Japan shares deportation data with local governments

Japan's Immigration Services Agency has begun sharing personal information regarding foreign nationals undergoing deportation proceedings with local governments. This policy shift, part of a broader review pursued by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, aims to improve cooperation between central and local authorities.

Previously, such data was only shared with the consent of the individuals involved. This often left local governments unable to track the whereabouts of foreign nationals, creating difficulties in providing essential public services like healthcare and education. Under current immigration laws, individuals facing deportation for overstaying visas or committing crimes may remain in the country during investigations, some via provisional release or supervisory systems.

In July, the agency provided local governments with details including names, addresses, nationalities, and dates of birth for those subject to proceedings living outside immigration facilities. Moving forward, the agency intends to provide monthly updates on relocations or returns to home countries and will make information available upon request. In 2025, 18,442 foreign nationals were subject to deportation procedures.