Japan adopts new visa system for foreign workers
(VOVWORLD) - A labor reform law, which took effect on Monday, sets a legal cap on overtime work hours in an attempt to change Japan’s culture of overwork, which has been blamed for causing severe stress, illness, and multiple deaths.
The law limits overtime work to 45 hours per month and 360 hours per year. The monthly cap can be extended in busy months up to six times a year.
Companies that violate these rules are subject to a maximum fine of 2,700 USD. The new law comes at a time when Japan is experiencing a severe shortage of workers due to an aging population and a declining birth rate.