Japan

The major cities of Japan include its capital, Tokyo, along with Yokohama, Osaka, Nagoya, Sapporo, Fukuoka, Kobe, Kawasaki, Kyoto and Sendai.

The national flag of Japan, known as the Hinomaru or "circle of the sun," displays a crimson-red circle on a white background. It symbolises Japan's identity and values such as purity and sincerity and has been the official flag since 1999.

The time difference between India Standard Time (IST) and Japan Standard Time (JST) is 3 hours and 30 minutes, with Japan being ahead of India.

The approximate straight-line distance between major cities such as New Delhi, India and Tokyo, Japan, is estimated to be around 5,500 kilometres (3,400 miles). The flight duration between New Delhi, India and Tokyo, Japan, typically ranges from 8 to 10 hours, depending on the specific flight route and any layovers.

In Japan, the most commonly spoken language is Japanese, which is the official language used universally across the country. English is also widely used for international communication, business and tourism purposes. Some ethnic communities communicate in Ryukyuan languages or Korean, reflecting Japan's linguistic diversity.

The official currency of Japan is the Japanese Yen. As of May 2024, 1 Japanese Yen (JPY) is equivalent to 0.53 Indian Rupees (INR).

Japan boasts a predominantly temperate climate, distinguished by four distinct seasons that vary significantly between its northern and southern regions. Northern Japan witnesses prolonged, harsh winters and relatively cool summers, while Central Japan experiences brief, chilly winters and cool, humid summers.

Japan's climate and topography contribute to its resilience in managing natural challenges. The nation experiences earthquakes, tsunamis, typhoons, heavy snowfall, volcanic eruptions and other natural phenomena, prompting a proactive approach to preparedness and response.

Japanese cuisine is renowned for its diversity and emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Staples such as rice, seafood and noodles form the foundation of many dishes.

Vegetarian: Vegetable tempura, Nasu dengaku, Okonomiyaki, Hiyayakko, Shojin ryori Vegan: Inari sushi, Vegetable yakisoba, Avocado maki sushi, Yasai itame, Kappa maki sushi Meat: Chicken katsu, Gyu don, Yakitori, Buta no kakuni, Sashimi

The Public Holidays in Japan are as follows:

• New Year’s Day: 1st January

• Coming of Age Day: 8th January

• National Foundation Day: 11th February

• Emperor’s Birthday: 23rd February

• Vernal Equinox Day: 20th March

• Shōwa Day: 29th April

• Constitution Memorial Day: 3rd May

• Greenery Day: 4th May

• Children’s Day: 5th May

• Marine Day: 15th July

• Mountain Day: 11th August

• Respect for the Aged Day: 16th September

• Autumnal Equinox Day: 23rd September

• Sports Day: 14th October

• Culture Day: 3rd November

• Labour Thanksgiving Day: 23rd November

Japan features an extensive network of subways and trains, vital for commuting within and between cities. However, suburban areas often have less comprehensive train services, with buses filling the gap in public transport. Japan provides a range of rail and city passes for regular travellers, offering convenient travel options. A lot of migrant workers also use bicycles for local transport.

• Greetings:

• Japanese greetings typically involve bowing rather than shaking hands, although handshakes are becoming more common, especially with foreigners. A Japanese handshake is usually light, often accompanied by a slight bow to show respect.

• Body Language:

• Nodding is important in Japanese communication to indicate understanding and attentiveness. Extended eye contact is considered impolite, so maintaining moderate eye contact is advised. Public displays of affection, such as hugging or excessive touching, should be avoided. Sitting upright with both feet on the floor is customary and crossing ankles should be avoided.

• Communication:

• Japanese often address others by their surname followed by "san," a term of respect. They tend to speak softly and appreciate pauses in conversation. Maintaining a comfortable distance during conversations is also a cultural norm.

• Shoes:

• In traditional Japanese settings like homes, temples and some restaurants, it's customary to remove shoes at the entrance. However, in Western-style restaurants and office buildings, wearing shoes indoors is generally acceptable.

