Japan has introduced new visa regulations to make it easier for foreign students to stay and work in the country, following growing demands from businesses and academic institutions.

The Immigration Services Agency of Japan announced that students graduating from state-designated technical schools will now be eligible to work in industries not strictly related to their field of study. This policy change is expected to allow around 3,000 additional foreign students per year to remain in Japan for employment.

Previously, many foreign students—despite acquiring technical skills and Japanese proficiency—had to return home if they couldn’t find jobs directly matching their studies. Under the new rules, technical schools will offer specialized programs, including practical training at companies, to better prepare students for a wider range of job opportunities.

Additionally, Japan has expanded eligibility for the “designated activities” visa, which permits foreign graduates to work in various fields. Previously limited to university and graduate school graduates, this visa is now available to students with high Japanese proficiency and academic qualifications equivalent to a bachelor’s degree, including those who have completed a four-year program at designated technical schools.

A survey by the Japan Student Services Organization in 2021 revealed that around 75% of foreign students at technical schools wished to work in Japan after graduation. This visa reform aligns with a government panel’s recommendations to simplify employment pathways for foreign graduates.

“We hope that students who have acquired specialized skills and a deep understanding of Japan will contribute to the workforce,” an official from the Immigration Services Agency stated.

These changes mark a significant step in supporting foreign talent and addressing labor shortages in Japan’s job market.