Expert Coordinators Help Resolve Complex Administrative and Daily Life Issues in Japan
As the number of foreign residents in Japan grows, the challenges they face in various areas—such as visas, employment, healthcare, and daily life—are becoming increasingly complex. To address these issues, the "Foreigner Support Coordinator" system introduced by the Immigration Services Agency of Japan (ISA) is expanding nationwide.
Foreigner Support Coordinators go beyond simple guidance; they are experts who collaborate with various administrative agencies to provide professional consultations and solutions for complex administrative and daily life issues faced by foreign residents. For foreigners starting their studies or careers in Japan, this system is expected to serve as a reliable resource for local adaptation and problem-solving.
Deployment Completed Across 38 Prefectures, Certified Experts at Work
Under the "Foreigner Support Coordinator" certification system launched by the ISA in fiscal year 2024, a total of 162 coordinators have passed the certification and have been deployed to consultation desks across 38 prefectures in Japan.
These coordinators have had their expertise verified through the following rigorous process:
- Completion of Professional Training: They study specialized knowledge across a wide range of fields, including status of residence (visa) systems, immigration procedures, and mental health care to support the psychological well-being of foreign residents.
- Passing the Certification Exam: After completing the training program, they must pass a certification test to officially practice as coordinators.
- Validity Period Management: The certification is valid for three years, requiring continuous maintenance of professional expertise.
With these systematically trained experts stationed at local government consultation desks, foreign residents can now receive more accurate and practical assistance, even when facing language barriers or complex legal procedures.
Plans to Significantly Increase Staff and Expand Scope of Activities
The Japanese government plans to further strengthen the support system to meet the growing demand from foreign residents and the diversifying nature of consultations.
First, the government aims to double the number of coordinators to approximately 300 within the current fiscal year. This initiative is designed to reduce waiting times and improve the quality of consultations.
Their scope of activity will also expand significantly. Currently, their work is limited to official consultation desks run by national or local governments. However, starting in the next fiscal year (FY 2027), they will provide outreach services directly to the places where foreigners live and work. Specifically, their reach will expand to:
- Companies and workplaces where foreigners are employed
- Universities and vocational schools where foreign students are enrolled
- Private foreigner support organizations
This expansion is expected to allow workers and students who find it difficult to visit administrative offices in person to conveniently receive professional consultations in their daily environments.
Enhancing Expertise Through Better Treatment and National Qualification Discussions
The ISA is reviewing ways to raise the social recognition of Foreigner Support Coordinators and to improve their evaluation and treatment in line with their expertise. To create an environment where coordinators can focus on their work stably, the agency plans to present specific directions for improving their treatment within this year.
In addition, a review committee composed of experts is holding in-depth discussions on upgrading this system to a "national qualification" in the future. The ISA plans to closely analyze advanced cases from major overseas countries and review their feasibility before making a final decision on national qualification status.
If you are experiencing difficulties with unexpected visa issues or administrative procedures while living in Japan, it is highly recommended to visit your local government office and seek assistance from a state-certified "Foreigner Support Coordinator."
Tools: Internet Finder
Source: 時事通信