• Drinking:

• Drinking in Japan is often a social activity. It's polite to pour drinks for others before filling your own glass and to hold your glass up when someone pours for you. A partially filled glass indicates you do not want more, whereas an empty glass suggests you would like a refill.

• Dining:

• When offered food, it's polite to hesitate before accepting. It's customary to try a bit of each dish, even if you don't eat much. Leaving a little food on your plate signifies satisfaction. Slurping noodles is acceptable and may even be seen as a compliment to the chef.

• Public Bathing:

• Traditional Japanese baths require removing all clothing and washing thoroughly before entering the communal bath. Inside, silence is observed and activities like swimming, eating or taking photos are considered inappropriate. Before exiting, towel dry in the designated area to maintain cleanliness.

• Dressing:

• Dressing in Japan leans towards modern and conservative styles. For business settings, men typically wear dark suits and ties, while women opt for dresses or suits with conservative colours and styles. Even if an invitation suggests casual attire, dressing neatly is often expected.

• Gifts:

• Gift-giving in Japan is a thoughtful gesture. Allow your Japanese counterpart to initiate the exchange and present gifts with both hands and a slight bow. It's customary to downplay the gift's significance by saying it's "just a small token." Proper wrapping is essential, as presentation matters as much as the gift itself.

India and Japan enjoy a well-established and positive relationship. This strategic partnership fosters a welcoming environment for skilled professionals seeking opportunities abroad. Japanese investment has demonstrably bolstered India's economic growth and skilled Indian talent is increasingly sought after in various sectors, including technology, manufacturing and healthcare. This strong collaboration presents a promising path for Indian skilled workers seeking to contribute their expertise within a supportive and dynamic market.

Approximately 40,000 Indians currently reside in Japan, with a historically significant population having lived in Kobe, one of Japan's major ports. Recently, the Kansai area has emerged as a focal point for Indians, surpassing Kobe in population percentage. Key Indian organisations in the Kansai area include The Indian Chamber of Commerce, Japan, The Indian Social Society, Japan and The Indian Club. Throughout Japan, numerous Indian associations exist, listed on the Embassy of India, Tokyo's website.

1) e-Migrate To regulate overseas employment, particularly to protect less educated blue-collar workers, the Emigration Check Required (ECR) process is managed through a unique computerised system known as ‘e-Migrate’. This system harmonises all parties involved in the emigration process, facilitating efficient collaboration among stakeholders.

2) MADAD

Operated by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the MADAD portal serves as a platform to assist and resolve various consular and diaspora-related issues faced by Indian citizens abroad. MADAD, short for “MEA's Assistance to Diaspora in Distress”, allows individuals to register and seek help for concerns including passport and visa issues, legal and financial problems and other consular services.

FAQs for MADAD can be accessed here: Consular Services Welcome Message | Consular Services (madad.gov.in)

3) Pravasi Bharatiya Bima Yojana

The Pravasi Bharatiya Bima Yojana is a mandatory insurance programme aimed at safeguarding Indian emigrant workers heading for overseas employment in ECR-designated countries. It provides benefits such as insurance coverage for accidental death or permanent disability, medical insurance, repatriation cover for medically unfit or prematurely terminated employment, family hospitalisation, maternity expenses, legal expenses for litigation and more.

4) Pravasi Kaushal Vikas Yojana

The Pravasi Kaushal Vikas Yojana is a skill enhancement initiative for Indian youth seeking employment in high-demand sectors on the global job market. It is overseen by the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) in collaboration with the MEA and the Union Ministry of Skill Development.

5) Pravasi Bharatiya Sahayata Kendra

Established by the Ministry of External Affairs, the Pravasi Bharatiya Sahayata Kendra (PBSK) serves as a dedicated facilitation centre providing essential assistance to individuals aspiring to work abroad. PBSK aims to streamline support services for migrant and potential migrant workers, offering guidance and aid on relevant matters.

