Japan to introduce 'point system' to attract foreign experts+

TOKYO, June 21 Kyodo -
The Japanese government plans to introduce a ''point system'' to give
preferential treatment such as residency permit extensions to foreigners with
advanced expertise, government sources said Sunday.

The government plans to evaluate foreigners by awarding points for their
qualifications, working careers, research achievements and other qualities and
to give preferential treatment when their points exceed a certain level, the
sources said.
The new system will form part of a reform of the residency permit system amid
intensified international competition for engineers and other experts with
advanced expertise.
A Justice Ministry panel will discuss the plan soon to begin mapping out the
new system.
The government is expected to study simplifying procedures for residency
permits and reentry, extending the maximum duration of residency permits from
three years at present and shortening the period of residency required before
securing the right to permanent residency from 10 years in principle.
The ministry will decide on the jobs to be included under the new system in
consultation with the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry and other
ministries and agencies.
A government panel compiled a report last month that included a study on the
introduction of the new system.
Similar point systems have been introduced in Britain and Canada. In Britain,
the system is applied to scientists, entrepreneurs, engineers and teachers, who
can obtain the right of permanent residence in five years if they are
recognized as experts with advanced expertise.
==Kyodo