Foreigners In Japan To Provide Home Care Services

KUALA LUMPUR February 10, 2025 – The government of Japan has proposed an initiative to enable foreign residents to participate in home care services.

The plan was initially presented to an expert panel, emphasizing the need to address labor shortages by permitting foreigners to contribute to this sector under Japan’s skilled worker program.

Along with this proposal came the suggestion to ease current regulations in the food and industrial product manufacturing sectors, as this would allow foreigners to boost the workforce in these industries, both of which are facing a decline in employment.

These proposals were presented at the inaugural meeting of the panel, aiming to revise the country’s foreign worker programs. The Japanese government also intends to amend relevant operational guidelines for each sector, aligning with the immigration control law, set to finalize in spring.

Japan’s Manpower Shortage

Several factors contribute to Japan’s manpower challenge, including:

• An Aging Population – Japan’s high percentage of elderly citizens and low birth rate affects to a shrinking workforce.
• Work Preferences – The Japanese youth prefers land roles in corporate industries or technology compared to services sector including restaurants or manufacturing factories.
• Working Hours & Wages – Younger generations find long working hours and low wages in restaurant and manufacturing sectors unattractive.

To address these challenges, Japan has been considering measures such as increasing the influx of foreign workers and easing regulations to make these sectors more attractive to both domestic and international workers.

However, the nursing care sector currently restricts foreign workers from participating in home care services. According to the proposal, they are only able to do so under certain circumstances including completing a proper training.

In Japan, home care services refer to a range of support and assistance provided especially to elders or disabled individuals. Generally, the services provided in the country are renowned for their positive reputation, offering high-quality care that justifies the cost.