Japan's Immigration Services Agency published a survey status list as of June 2026 regarding Japanese language institutions capable of providing language training for the Nurturing Employment (Ikusei Shuro) system. The new Nurturing Employment system officially begins on April 1, 2027, establishing statutory standards for language proficiency among incoming foreign workers. Before starting work in Japan, individuals must achieve an A1-equivalent Japanese proficiency standard, followed by reaching an A2-equivalent level over a three-year period. This guide outlines the institutional classifications, transitional instructor requirements, and key steps for preparing your move.
What is the June 2026 Japanese language training list published by Japan's Immigration Services Agency?
The Immigration Services Agency of Japan (ISA) compiled and released a comprehensive survey list as of June 2026. This publication serves as official reference material for accepting companies (Nurturing Employment implementers) and supervising support organizations seeking to arrange language courses for foreign workers coming to Japan. By reviewing this list, organizations can identify qualified Japanese language institutions and ensure smooth arrangements for educational programs required under the new framework. You can read the official announcement on the Immigration Services Agency of Japan website.
The list covers different types of institutions based on survey responses regarding whether they offer suitable training programs. Because proper language training is an integral part of the incoming system, accessing verified educational providers helps foreign nationals and their sponsoring organizations plan necessary preparations before employment starts in Japan.
What language requirements apply to foreign workers under the Nurturing Employment system in Japan?
Under the Nurturing Employment framework scheduled to start on April 1, 2027, foreign workers must meet specific language proficiency benchmarks linked to the Framework of Reference for Japanese-Language Education. The system establishes two major educational milestones:
- Before starting employment: Workers must pass an exam equivalent to level A1 of the Framework of Reference for Japanese-Language Education or complete an equivalent A1 training course.
- During the three-year training period: Workers are required to take Japanese language training aimed at reaching an A2-equivalent level by the conclusion of their three-year Nurturing Employment period.
Accepting employers in Japan hold explicit legal obligations under the Nurturing Employment Act regarding these requirements. Sponsoring companies are mandated to take necessary measures, including covering full financial costs, to ensure that foreign workers receive the required A1 and A2 Japanese language training courses.
How do language school classifications differ under Japanese regulations?
Japanese law distinguishes between distinct regulatory categories of Japanese language institutions. Understanding these classifications helps students and foreign workers recognize the legal background of their training programs:
- Accredited Japanese Language Educational Institutions: These institutions are certified by the Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) in accordance with the Act on Accreditation of Japanese Language Educational Institutions for the Proper and Certain Implementation of Japanese Language Education. Accredited institutions may offer specialized curriculum tracks, including a Course for Study Abroad, a Course for Work, and a Course for Living. It is important to note that not all accredited institutions maintain a Course for Work.
- Notification Japanese Language Educational Institutions: These institutions are designated by the Minister of Justice via official public notices, based on criteria governing the Student status of residence under the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act.
The ISA survey includes results for both accredited institutions—specifically highlighting those offering Courses for Work—and notification institutions across Japan.
What temporary rules apply to language instructors and class sizes in Japan?
To support a smooth implementation, the Nurturing Employment framework incorporates a transitional measure lasting tentatively for five years from the date the law takes effect. During this transitional period, training programs do not strictly need to be designated as an official Course for Work at an accredited Japanese language educational institution.
Instead, non-accredited Japanese language educational institutions may also deliver language training to foreign workers, provided specific structural criteria are satisfied:
- The training must be conducted by a Registered Japanese Language Teacher.
- The class ratio must not exceed twenty students per instructor (at most 20 students per teacher).
This interim allowance enables a broader selection of educational providers to participate while ensuring quality teacher qualifications and restricted class sizes.
How can foreign workers confirm language school details and visa requirements?
Because visa procedures, Certificate of Eligibility (COE) issuing conditions, and institutional status listings depend on official administrative criteria, individual applicants should always confirm specific details directly with official government sources or their sponsoring organizations. Individual legal advice or visa eligibility determinations cannot be provided by external informational guides. Sponsoring employers and supervising organizations consult the official ISA lists to arrange qualified courses before foreign nationals travel to Japan or start their contractual duties.
Finding a place to stay
When preparing to move to Tokyo for language study or employment, timing your housing arrangement is critical. It is best to finalize your accommodation after your Certificate of Eligibility or visa has been officially approved, but well before your flight to Japan. Having your housing secured early ensures a smooth arrival and hassle-free move-in process.
For flexible living upon arrival, OHAYO Stay offers furnished monthly apartments and rooms in Tokyo. Most homes have a minimum stay of 30 nights (shown on each listing). Booking is straightforward with no guarantor, no key money and no agency fee; booking is online with a passport or ID and a credit card. Setting up furnished temporary housing allows you to focus immediately on your language studies and work procedures.
FAQ
When does the Nurturing Employment system take effect in Japan?
The Nurturing Employment system officially begins operation on April 1, 2027.
What language standard must workers meet before starting work in Japan?
Workers must pass a test equivalent to A1 of the Framework of Reference for Japanese-Language Education or complete equivalent A1 training before starting employment.
Who bears the financial cost of Japanese language training for workers?
Accepting employers are legally obligated to take measures, including bearing financial costs, to provide the required Japanese language training.
Sources
- 出入国在留管理庁「日本語教育機関の講習提供状況一覧表（令和８年６月時点）について | 出入国在留管理庁」(checked 2026-10-11)
This article was created by OHAYO Stay based on the sources above (edited, reorganized and translated). It is not an official publication.
Rules and dates can change. Always confirm with the official source before you apply.