#Japan #Shibuya #Foreign Workers #Specific Skills #Dining Industry

The Temporary Suspension of Specific Skills Visa in the Dining Industry

The Japanese dining industry faces a challenging period with the announcement of a temporary suspension on the acceptance of the Specific Skills Visa (Type 1) starting April 13, 2026. This visa facilitates the employment of foreigners in the food service sector, which has been critical in addressing labor shortages. A recent survey by Synchro Food, a leading provider of restaurant management services, reveals how this decision resonates within the industry.

Understanding the Specific Skills Visa

The Specific Skills Visa system aims to attract foreign workers to sectors facing significant labor shortages. Instituted following legislation passed in 2018, this program enables Japanese businesses to hire individuals with specific skills who can fill gaps in the workforce. The dining sector, alongside fifteen other industries classified as critical, has utilized this visa to secure foreign talent.

Survey Overview

In light of the suspension and its implications for the dining industry, Synchro Food conducted an online survey among their members, primarily consisting of restaurant owners and operators. The survey, conducted from April 7 to April 9, 2026, received responses from 103 participants.

Key Survey Findings

Very few (11.7%) respondents stated they were well-informed about the upcoming visa suspension, while about 46.6% knew enough to understand its significance, putting the total aware at 58.3%. Although 53.7% of overall respondents believe that the suspension will not impact their establishments, a notable pattern emerges when considering those who currently employ foreign workers.

For restaurant owners who have hired foreign employees, the effects of the visa suspension are more pronounced. Only 22.7% indicated that it would not affect them, while 22.7% acknowledged potential repercussions. Common concerns among these respondents included rising wages for foreign workers and an increasing reliance on foreign employees due to dwindling numbers of local applicants.

Implications for Hiring Japanese Employees

The survey revealed that 29.1% believed that the difficulty of recruiting Japanese staff would increase as a result of the visa suspension. The responses indicated a mix of pessimism and uncertainty: about 41.7% stated recruitment difficulties would likely remain stable, while others were unsure what the long-term consequences would entail.

Some respondents articulated that certain sectors of the labor market may become more competitive, particularly in light of foreign workers being unable to fill positions. Concerns raised included:

• - Increased competition for Japanese applicants: Restaurant owners perceive that with a limited supply of available workers, competition for Japanese staff will intensify, especially with businesses considering re-approaching domestic candidates due to the visa limitations.
• - Wage inflation: As foreign worker compensation rises, it is expected that Japanese wages will also increase, raising operational costs for many establishments.

Support and Opportunities for Restaurants

Despite the obstacles posed by the suspension, the survey did uncover a willingness among some respondents to hire foreign workers under certain conditions. About 34% of eateries expressed interest in actively pursuing candidates with Specific Skills Visa credentials, provided the candidates met the necessary conditions.

In a proactive step, Synchro Food offers trial services for restaurants interested in hiring foreign talent. This service has no upfront costs, allowing businesses to minimize their hiring risks and efficiently source candidates to meet their specific needs.

Conclusion

The forthcoming suspension of the Specific Skills Visa has ignited an important conversation within the Japanese dining industry. While it amplifies challenges regarding the hiring of both foreign and Japanese staff, it also presents an opportunity for restaurants to adapt and rethink their strategies in workforce management. As businesses navigate the shifting landscape, further support and innovative solutions will be essential to ensure sustainability and growth within the sector.

Inquiries regarding the trial hiring service can be directed to [email protected]. For more detailed insights from the survey, please reference Synchro Food’s research on their website.