News Ibaraki Prefecture to hire foreign nationals for clerical positions

Ibaraki Prefecture has removed nationality as a requirement for applicants seeking clerical positions within the prefectural government starting in 2026. This policy change will encompass various administrative roles, including positions in the governor's office.

Officials emphasised the importance of allowing non-Japanese nationals to contribute actively to the prefectural government. The removal of the nationality requirement will apply to clerical positions for university and high school graduates, commencing with the recruitment examination for which applications will be accepted from March 2025.

Hired non-Japanese nationals are expected to leverage their language skills, cultural understanding, and experience living in Japan. Their roles will include supporting foreign residents, securing foreign human resources, and attracting international visitors to the prefecture, all tasks that primarily fall within the purview of clerical staff.

Non-Japanese will not be allowed to work in positions that involve "exercising public authority" or "participating in the formation of public will" that affect the rights and obligations of prefectural residents. Examples include on-site inspections and crackdowns on waste disposal facilities, construction permits and licenses, tax notices, and tax payment decisions. In addition, foreign nationals will not be allowed to hold managerial positions at or above the level of section chief with decision-making authority or to serve as the head of a subordinate organization. Officials noted that the nationality requirement has already been removed for some positions, such as doctors, nurses and public health nurses. Eleven other prefectures have hired clerical and technical staff without regard to nationality, the officials added.

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