Trend of foreigners leaving Japan may "accelerate" under tighter visa rules
TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Ray Hoe left Japan to return to Singapore on July 18 after failing to renew his business manager visa following abrupt changes to the
A recent wave of foreigners leaving Japan could intensify due to more stringent visa regulations, according to experts. Ray Hoe, a business manager visa holder, departed for Singapore in July after being unable to secure a visa renewal following changes to the requirements. His plans to open a hotel business in Toyama were thwarted when he was denied the necessary hotel license, leading to his deportation.
Ray's experience highlights the challenges faced by foreigners attempting to establish businesses in Japan under the new rules, which prioritize revenue proof for hotel licenses. Immigration authorities require such proof, which Ray was unable to provide without a hotel license. The tightening of permanent residency requirements, aimed at curbing illegal activities, may further accelerate this trend.
Experts believe the stricter pathways and Japanese proficiency requirements could lead to a polarization between highly skilled professionals and temporary workers, potentially reducing Japan's attractiveness as a place for foreigners to work and live.
Written by urgent.news from The Mainichi's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
