Japan Immigration News

Blameless but facing deportation: Japan immigration law's inexplicable provision

Release Date: 2025-07-24
Media: The Mainichi
Summary: A foreign woman living in Japan was nearly deported after being accused of unknowingly helping a Vietnamese man work illegally. Although prosecutors dropped criminal charges against her in 2021 due to lack of intent or negligence, immigration authorities continued their own investigation.

In 2023, immigration officials told her she was subject to deportation under a 2009 amendment to the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act. This law allows deportation for "promoting illegal work" even without intent or negligence—unlike criminal charges, which require proof of either.

The woman had used an official app to verify the man's residency card and followed proper procedures, but the man had used someone else’s card. Despite her diligence and the lack of criminal charges, immigration ruled she had abetted illegal work and issued a deportation order.

In April 2024, she sued the government, arguing the interpretation of the law was unfair and dangerous, as it allows deportation even for innocent mistakes. However, the Tokyo District Court sided with the government in March 2025, and an appeal ruling is expected on July 24.

Legal experts like Kobe University’s Professor Yukio Okitsu argue that deportation without negligence is excessive and potentially harmful, especially as Japan expands foreign labor. The woman’s lawyer says the case highlights flaws in Japan’s immigration system and calls for reform.
Tags: Immigration Law,Illegal Stay,Illegal Work

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