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Japan is set to temporarily halt the issuance of Certificates of Eligibility for foreign workers in its restaurant industry, as the sector nears its maximum quota under the specified skilled worker program. The cap of 50,000 workers is expected to be reached by May, prompting authorities to take immediate action.
The decision, announced by the Immigration Services Agency of Japan, will come into effect from April 13. This pause reflects the government’s effort to manage workforce limits within a program designed to regulate foreign labor across various industries.
Japan’s restaurant sector has been grappling with persistent labor shortages, a challenge intensified by the steady rise in inbound tourism. As more international visitors return, the demand for dining services has surged, placing additional pressure on businesses already struggling to maintain adequate staffing levels.
The specified skilled worker program was introduced to address labor gaps and aims to bring in up to 800,000 foreign workers across multiple sectors by 2029. However, each industry operates under its own cap, and the restaurant sector is among the first to approach its limit.
Officials have indicated that approvals may resume once the number of foreign workers declines, suggesting a dynamic approach to managing labor inflows. Still, the move underscores a broader challenge for Japan balancing strict immigration policies with the practical needs of its economy.
For restaurant owners and industry stakeholders, the temporary halt raises concerns about sustaining operations during peak demand periods. At the same time, it highlights the growing reliance on foreign workers in keeping essential sectors running smoothly.
