Employers hiring foreign nationals in Japan should not rely only on verbal explanations or SNS referrals. Residence card checks, status of residence, permitted work scope, and permission for activities outside the status of residence are essential for reducing illegal work and employer compliance risks.
Ibaraki Prefecture’s reporting reward system should not be understood as a general system for reporting foreign residents. Its main focus is information about businesses suspected of enabling illegal employment. This article explains key compliance points for employers, including residence card checks, work eligibility, job duties, foreign worker notifications, and anti-discrimination considerations.
Japan’s 2026 immigration fee reform and Cabinet Order proposal explained: proposed JPY 200,000 permanent residence fee, duration-based change and renewal fees, free residence card renewal for existing permanent residents, and the separate JESTA system.
Japan’s Specified Residence Card system started on June 14, 2026. The card integrates residence card and My Number Card functions, but obtaining it is optional and practical issues remain for online applications, issuance timing, and employer checks.
