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Japan to Overhaul Migrant Labor, Cut Worker Cap

12/26/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Japan plans a major overhaul of migrant labor programs, including reducing the Specified Skilled Worker Type 1 cap from 820,000 to 805,700.
The change reflects anticipated productivity gains from technology, while Japan may need 19 million workers by 2030.
The Technical Intern Training Program will be phased out.
A Cabinet decision is expected by January, with onboarding under the new framework starting in March 2027.

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Story summary

Japan plans a major overhaul of migrant labor programs, including reducing the Specified Skilled Worker Type 1 cap from 820,000 to 805,700.
The change reflects anticipated productivity gains from technology, while Japan may need 19 million workers by 2030.
The Technical Intern Training Program will be phased out.
A Cabinet decision is expected by January, with onboarding under the new framework starting in March 2027.