Are there subsidies for hiring foreign workers in Japan?
By: Watari Editorial Team·Last updated: 2026-07-08
Employers often ask whether subsidies are available for hiring foreign workers. In short, there is generally no national subsidy specifically for hiring foreigners. However, general schemes for employment stability, human-resource development and workplace improvement may apply — if you meet the conditions — even when you employ foreign workers. Rules change yearly, so always confirm the latest requirements with the authorities (MHLW, prefectural Labour Bureaus, Hello Work, local governments).
The basic premise
There is essentially no subsidy you receive 'because the worker is foreign.' More accurately, foreign workers may be within scope of general employment and training schemes. Receipt requires detailed conditions, prior plan approval and a certain employment period — applying does not guarantee payment.
1. Career Up Subsidy (conversion to regular employment)
For employers who improve employment status, e.g. converting fixed-term to regular employment. Workers on statuses such as Specified Skilled Worker may be eligible if conditions are met. Courses and requirements are revised yearly.
2. Human Resource Development Subsidy (training)
For training efforts such as vocational training and OJT. Part of Japanese-language or skills training may qualify. Prior submission of a training plan is generally required.
3. Employment retention / workplace improvement
For improving retention and the working environment. Employers who invest in settling-in support and systems may qualify — worth considering alongside foreign-worker retention measures.
4. Trial employment / targeted job-seeker subsidies
These have limited eligible persons and conditions. They do not automatically apply to hiring foreign workers; check case by case whether the eligibility (worker attributes, referral route) is met.
5. Local-government subsidies
Prefectures and municipalities sometimes offer their own support for receiving foreign workers, housing or Japanese-language study. Regional variation is large — check the relevant local government's employment / foreign-worker desk.
Application flow and caveats
Many subsidies require prior plan submission and approval, and cannot be claimed retroactively after hiring. Interpretation of requirements is detailed, so consulting a labor and social security attorney (sharoshi) is safer. Applications that differ from the facts constitute fraudulent receipt, subject to repayment and penalties.
→ See the full cost pictureConsider it together with costs
Subsidies are only partial support. Grasp the overall framework and costs first, then check what subsidies might apply. Watari sends workers primarily from Cambodia and offers free consultations on cost and route selection.
→ Free consultation for employersFAQ
- Is there a subsidy specifically for hiring foreign workers?
- Generally no. General employment, training and retention schemes may apply if conditions are met.
- Can we use subsidies when hiring Specified Skilled Workers?
- Not for the hiring itself, but efforts that meet specific conditions (regularization, training, retention) may qualify. Confirm current requirements with the authorities.
- Can we apply after hiring?
- Many require prior plan submission and approval and cannot be claimed afterward. Check before hiring.
- Where should we consult?
- Prefectural Labour Bureaus, Hello Work, a labor and social security attorney, or the local government desk where you will hire.
This page is general reference information and does not guarantee receipt of any specific subsidy. Requirements, amounts and availability change by year and region. Confirm the latest and accurate information with MHLW, prefectural Labour Bureaus, local governments, or a qualified professional.