Japan is considering a revision to its foreign worker intake system by proposing the inclusion of the aviation sector into the Employment for Skill Development Program. The draft plan allocates 300 places specifically for airport ground handling roles, such as cargo loading and unloading, while maintaining a total ceiling of 4,900 workers for the aviation sector, dedicated primarily to the Specified Skilled Worker Type 1 category.
This proposal was presented at a recent expert-panel meeting on September 9, marking the initial step in revising sector-specific policies. The government aims to secure a Cabinet decision by December to formalize these changes.
Background and Context
Under current regulations, aviation workers under the Specified Skilled Worker program are subject to a ceiling of 4,900, with categories including airport ground handling and aircraft maintenance. The proposed addition would not expand the overall sector ceiling but would instead allocate 300 of these positions to the new Employment for Skill Development scheme, commencing in April 2027 with legislation replacing the Technical Intern Training Program.
The framework for Employment for Skill Development emphasizes a typical employment and training period of approximately three years, aiming to prepare workers for the more advanced Skilled Worker status. If approved, this policy would enable Japan to better address labor shortages in vital airport operations, aligning immigration and labor policies with industry needs.
While the change has not yet been officially adopted, the proposed policy shifts reflect Japan’s broader efforts to overhaul its foreign worker policies and expand skills development opportunities within critical sectors such as aviation.
