Japan implements language proficiency requirements for certain visa applicants

Article

• Japan now requires JLPT-equivalent B2 proficiency for certain work visa categories
• Aimed at reducing fraud where people obtain interpreter/skilled visas then do unrelated work
• Applies to specific visa categories, not blanket immigration restriction

Discussion

• Expats in Japan largely supportive: rule targets fraud, not genuine workers
• B2 is upper-intermediate — roughly 2-5 years of study — seen as a reasonable bar
• Context: Japan is importing record numbers of workers, many via student-visa loopholes
• Dissent: one commenter opposes immigration controls on principle

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