Introduction

In recent years, many foreign nationals have been working in Japan under the “Specified Skilled Worker” system. This system, covering important industries such as elderly care and construction, provides residency status to foreign workers with certain skills. But what happens if a foreign worker on this visa commits a minor criminal offense, such as shoplifting or fighting? Is it still possible to renew their residency status? This article explains the impact on renewal procedures, based on information from government and official sources.

Overview of the Specified Skilled Worker System

According to official guidance from the Ministry of Justice and Immigration Services Agency, the “Specified Skilled Worker” system is divided into two categories:

• “Specified Skilled Worker (i)”: A residency status with a cumulative maximum of 5 years. Renewals are required every 1 year, 6 months, or 4 months.
• “Specified Skilled Worker (ii)”: Granted to individuals with more advanced skills; no maximum period for renewal.
  To apply, one must have a valid employment contract, the required skills, and (for Type i) Japanese language ability. The host organization is also responsible for supporting the worker.

What Are Minor Criminal Offenses?

“Minor criminal offenses” refer to relatively less serious crimes, such as shoplifting (theft) or minor injuries resulting from fighting. Immigration authorities may handle these offences differently, depending on the severity and legal evaluation.

Renewal Application and Criminal Records

Key Points in Renewal Review

When renewing “Specified Skilled Worker” status, immigration officers review whether the applicant maintains “good conduct”; this is outlined in Article 22 of the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act. If a final conviction is handed down, and the sentence is a fine or greater, renewal may be refused. However, the actual decision depends on various factors:

• The nature of the offense (severity, repeat offenses)
• The court’s verdict (only a fine, or probation, etc.)
• The applicant’s attitude and efforts at rehabilitation
  For first-time, minor offenses with sincere efforts to reform, renewal is not necessarily impossible.

Examples: Shoplifting and Fighting

For example, a first offense of shoplifting resulting only in a fine may not automatically bar renewal. However, the applicant must openly explain the situation, show remorse, and provide necessary documentation. Support from the host organization is also important. On the other hand, repeat offenses or sentences including probation make “good conduct” difficult to prove, leading to higher risk of refusal.

Required Steps and Precautions When Applying

Applicants may need to submit documents such as a copy of the judgement to support their application. Concealing the facts can result in rejection or even deportation. The host company is obligated to promptly report incidents to the Immigration Services Agency; failing to do so puts their acceptance of foreign workers at risk.

Important Points and Examples

Some real examples include:

• Renewal was approved for a worker fined for shoplifting but who had shown remorse and gained positive evaluations at work
• Renewal was approved for a first-time injury charge after fighting, as the applicant demonstrated sincere efforts at rehabilitation
  Conversely, renewal was refused for repeat offenses or concealment of facts. Details such as personal information and company names are omitted to avoid misunderstandings, but honesty and remorse are emphasized.

Summary

Even if a minor criminal offense occurs during residency under the Specified Skilled Worker system, renewal is not absolutely impossible. The content of the offense, attitude toward remorse and prevention, and honest disclosure are key. Concealing facts is strictly prohibited. Anyone concerned should consult with professionals or administrative scriveners early.