1. Introduction

In recent years, many countries have moved toward stricter immigration control policies, reflecting growing concern over social integration and labor market stability(2025-06-21 NIKKEI Asia). One trend within these policies is the implementation of language proficiency requirements, which often mandate a certain level of proficiency in the host country’s language. This is not merely to ensure linguistic ability but also to facilitate smoother integration into society and the workforce.

Japan is no exception. Various residence statuses in Japan either explicitly or implicitly require Japanese language ability. In this essay, I will outline which residence statuses include Japanese language requirements and which do not, along with the rationale behind these policies.

2. Categories of Residence Statuses and Language Requirements

Japan classifies residence statuses into categories such as “Activity-Based Statuses” (e.g., Technical Intern Training, Specified Skilled Worker, Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services), and “Status Based on Personal Relationship or Status” (e.g., Permanent Resident, Spouse of a Japanese National, Long-Term Resident). Among these, some require Japanese language ability while others do not.

(1) Residence Statuses with Japanese Language Requirements

Several residence statuses have explicit Japanese language requirements:

  • Technical Intern Training ProgramThis status is intended for skills transfer and human resource development. Applicants are generally expected to have basic Japanese language ability equivalent to JLPT N4 (Japanese Language Proficiency Test) before arriving in Japan. This ensures that trainees can adapt to the workplace and daily life, promoting safety and communication.
  • Specified Skilled Worker (Type 1)This status requires passing either the JFT-Basic test or the JLPT N4, in addition to a skills test in a specific industry. This requirement exists to guarantee basic communication ability necessary for workplace tasks.
  • Nursing Care (Kaigo)The “Care Worker” residence status requires at least JLPT N2 proficiency. This is due to the need for close, nuanced communication with elderly individuals, where language misunderstandings can have serious consequences.
  • Student (Ryugaku)Although not regulated by law, many universities and vocational schools require a certain level of Japanese ability for admission, typically JLPT N2 or N1. This is to ensure students can understand lectures and complete coursework effectively.

(2) Residence Statuses without Japanese Language Requirements

Some statuses do not explicitly require Japanese language ability:

  • Highly Skilled ProfessionalThis status is granted to individuals with advanced expertise in academic or professional fields. Evaluation criteria focus on education, income, and professional achievements rather than language ability. These individuals often work in international settings where English may be the primary language.
  • Business ManagerThis status is for individuals operating or managing businesses in Japan. Japanese language is not a formal requirement, though in practice it may be advantageous. The focus is on the viability and scale of the business operation rather than the applicant’s language skills.
  • Status Based on Personal Relationship or Status (Permanent Resident, Spouse of Japanese National, Long-Term Resident)These statuses are generally based on family or long-term ties rather than employment, and Japanese language ability is not a formal requirement. However, in the case of permanent residency applications, applicants may be expected to demonstrate Japanese language ability equivalent to JLPT N2 in practice, particularly from a social integration standpoint.

3. Rationale Behind Japanese Language Requirements

(1) Ensuring Workplace and Daily Life Adaptation

The primary purpose of Japanese language requirements in certain residence statuses is to ensure that foreign nationals can function safely and effectively in the workplace and in everyday life. Especially in hands-on fields like technical training or nursing care, language barriers can lead to safety risks or miscommunication, making language proficiency a prerequisite for success.

(2) Promoting Social Integration

Language is a key factor in integrating into Japanese society. Without sufficient Japanese proficiency, foreigners may face isolation in their communities, struggle to access public services, or have difficulties raising children. From this perspective, language requirements serve as a gateway to broader societal participation.

(3) Alignment with Host Institutions

From the perspective of Japanese employers, schools, and local governments, hosting individuals with a minimum level of Japanese language ability reduces the burden of training and support. In the case of Technical Intern Trainees and Specified Skilled Workers, Japanese host companies are required to provide guidance and supervision, which becomes easier if the worker already has basic language skills.

4. Challenges and Future Directions

Going forward, the inclusion of Japanese language requirements in residence statuses must be balanced with labor market needs, international talent competition, and policies for inclusive integration. For highly skilled professionals, an English-speaking environment may be sufficient, while for general workers or residents, support systems for Japanese language learning must be expanded.

It is also important to not only set language requirements at the entry level but to provide ongoing opportunities for language learning during residency. This includes public Japanese classes, access to study materials, and encouragement to take standardized tests like the JLPT.

5. Conclusion

Japanese language requirements in residence statuses reflect the nature and purpose of each status. For those working in hands-on jobs or studying in Japan, language proficiency is essential to ensure safety, participation, and success. On the other hand, for highly skilled professionals or business managers, flexibility is given to allow for global diversity.

In the future, Japan must pursue a more holistic policy that combines reasonable language expectations with support systems for learning and integration, ensuring that all foreign residents—regardless of background—can contribute meaningfully to society.