Relocating to a new country is a complex process, and when it comes to Japan, a country known for its rich culture and traditions, it's essential to stay informed about the latest trends and challenges in the global mobility landscape.

ATMA’s panel shared their thoughts on the current challenges and trends for talent mobility in Japan

• Immigration screening times are getting shorter, with an average processing time of one month.
• Japan is becoming more open to non-traditional immigration applications, including same-sex partners and extended family members.
• Electronic Certificate of Eligibility (CoE) copies are available but may be unreliable; physical copies are recommended.
• Drastic decrease in temporary housing availability for middle-class business travelers during the pandemic.
• Remote work trends are driving demand for larger living spaces among local hires and younger employees.
• International schools in Japan face challenges related to space and competitive admissions processes. Limited availability and high demand necessitate rigorous selection criteria.
• Some schools are relocating to suburbs or consolidating facilities to accommodate more students.
• Japan's ranking as an expensive destination has dropped due to a weakening yen, but prices have risen in absolute terms.
• Protectionism in immigration and tax regulations is on the rise globally, posing challenges for remote workers and payroll compliance.

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