The Workers Rights 
Japan is welcoming foreign workers into its security industry – and April 2027 could be the tipping point. The National Police Agency (NPA) of Japan has decided to establish an expert panel to discuss the possibility of allowing security positions to be included in two major foreign worker visa schemes. Let’s take a simple look at what is happening, who it is for and how to get ready.
Quick Facts
| What’s changing | Security sector may be added to Japan’s foreign worker visa programmes |
| When | 2027 programme launch (April), panel report due (January 2027). |
| Who decides | Expert panel for NPA (6 members, including a lawyer, professor, industry rep) |
| Current law | Foreigners and spouses of Japanese nationals have been allowed to work in security already. |
| Key driver | Serious labour shortages across Japan’s security industry |
| What’s being decided | The eligibility requirements include worker quotas, eligible tasks and Japanese language requirements. |
Why Japan Needs Foreign Workers in Security
The Japanese authorities have well-established evidence of a shortage of workers in Japan, including an ageing society and a declining population, which are unable to meet the demand for labour. At events, transport hubs and commercial establishments, security work has been a perennial problem, with the jobs going unfilled.
To address this, Japan is making changes throughout its foreign worker system. The old Technical Intern Training Programme will be phased out and replaced by the new Employment for Skill Development Programme from April of 2027. The Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) visa is next to it, for foreign nationals to fill positions in recognised industries.
Both are now clamouring to get on the list, and that’s why security jobs in Japan for foreign workers are so hot.
What the Expert Panel Will Decide
The NPA’s six-member panel will give consideration to three questions that impact directly on the lives of those seeking jobs:
- This indicates the number of foreign workers that the security sector can accommodate.
- Tasks that can be performed — probably guarding or surveillance monitoring, event and facility security
- CPC level of Japanese language proficiency — the level required for security positions
The latter is the most important. Security work involves a strong component of communication, such as in emergencies, instructions, and public communication. Almost always there will be a formal language requirement (usually JLPT N3 or higher). The report of the panel will be issued by January 2027, and the NPA will ask for formal revisions to the programme from the Justice Ministry at this time.
Current Access vs. What Changes in 2027
| Now | Post-2027 (Proposed) |
| Who can work | Foreign residents + spouses of Japanese nationals |
| Visa pathway | There is no specific security visa. |
| Worker quota | No defined limit |
| Eligible tasks | Employer’s discretion |
| Language requirement | Not legally mandated |
| Recruitment structure | Ad-hoc |
What This Means for You
Already in Japan? Getting a resident visa or a spouse visa is an opportunity to work as a security professional. This would take place with the help of the new system, where you can get access to training and employers.
Outside Japan? Security is not an acceptable industry and to allow foreign workers to enter Japan, the security industry has to be added to the list of industries by the end of 2027.
Steps to take now:
- Begin Japanese language learning – the minimum standard is probably JLPT N3, but N2 will help you get a head start.
- Learn about the SSW visa – already 16 industries have an SSW visa route; security may be next.
- Be on the lookout for the January 2027 panel report, which will establish the rules.
While the hiring of foreigners for the security industry in Japan has not yet been officially confirmed, the trend is already underway and the timeline is set.
FAQs
Are foreign nationals allowed to be security guards in Japan at this time?
Yes – foreigners or spouses of Japanese nationals are not excluded by existing law. However, there is no specific visa for Japan for those who are coming for the purpose of security jobs. But 2027 may change that.
When will the new visa pathway be offered?
The new Employment for Skill Development Programme is scheduled to start on 1st April 2027. Inclusion of security depends on the report from the NPA panel in January 2027.
Is there a need for bilingualism in the Japanese language?
Almost certainly. The exact level will be determined by the expert panel, but based on the requirements of communication in the job, it is expected to be at the functional Japanese level (JLPT N3).
What visa would you recommend?
The Employment for Skill Development Programme visa and the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) visa. They both are under consideration by the panel for the security sector.
What number of foreign workers must be allowed into Japan?
It is not yet known. The recommendation on the quota will form part of the panel report to be published in January 2027.
Does this mean that this could become a permanent stay?
Possibly. There is an established pathway to longer-term residence, SSW Category 2. Next, if security follows in the same pattern, then foreign security workers in Japan may find themselves gaining a more permanent foothold in Japan one day.
Global Worker Rights Issues You Should Know
Who Pays Rising H-1B Extension Costs?
Check out what workers can do if employers refuse payment.
How Do Malaysian Workers Navigate Singapore?
Find the key housing, economic and retirement challenges.
Could UK Bosses Really Face Jail?
Uncover what the illegal hiring crackdown means for workers.
Why Are Ceuta Migrants Returning?
Browse the food, safety and migration pressures driving returns.
Can Europe Solve Its Labour Shortage?
See why migration controls clash with growing worker demand.
