequisite, but it alone is not sufficient. To be chosen by foreign workers, the following initiatives are required:

1. Enhanced Living Support Systems

・Securing housing (addressing guarantor issues, support with initial costs)
・Providing opportunities to learn Japanese
・Guidance on medical institutions, explanation of health insurance
・Support with opening bank accounts and signing mobile phone contracts

2. Establishing a Communication-Friendly Environment

・Consultation services in native languages
・Creating multilingual manuals
・Cross-cultural understanding training for Japanese employees

3. Clear Career Path Development

If there is an environment where workers can grow long-term rather than simply “working for a few years and returning home,” motivation and retention rates will increase.

4. Building Connections with the Community

Participation in local events, collaboration with neighborhood associations, and support for children’s education are important for helping workers integrate into local society.

■ What Foreign Residents Should Know: Basics of Managing Residence Status

For foreign residents, managing residence status is the foundation of daily life.

Check Your Residence Period

You should always check the expiration date listed on your residence card. Renewal applications can be submitted starting three months before expiration. Overstaying becomes illegal residence and may result in deportation.

Prohibition of Activities Outside Designated Status

You cannot engage in work outside the permitted activities. For example, working more than 28 hours per week on a “Student” visa is illegal.

Precautions When Changing Jobs

If you are working on a visa such as “Engineer / Specialist in Humanities / International Services,” you may need to obtain a “Certificate of Authorized Employment” or, in some cases, change your residence status when changing jobs.

Consult Specialists When in Doubt

If you have concerns about your visa, consult the Immigration Bureau or a gyoseishoshi. Acting based on your own judgment may lead to irreversible consequences.

■ The Role of Gyoseishoshi: Legal Support and Bridging

We, as gyoseishoshi (administrative scriveners), are specialists in visa applications and residence status. Specifically, we handle the following services:

・Application for Certificate of Eligibility (when inviting someone from abroad)
・Application for Change of Residence Status (when changing visa type)
・Application for Extension of Period of Stay (when renewing a visa)
・Application for Certificate of Authorized Employment (when changing jobs, etc.)
・Application for Permanent Residence
・Application for Naturalization

We do more than simply prepare documents—we stand between companies and foreign nationals to help build legally compliant employment relationships.

■ The “Future Model” Demonstrated by Nagano Prefecture’s Initiative

The establishment of the “Nagano Japan-Vietnam Economic and Human Resource Exchange Association” has significance beyond the mere creation of an association.

Public-Private Collaboration Framework

By integrating the prefecture, companies, economic associations, and labor unions, a comprehensive support system can be established across institutional, practical, and lifestyle aspects.

The Concept of “Good Neighbors”

This phrase embodies the ideals of equal relationships, mutual understanding, and coexistence. It is the foundation of human rights respect and sustainable community building.

A Model for the Entire Nation

If Nagano Prefecture’s initiative succeeds, it will likely spread to other prefectures. Building a community-wide system to welcome foreign workers is a challenge for all of Japan.

■ Conclusion: Toward a Society Where We “Work, Live, and Enjoy Life Together”

Foreign workers are no longer a “temporary workforce.” They are members of the community and partners in building the future together.

Companies should ensure legal compliance and fair working conditions.
Communities should create welcoming environments and opportunities for exchange.
Foreign nationals should follow the rules and make efforts to integrate into society.
And we, as gyoseishoshi specialists, provide legal support to bridge these connections.

Nagano Prefecture’s initiative is the first step toward this ideal of coexistence. We hope this initiative will spread nationwide.

If you have any concerns regarding visas or residence status, please feel free to contact us. We are committed to contributing to a society where foreign workers can thrive in Japan with peace of mind.

【Reference】
https://news.yahoo.co.jp/articles/45006f13444338904df43c0b75fbe9efc3775c69

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