In recent years, the number of foreign residents in Japan has rapidly increased, reaching a record high of 3.58 million in 2023. Foreign workers, international students, technical intern trainees, and other foreigners with diverse backgrounds live and work in Japan, and many of them are unfamiliar with Japanese laws and social systems. As a result, the number of cases in which foreigners become victims of crime is increasing. (Sankei Shimbun, February 5, 2025) In addition, there are cases in which foreigners themselves are involved in crimes.
In such situations, Gyoseishoshi can play an important role in preventing foreigners from becoming involved in crimes. Gyoseishoshis are experts who have specialized knowledge regarding the lifestyle, work, and residence status of foreigners and support legal procedures. Therefore, it can be said that Gyoseishoshis have a very important role to play in creating an environment where foreigners can live safely in Japan.
1.Background of foreigners becoming involved in crimes
First of all, there are several factors behind why foreigners become involved in crimes. The following points are particularly important:
(1) Language barrier
Many foreigners lack Japanese language skills and may not be able to fully understand information about daily life, work, or the law. This makes them more susceptible to fraud and fraud. For example, we have seen cases where people are involved in fraud because they are unable to accurately understand important contracts and transaction details because their Japanese is insufficient.
(2) Unaccustomed to culture and laws
Foreigners who are unfamiliar with Japanese laws and social customs may unknowingly become involved in illegal activities. For example, a lack of knowledge about rights under the Labor Standards Act, working conditions, and taxation can lead to fraudulent contracts and exploitation. This can also lead to criminal activity if foreign nationals work illegally or have visa issues.
(3) Economic hardship
In particular, foreign workers and international students who work for low wages may participate in crimes for economic reasons, or may be tricked by criminals into engaging in illegal activities. They are often lured into underground part-time jobs or illegal labor, and falling into such situations is extremely dangerous.
2.The role of an Gyoseishoshi and what they can do
To prevent foreigners from becoming involved in crimes, Gyoseishoshi can provide support in the following ways:
(1) Education regarding Japanese laws and systems
Gyoseishoshis can explain Japanese laws and systems to foreigners and help them deepen their understanding. For example, it is important to help foreigners understand their rights regarding labor contracts and wages. In addition, by providing knowledge about Japan’s labor standards law, taxation, and social insurance, we can ensure that foreigners are not treated unfairly.
In particular, foreign workers and technical intern trainees often do not fully understand the content of labor contracts and working conditions, and may find themselves in illegal working environments. Gyoseishoshis are required to accurately understand contracts and documents that foreigners need to protect their rights, and provide appropriate advice before signing.
It is also effective to hold seminars and workshops to help foreigners understand Japanese laws and administrative procedures. These activities help foreigners know their rights and reduce the risk of being drawn into illegal contracts and transactions.
(2) Management of foreigners’ residence status and support for due process
In order for foreigners to legally live and work in Japan, it is essential that they have the appropriate status of residence. Gyoseishoshis provide support for foreigners to obtain the necessary status of residence and complete the appropriate procedures. We will advise you on procedures for renewing or changing your residence status and support you in following the correct procedures to avoid problems related to incorrect residence status or illegal employment.
Gyoseishoshis can also help foreigners prepare and submit the documents necessary to change or renew their visas to prevent them from getting into trouble with their visas. Visa laws are complex, and if a foreigner completes the procedure based on incorrect information, problems may arise later. By providing appropriate support from an Gyoseishoshi, you can reduce the risk of foreigners engaging in illegal employment or fraudulent use of visas.
(3) Warning and prevention of fraud and misconduct against foreigners
Gyoseishoshis can provide warnings and take preventive measures to prevent foreigners from becoming involved in fraud and fraudulent activities. It is important to alert foreigners to be wary of fraudulent techniques and fraudulent activities. For example, in collaboration with public institutions such as the Metropolitan Police Department, we can provide information on fraud prevention to foreigners. It is also effective to teach foreigners in advance what to do if they are involved in a scam.
Furthermore, Gyoseishoshis can alert foreigners to companies that provide fraudulent contracts or work. We advise foreign workers to sign contracts with reliable companies to prevent them from becoming involved in illegal labor practices. This reduces the risk of foreign nationals engaging in illegal labor and ensures a healthy working environment.
(4) Establishment and support of consultation desks for foreigners
Gyoseishoshis can set up a consultation desk and provide support for problems faced by foreigners. By creating an environment where foreigners can consult with Gyoseishoshis when they encounter legal or social issues, they can reduce the risk of being involved in a crime.
Additionally, in the event that a foreigner is involved in a crime, it is important to provide support in cooperation with the police, lawyers, welfare organizations, etc. in order to take appropriate measures. When a foreigner becomes a victim of a crime, an Gyoseishoshi can advise them on what procedures to follow and encourage early response to prevent the damage from spreading.
3.Summary
Gyoseishoshis can provide a wide range of support to prevent foreigners from becoming involved in crimes. By educating foreigners about Japanese laws and systems, and supporting appropriate immigration status management and procedures, we can reduce the risk of foreigners becoming involved in crimes. It is also important to encourage people to be wary of fraud, and advise them to enter into reliable contracts and work. Gyoseishoshis can play an important role in supporting foreigners to live and work safely in Japan.