Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act
The Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act governs the entry, stay, and departure of foreign nationals in Japan. Originally enacted in 1951, the Act has been amended numerous times to address changing immigration patterns and labour market needs. The Act establishes visa categories, requirements for landing, conditions of stay, deportation procedures, and the recognition of refugees. The Immigration Services Agency is responsible for administration.
Legal area: Law governing the entry, stay, and rights of foreign nationals.
Year enacted: 1951
Full text: https://elaws.e-gov.go.jp/document?lawid=japan-immigration-control-act
Key Provisions
- Chapter II: Landing (visa requirements, landing permission)
- Chapter III: Status of residence and period of stay
- Chapter IV: Activities and restrictions (work, study, etc.)
- Chapter V: Deportation (grounds, procedures, detention)
- Chapter VI: Recognition of refugees and asylum seekers
- Chapter VII: Criminal provisions (illegal entry, overstay)
Significance
The Immigration Control Act has been significantly amended to address Japan’s labour shortages and ageing population. The introduction of the Specified Skilled Worker visa category in 2019 marked a major shift in Japan’s immigration policy. The Act’s refugee recognition system has been criticised for low recognition rates and restrictive interpretation. Japan faces ongoing challenges in integrating foreign workers while maintaining social cohesion. The 2023 amendments introduced further visa categories to address labour shortages.