6) Indian Community Welfare Fund

The Indian Community Welfare Fund (ICWF), operational across all Indian Missions and Posts globally, provides crucial aid to overseas Indian citizens during emergencies and urgent situations. It prioritises assistance based on a means-tested approach to those in greatest need, facilitating emergency repatriation from conflict zones, natural disaster-affected areas and other challenging circumstances.

More information is available here: https://www.myscheme.gov.in/schemes/icwf

7) FAQs by Ministry of External Affairs

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) oversees matters related to Indian migrants working abroad. It is recommended for individuals and families to familiarise themselves with the guidelines provided by the MEA.

Relevant information can be found here: https://mea.gov.in/repatriation-to-india.htm

8) Legal Assistance Abroad

Indian Missions may offer initial legal assistance to Indian migrants abroad, primarily in deserving cases and subject to means-testing, where the individual cannot afford legal help independently.

Further details can be found here: https://mea.gov.in/legal-assistance-abroad.htm

Finding employment opportunities in Japan can be a challenging endeavour, requiring navigating job searches, applications, migration processes and settling into a new country. The National Skill Development Corporation International offers assistance in finding legitimate work opportunities in Japan, thereby reducing the risk of encountering fraudulent schemes.

For Indians, two main programmes provide avenues for legitimate work in Japan: the Technical Intern Training Programme (TTIP) and the Specified Skilled Workers (SSW) programme.

1) Technical Intern Training Programme (TITP)

The Technical Intern Training Programme (TITP) is a collaboration between the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) of India and various Japanese ministries. It aims to transfer skills and knowledge gained in Japan back to developing nations like India.

Eligible candidates, aged 18 years and above and of Indian nationality, undergo training in India facilitated by Approved Sending Organisations (SOs). This training includes Japanese language proficiency and specific domain training essential for working in Japan. Upon selection by Supervising Organisations (SVOs/IOs) in Japan, candidates receive a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) through their SOs, which is necessary for their visa application process.

2) Specified Skilled Workers (SSW)

The Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) programme was introduced by Japan to address specific labour shortages across designated sectors. Candidates, also aged 18 years or older, must demonstrate knowledge or experience in one of the specified sectors mentioned below:

• Nursing care

• Building cleaning management

• Shipbuilding and ship machinery industry

• Aviation industry

• Agriculture

• Manufacture of food and beverages

• Automobile repair and maintenance

• Construction industry

• Machine parts & tooling/ Industrial machinery/ Electric, electronics & information Industries

• Accommodation industry

• Fishery & aquaculture

• Food service industry

Successful applicants need to pass Japanese language proficiency tests (N4 level or above) and sector-specific skills proficiency tests unless they have completed three years in the TITP programme in the same sector.

Once selected by a Japanese company, candidates apply for a status of residence through Immigration, allowing them to stay in Japan for up to five years.

3) Resources and Further Information

For Indians interested in exploring these opportunities, resources such as the NSDC provide detailed information on both the TITP and SSW programmes.

Additionally, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) offers essential travel advisories and guidelines regarding employment in Japan. The Immigration Services Agency of Japan provides comprehensive details on the COE and visa application processes. Further support and detailed guidelines on the Specified Skilled Worker programme are available through the official support website for SSW by the Japanese Government.

The Embassy of India in Japan is located in Tokyo. The contact details are as follows:

• Embassy of India, Tokyo

Address: 2-2-11 Kudan-Minami, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo - 102-0074

Telephone: +81 3 3262-2391 to 97

Fax: +81 3 3234-4866

• Consulate General of India, Osaka-Kobe

Address: Consulate General of India, 10F, Semba I.S. Building, 1-9-26, Kyutaromachi, Chuo-ku, Osaka - 541-0056

Telephone: 00-81-06-4963-3219 (Visa enquiries) / 06-6261-7299 / 06-6261-9299

Fax: 00-81-6-6261-7201

• Consular Functions

Consular functions are an important part of the duties and responsibilities entrusted to designated officers of Indian Missions/Posts abroad. These duties broadly include:

a) Welfare of Indians abroad,

b) Financial assistance to Indian citizens and repatriation of Indian citizens,

c) Registration of births and deaths of Indian citizens,

d) Solemnisation of marriages under the Special Marriage Act 1969, Foreign Marriage Act 1969 and the rules thereunder,

e) Consular assistance to arrested Indian citizens,

f) Assistance in case of the death of Indian citizens, including death compensation and the remittance thereof,

g) Assistance relating to war graves, war damage pay, pension and provident fund,

h) Dealing with civil and criminal proceedings against Indians abroad.

