The Japanese government is considering employing retired Self-Defense Force members as immigration security officers to strengthen crackdowns on illegal stayers [1].

This move reflects the government's effort to address severe staff shortages in immigration enforcement. As the number of foreign residents in Japan continues to climb, authorities are struggling to manage deportations and prevent unexpected incidents during the process [1, 2].

A cabinet decision regarding the new recruitment strategy is expected on July 28, 2026 [1]. The plan involves a significant increase in personnel, with the government seeking to add more than 200 immigration officers and examiners [1]. Specifically, the government intends to increase the number of examiners by approximately 180 [1].

Regional deployments are already being planned to target specific areas of concern. About 50 new immigration officers are expected to be deployed in Ibaraki Prefecture [1, 2]. This localized surge in manpower is part of a broader strategy to curb the growth of undocumented populations within the country.

The push for increased enforcement comes as Japan manages a growing international population. Foreign residents in Japan exceeded 4 million at the end of 2026 [1]. The government said the integration of retired military personnel will provide the necessary expertise and security presence to handle high-risk enforcement actions.

By utilizing veterans, the government aims to mitigate the risks associated with the removal of illegal stayers. The specialized training of former Self-Defense Force members is seen as a solution to the operational gaps that have hindered previous deportation efforts [1, 2].

“Foreign residents in Japan exceeded 4 million at the end of 2026”

The decision to militarize immigration security by hiring veterans signals a shift toward a more rigorous enforcement posture. By addressing a critical staffing deficit with trained security personnel, Japan is prioritizing the physical security and efficiency of its deportation process to manage the societal pressures of a foreign population that has surpassed 4 million.