Good news may be coming for skilled foreign workers in Japan—especially those who are expecting a baby. The Japanese government is now considering extending the five-year stay limit for foreign workers on the Specified Skilled Worker visa if they become pregnant.
This move aims to support foreign workers’ rights to have and raise children, while also helping Japan deal with its growing labor shortage.
Policy Changes Coming Soon
According to a government source, new rules could be announced as early as summer. The Ministry is currently discussing the idea with an expert panel. If approved, this change would prevent situations where pregnant workers lose their jobs or are forced to return home.
There have already been cases where foreign workers with Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) visas lost employment after becoming pregnant. A similar exemption already exists for those in Japan under the technical trainee program, which is why many believe this extension is both fair and necessary.
Understanding the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) Visa
The SSW visa allows foreigners to work in 16 industries that are short on labor—such as nursing care, construction, and agriculture. Many SSW visa holders used to be part of the technical trainee program, which will be phased out by 2027 in favor of a new system focused on skill-building and worker protection.
There are two types of SSW visas:
- SSW No. 1: Up to five years in Japan (no family allowed)
- SSW No. 2: Unlimited renewals, pathway to permanent residency, and the ability to bring family
As of September 2024, about 260,000 people held the No. 1 visa, while only 408 held the No. 2 visa.
What This Means for Foreign Workers
If the policy change goes through, pregnant skilled workers would not have to worry about being forced to leave Japan due to the five-year time limit. It would allow them to keep working and caring for their families—just like everyone else.
This change could make Japan an even more attractive place to work for skilled professionals from overseas.