Indian migrants living in Japan may encounter various challenges during their stay. Addressing these issues positively can help navigate and overcome obstacles effectively.

1) Visa and Employment Issues

• Expired Visa: If your visa has expired and your employer is not renewing it, making your stay illegal, consider seeking assistance from the Indian embassy or consulate to facilitate your return to India.

• Passport Retention: If your employer insists on holding your passport, politely explain that it is essential for your identification and travel. Seek consular assistance if the issue persists.

• Passport Confiscation: In case your employer has taken your passport, reach out to the Indian consulate for help in retrieving it and ensuring your safe return to India.

• Job Role Discrepancy: If you are being asked to perform physical labour despite being hired as a skilled worker, discuss the situation with your employer. If unresolved, seek advice from the Indian consulate or local labour authorities.

• Visa and Contract Cancellation: Should your employer cancel your visa or contract, immediately contact the Indian embassy or consulate for guidance on your next steps.

2) Lodging Complaints Against a Foreign Employer

Utilise consular services in Japan, the e-Migrate system or the MADAD Portal to register complaints against your employer. These platforms are designed to assist you in resolving such issues.

3) Keeping in Touch with Your Family

Maintaining communication with your family is crucial for emotional well-being and safety.

• Pre-Departure: Share your employer's contact details with your family in India and carry the contact numbers of all your family members when you travel to Japan.

• Post-Arrival: Once you have your Japanese phone number, share it with your family. Additionally, with permission, share the contact numbers of your co-workers for emergency situations.

• Social Media: Utilise platforms such as WhatsApp or Facebook to stay connected with your family once you have internet access.

• Regular Communication: Regular calls to your family can help alleviate feelings of alienation and estrangement, ensuring you feel supported and connected.

• By addressing challenges proactively and maintaining strong communication with your family, you can have a more positive and fulfilling experience as a migrant worker in Japan.

The cost of living in Japan for a migrant worker is balanced by the benefits of residing in a well-developed and efficient society. Although urban centres like Tokyo and Osaka can be costly in terms of housing and daily expenses, there are also more affordable areas with reasonable housing and living costs. Essential items such as groceries, public transport and healthcare services are generally of high quality and are accessible to all residents. Also, the availability of various job opportunities and the potential for competitive salaries make it feasible for migrant workers to maintain a comfortable lifestyle while experiencing the rich culture and modern conveniences that Japan offers.

Migrant workers in Japan often face the significant hurdle of a language barrier, as Japanese is the predominant language used in daily interactions and professional contexts. This can initially present challenges in communication and integration. However, there is reassurance in knowing that NSDC International offers tailored language training programmes to mitigate this issue.

These programmes are designed to equip individuals with essential language skills necessary for effective communication, facilitating a smoother transition and enhanced integration into both professional environments and daily life.

Migrant workers in Japan are afforded legal protections under various labour laws aimed at ensuring fair treatment and safe working conditions. These rights include equal treatment regardless of nationality, protection from forced labour and safeguards against discrimination.

1. Labour Standards Act

2. Labour Contracts Act

3. Minimun Wage Act

2. Industrial Safety and Health Act

General Visa: Technical Intern Training (i) (a)/(b)

Indian nationals planning to work in Japan under the Technical Intern Training Programme (TITP) must apply for this visa. The visa allows a stay of up to one year, determined by the Minister of Justice. Required documents include a valid passport, completed visa application form, one passport-size photograph and the Certificate of Eligibility (original or copy).

