Introduction
As modern globalization progresses, immigration policy has become an important element in each country’s socio-economic development and international relations. Developed countries form their immigration policies based on different historical backgrounds, economic situations, and social values, and their characteristics are diverse. This paper provides an overview of the characteristics of immigration policies in developed countries in Europe, North America, Oceania, and Asia.
1.European immigration policy
1.1 Labor demand and immigration policy
Many European countries are increasingly accepting immigrants to fill labor shortages in response to aging societies. For example, Germany has introduced a “blue card system” aimed at accepting skilled workers, giving preferential treatment to highly skilled immigrants. On the other hand, policies for low-skilled workers are relatively restrictive, and their acceptance is often limited to temporary labor contracts.
1.2 Refugee policy and cultural diversity
After the Syrian refugee crisis in 2015, many European countries faced debate over whether to accept refugees. While Germany accepted large numbers of refugees, countries such as Hungary and Poland took a tougher stance, highlighting policy divisions within Europe as well. In France, while the assimilation policy of immigrants is progressing, social divisions and xenophobia are also on the rise.
1.3 Strengthening immigration restrictions and border controls
The Schengen Agreement allows free movement between some European countries, but tightens controls on external borders. Countries such as Italy and Greece are at the forefront of efforts to prevent illegal immigration, particularly through the Mediterranean. As a result, immigration policy has become an issue that tests cooperation across Europe.
2.North American immigration policy
2.1 United States
Although the United States has a tradition as a nation of immigrants, immigration restrictions have been tightened in recent years. In particular, under the Trump administration, a wall was built on the southern border and crackdowns on illegal immigration were strengthened. However, there are still many opportunities available to highly skilled immigrants and international students, including through H-1B visas. Immigration policy is also having a major impact on domestic politics in the United States, with debates surrounding the Dreamer (DACA program) and the issue of family separation of illegal immigrants becoming a hot topic of political discussion.
2.2 Canada
Canada, in contrast to the United States, actively promotes immigration. In particular, the policy of introducing a points system to evaluate economic immigrants is considered a successful example of improving the quality of immigrants. In addition, multiculturalism is the foundation of its policies, and an attitude of respecting cultural diversity is strongly rooted in society. This kind of open policy has received high praise internationally.
3.Oceania’s immigration policy
3.1 Australia
In its immigration policy, Australia selectively accepts economic immigrants. Through skill immigration point tests and region-specific immigration programs, they aim to disperse the population to rural areas and secure labor in specific fields. On the other hand, the country has strict policies against illegal immigrants and refugees, and its overseas immigration screening and offshore detention policies have attracted criticism.
3.2 New Zealand
Like Australia, New Zealand uses a skilled immigration points system, but as a smaller society, the impact of immigration is more likely to be reflected directly in specific regions and societies. In recent years, seasonal worker acceptance programs have been attracting attention to fill the shortage of agricultural workers.
4.Immigration policies in developed Asian countries
4.1 Japan
Japan has long been considered a reluctant country to accept immigrants, but in recent years there has been a gradual shift in policy due to labor shortages. With the introduction of the specific skill visa system, they are expanding the acceptance of foreign workers in fields such as nursing care, construction, and agriculture. However, restrictions on long-term settlement and family attachment remain severe, and countries remain cautious about accepting immigrants as permanent members of society.
4.2 South Korea
In South Korea, the acceptance of immigrant workers is increasing as the population ages and the birthrate declines. Foreign workers play an important role, especially in rural areas and in sectors such as construction. They also provide support to marriage immigrants and their families through our multicultural family support policy. However, like Japan, there is a tendency to emphasize cultural and social assimilation.
5.Common issues and future prospects
5.1 Social integration
A common challenge for developed countries is how to integrate immigrants into society. Policies are needed to minimize friction between immigrants and host populations while respecting cultural diversity.
5.2 Illegal immigration and humanitarian response
Dealing with illegal immigrants and refugees is attracting attention as an international human rights issue. On the other hand, there is a deep-rooted movement to tighten immigration restrictions for reasons of national security and economic burden, and a balanced policy is needed.
5.3 International coordination of immigration policy
Immigration issues are difficult to solve by one country alone, and international cooperation is essential. In particular, cooperation within the framework of the European Union and the United Nations will continue to be important.
Conclusion
Immigration policies in developed countries take a variety of forms based on each country’s historical background, economic needs, and social values. However, as we face common challenges such as labor shortages and refugee issues, policy coordination and cooperation between countries is important. Immigration policy is not just a domestic issue, but an issue that should contribute to the stability and development of the international community as a whole.
Postscript
On the homepage of “Nishiyama Immigration Service“, you can see news related to immigration and refugees from around the world.