China Overseas Chinese Network, May 26. According to Japan's "Chinese Herald" report, recently, Japan's Immigration and Residence Administration released data saying that by the end of March 2022, the number of foreign workers in Japan holding "specific skills" visas exceeded 60,000. , an increase of more than 40,000 people over the same period last year.
The "Specified Skills" visa is a new status of residence established by the Japanese government in April 2019. The main purpose is to alleviate the labor shortage in Japan caused by the aging population and declining birth rate. of the industry are included in foreign workers.
According to published statistics, the number of "Specified Skills" visa programs has reached 64,730 since it was launched three years ago.
Among them, more than 58,000 people have changed from visas such as "technical intern training" and "study abroad" to "specified skills" visas, accounting for about 90% of the total, while foreign workers who entered Japan through overseas "specified skills" examinations The number is only 6513 people.
Divided by countries and regions, Vietnam has the largest number, with 46,960 people, accounting for more than 60%; followed by the Philippines, with 6,251 people; Indonesia, with 5,855 people.
Divided by the field of work, the food and beverage manufacturing industry has more than 22,000 people, accounting for 35.5% of the total; followed by agriculture with 8,153 people, accounting for 12.6% of the total; in addition, the accommodation industry has only 124 people, accounting for 0.2% of the total; catering There are 2,312 people in the industry, accounting for 3.6% of the total; this fully reflects the sharp drop in hotel demand due to the impact of the new crown epidemic.
The Japanese government had earlier estimated that 345,000 foreign workers had passed "specified skills" visas in five years, but this figure was far lower than expected due to the impact of the new crown virus raging around the world and tightening border controls in various regions.
The Immigration and Residence Administration said that the new crown epidemic has indeed reduced the increase in the number of people holding "specific skills" visas, but the number has continued to rise to a certain extent. If the new crown epidemic subsides, the number is expected to be more.
It is reported that "specific skills" are divided into No. 1 for a total of five years of residence, and No. 2 for those with skilled skills.
There is no upper limit on the renewal of the residence time of No. 2, and family members are also allowed. It requires more skills than No. 1, and needs to pass the test and experience as a foreman, so it is not easy to obtain certification.
Currently, only those working in construction and shipbuilding can apply for this visa.
Japan originally had a "technical intern" residence status for foreign workers, but the visa is only for a maximum of 5 years and must return to the country after expiration. Therefore, a large number of foreign workers holding this visa can only continue to work in the country by obtaining a "specific skills" visa. Work in Japan.
(Wu Yan)