Foreign workers in Japan can switch jobs in 1 to 2 years under plan

Wait time extended in proposed trainee program after employers voice concerns

20231115N Japan foreign workers

A technical intern from abroad works as a mechanic in Japan. (Photo by Shihoko Nakaoka)

TAISHU YUASA, Nikkei staff writer

TOKYO -- Foreign workers in a new international trainee program that Japan plans to launch may be able to switch jobs after up to two years, according to a new proposal published by an expert government panel Wednesday.

Japan is currently designing a replacement for the troubled technical intern program, which has come under fire for low pay and labor abuses. Among the chief complaints are that interns cannot move to a different employer except under extraordinary circumstances.

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