Working Visa for Specified Skilled Worker (i/ii)

For those seeking employment under specified skilled categories in Japan, two options exist:

i. Offers a duration of 1 year, 6 months or 4 months.

ii. Allows stays of 3 years, 1 year or 6 months.

Applicants must submit their passport, completed visa application form, one passport-size photograph and the Certificate of Eligibility (original or copy). It is mandatory to include the Certificate of Eligibility with the visa application.

Upon arrival in Japan, Indian migrants staying for more than three months must obtain a Residence Card. This card serves as their official identification, displaying personal details, residency status and period of stay. It can be used for administrative procedures and contractual agreements.

Issuance of Residence Card:

• Issued upon initial entry at specified airports (e.g., Narita, Haneda, Kansai) or through a municipal office after notifying the change of residence.

• Renewal is required for extensions or changes in residency status.

Carrying Requirements: Individuals aged 16 and over must carry their Residence Card at all times, as it serves as a primary identification document in Japan.

Foreign nationals who are permitted to live in Japan for over three months must enrol in either National Health Insurance (NHI) or in the health insurance system provided through their workplace. Below are key points regarding enrolment in the National Health Insurance (NHI) system and its benefits:

a) Enrolling in the NHI system provides an insurance card, essential for accessing healthcare services. It should be kept safe and carried at all times.

b) Participants contribute through insurance premiums to cover medical expenses.

c) Presenting the insurance card at hospitals typically reduces out-of-pocket expenses to around 30% of medical costs for treatment and medications.

Navigating financial matters as a migrant worker in Japan demands careful planning and foresight. Follow these essential practices to ensure your financial stability and security:

• Record-Keeping: Maintain detailed records of payments received, leaves taken and reimbursements owed. Track your savings and expenses separately for clarity and financial management.

• Banking Benefits: Request your employer to deposit your salary directly into your bank account. This practice safeguards your earnings from theft, accrues modest interest and facilitates seamless remittance transfers to your family.

• Budget Wisely: Develop a comprehensive budget that accounts for savings goals, regular expenses, emergency funds, insurance contributions and remittances. Effective budgeting ensures financial discipline and prepares you for future financial needs.

• Seek Safe Investments: Consult with your bank to explore secure investment options tailored to your financial objectives. Investing wisely can generate additional income from your savings over time.

• Manage Debt Prudently: Minimise borrowing and only incur debt when necessary. If your employer provides financial assistance, use it responsibly for its intended purpose. Make regular repayments to clear debts promptly and avoid unnecessary financial strain.

• Avoid Signing Blank Documents: Protect yourself from potential fraud or legal issues by refusing to sign blank papers. Always read and understand the content of any document before signing, ensuring clarity and safeguarding your interests.

By adhering to these practices, you can navigate financial challenges with confidence while maximising your financial well-being as a migrant worker in Japan.

Navigating the complexities of living abroad, particularly in Japan, involves understanding the avenues of repatriation and deportation available to Indian migrants. Here’s a detailed look at what these terms entail and the support mechanisms provided by the Indian government through its embassy in Tokyo.

1. Repatriation:

Repatriation, facilitated by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), involves the process of returning individuals to their home country due to various circumstances. The MEA offers guidance on when and how repatriation can be sought, highlighting instances where costs are borne by the employer. This includes scenarios such as completing or terminating an employment contract or in unfortunate cases of death, where the employer covers repatriation expenses and settlement of dues to the deceased's family.

For further information on repatriation procedures, visit MEA's official guidance.

In instances where Indian migrant workers and their families no longer meet legal residence conditions in Japan, the Embassy of India collaborates with Japanese authorities to facilitate their smooth return to India, including the issuance of temporary passports.

2. Deportation:

Contrarily, deportation occurs when a foreign national violates immigration laws in their host country, leading to expulsion by local authorities. While the Indian embassy may not prevent deportation for immigration violations, it can intervene in cases where the migrant feels unfairly targeted or claims innocence. The embassy can advocate on behalf of the individual with local immigration authorities to address concerns and ensure fair treatment.