Transportation
1 Current Situation of Foreign Employment in the Transportation Industry
Facing a severe labor shortage, the transportation industry has recognized the importance of employing foreign workers to meet the growing demand for logistics services.
In response, the transportation sector was added to the list of fields eligible for the Specified Skilled Worker program, allowing companies to recruit foreign workers for roles such as truck drivers and delivery services.
This has opened new avenues for talent acquisition within the industry.
Consequently, the implementation of the Specified Skilled Worker exam and the development of related training systems have progressed, and many companies are now actively considering hiring foreign workers.
2 Residence Statuses Eligible for Employment in the Transportation Industry
⑴ Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services
The "Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services" residence status is intended for foreign nationals engaged in work utilizing specialized knowledge and skills.
In the transportation industry, this status is primarily used for logistics management and international business operations such as optimizing logistics routes, managing systems, negotiating with overseas customers and partner companies, preparing trade-related documents, and coordinating operations.
Please note that this residence status does not permit employment in fieldwork roles such as truck driving, so it is generally used to hire foreign workers primarily for managerial positions.
⑵ Specified Skilled Worker
The “Specified Skilled Worker” residence status is designed to accept foreign workers who can contribute immediately to the transportation industry.
It covers roles such as truck driving for delivery operations, loading operations in warehouses, and coordinating delivery plans.
This visa permits employment for up to five years and allows workers to be directly involved in on-site tasks.
As a result, many companies are actively considering utilizing this status.
⑶ Activities Outside the Scope of Residence Status
“Permission to Engage in Activities Outside the Scope of Residence Status” refers to the authorization required for foreign nationals, mainly those residing in Japan under the Student or Dependent status, to work part-time.
In the transportation industry, permitted activities include delivery assistance work and warehouse operations such as sorting and light labor, assisting with deliveries (excluding driving), and administrative support.
Please note that working hours are limited to 28 hours per week.
3 Acceptance of Foreign Personnel
Companies that employ foreign personnel must meet certain conditions.
For example, it may be necessary to ensure an appropriate working environment and provide support for the daily lives of foreign personnel.
In the transportation industry, knowledge of Japanese traffic laws and cultural norms is essential.
Therefore, companies are expected to establish systems that provide adequate education and training prior to employment.
By fulfilling these requirements, companies can employ foreign personnel with confidence.












