Hey there! If you’re an IT professional thinking about bringing your skills to Japan, you’re exactly the kind of person the country is looking for.
You might have heard some news recently about Japan’s new Prime Minister, Sanae Takaichi, and her government talking about strengthening “foreigner policies.” When you’re planning a big move, words like that can sound a little worrying.
As your “friend on the ground” in Japan, I want to explain what’s happening, what the government is actually saying, and what it means (and doesn’t mean) for someone like you.
Japan’s Big Challenge: Why Foreign Talent is Needed
First, let’s look at what Prime Minister Takaichi said in her policy speech.
She stated that “Japan’s biggest problem is its declining population.”
Because of this, she clearly acknowledged, “It is a fact that there are fields that require foreign human resources.” She also stressed that inbound tourism is very important.
So, let’s be clear: Japan knows it needs skilled foreign professionals (like you!) and welcomes visitors. That hasn’t changed.
The “But”: Addressing Public Concerns
So, why the new focus? The government has also acknowledged that “a situation has arisen where the public feels anxiety and unfairness” regarding illegal acts or rule-breaking by some foreigners.
What issues are they talking about? They’ve pointed to several challenges:
- Misuse of the refugee application system.
- Inappropriate use of Japan’s social security system.
- Concerns about foreign capital buying land near sensitive national facilities.
- Friction between some Kurdish residents and local Japanese residents in Kawaguchi City (Saitama Prefecture).
The government feels these issues need to be addressed to maintain a fair and safe society.
The Key Message: “This is Not Xenophobia”
This is the most important part. Both the Prime Minister and the new minister in charge, Kimi Onoda, have been very strong on one point.
Prime Minister Takaichi said, “We will draw a line against xenophobia (haigaishugi).”
The new “Minister for the Promotion of an Orderly and Harmonious Society with Foreign Nationals,” Ms. Onoda, echoed this. She stated that while “we must not fall into xenophobia,” the government must ensure “the safety and security of the people.”
Their plan is clear: to take “strict measures against those who do not follow the rules” and to review and update systems that aren’t working well.
The message is targeted at rule-breakers and illegal activities, not at foreigners as a whole.
What This Means for You (The IT Professional)
Honestly, for someone like you planning to come to Japan to work in IT, this policy isn’t aimed at making your life difficult.
If you are coming on a proper work visa, paying your taxes, and respecting the local laws and customs, you are precisely the “foreign human resource” that Japan needs and welcomes.
It’s interesting—a recent TV talk show (Takeshi’s TV Tackle) highlighted this. It featured foreigners already living in Japan who were frustrated with the bad manners of some tourists. They said they “didn’t want to be seen as the same” as people who don’t follow the rules.
This shows that the desire for a comfortable, rule-based society is shared by everyone, Japanese and non-Japanese residents alike.
The government’s stated goal is to find and achieve a better form of “coexistence.” They aren’t closing the door; they are just trying to make sure the house rules are clear and fair for everyone living inside.
出典：首相官邸ホームページ
Title image source: Prime Minister’s Office website
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