Japan is addressing its growing labor shortages, especially in transportation and logistics, by revamping its foreign worker visa program for the first time since 2019.

To address the scarcity of drivers, the program now offers extended stays of up to five years, focusing on road and rail transport, forestry, and timber industries.

Various factors, including a declining birth rate and shortages in transportation, drive the demand for foreign workers in Japan. The government aims to curb deficiencies by introducing new regulations and planning to restrict overtime hours for drivers.

Japan aims to admit 820,000 foreigners over the next five fiscal years under the revised skilled worker visa program, starting in April.

The government plans to review relevant regulations based on public opinion on the proposed reforms.

Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi urges ministers to facilitate the seamless integration of foreign workers into the workforce.

Skilled foreigners can work in the transport sector, including roles such as bus drivers, taxi drivers, and truck drivers, if employed by certified companies.

Applicants must demonstrate proficiency up to Level N3 in Japanese, particularly for roles involving passenger interaction.

Skilled workers in the railway sector will have diverse opportunities, including roles in train car construction, track maintenance, driving, conducting, and station staffing.

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