IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? The Immigration Services Agency has announced a draft bill that would require nationals of China, Indonesia, Myanmar, Nepal, the Philippines and Vietnam who are coming to Japan to work on assignment to undergo a tuberculosis test beginning July 1, 2020.

What does the change mean? Assignees from the six countries would have to be tested in their home country at a hospital designated by the Japanese government and obtain a medical certificate proving the absence of tuberculosis before traveling to Japan.

  • Implementation time frame: The requirement would take effect July 1, 2020.
  • Visas/permits affected: Mid and long-term visas/residence cards.
  • Who is affected: Nationals of the six countries mentioned above.
  • Business impact: The requirement will add another step to the work-authorized visa application process.
  • Next steps: The bill is open for a public comment period ending in February or March. Thereafter, an official announcement will be made.

Background: At present, only applicants for the Specified Skilled Worker visa require medical clearance. The bill would expand the requirement to nationals of the six countries when applying for Issuance of Certificate of Eligibility for mid- and long-term visas.

Analysis & Comments: Although the tuberculosis testing requirement has yet to be introduced, employers should anticipate the additional step when applying for mid and long-term visas for assignees from the six countries planning to travel to Japan this summer. The bill would exempt assignees who are nationals of one of the six countries but who reside outside the listed countries. Additional details about the progress of the bill will be reported as they become available.

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