Japan has introduced language proficiency requirements for certain applicants of the 'Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services' visa, effective immediately. Applicants whose work centers on language skills — such as translation, interpretation, and customer-facing roles — must now demonstrate proficiency at CEFR B2 level, provable via JLPT N2 or a BJT score of 400+. The rule also applies to existing visa holders who change jobs to language-centric roles. Exemptions exist for graduates of Japanese institutions, those who completed compulsory education in Japan, and long-term residents of 20+ years. The change is part of a broader immigration compliance tightening effort. The move may strain the already oversubscribed JLPT testing system, which saw record applications of over 1 million for December 2025 and has been closing registration early due to demand.
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