Japan immigration agency to work more with other ministries on illegal foreign labor
According to the agency, more than 70% of foreign nationals who faced deportation procedures last year were found to have worked illegally.
Japan's Immigration Services Agency plans to collaborate more closely with various government ministries to combat illegal foreign labor, starting in October. The agency's officials will join inspections of demolition and construction sites overseen by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism. By being present at these sites, the agency aims to assess conditions where unauthorized employment occurs and subsequently take appropriate administrative actions or involve law enforcement as needed.
In addition to the Land Ministry, the Immigration Agency is considering partnerships with the Environment Ministry and the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries. Data shows that over 70% of foreign nationals facing deportation last year were found to have worked illegally. In May, the Justice Ministry introduced its "Zero Illegal Immigrants" strategy, intensifying government efforts to target businesses that enable illegal labor.
While the Transport Ministry routinely patrols construction sites alongside local authorities, those officials lack legal authority to verify the identities of foreign workers, even if there is suspicion of unauthorized labor. Under the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act, foreign residents must carry their residence cards at all times.
As such, Immigration Agency officers are authorized to request these cards and intend to accompany inspections to take immediate action. The agency also intends to coordinate with the Environment Ministry, which oversees outdoor storage facilities where waste materials are kept, as these sites have been identified as potential hotspots for illegal work.
Currently, the agency is coordinating joint inspections with local municipalities that have established their own regulatory measures. Agriculture is another sector where illegal labor is prevalent, particularly during planting and harvesting periods. Consequently, the Immigration Agency plans to work with the farm ministry to raise awareness about this issue.
Written by urgent.news from Japan Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
