Immigration and Records Management in Japan
摘要
This chapter analyzes how immigration records are kept in Japan, examining who maintains them and under what policies. Then, it investigates the rationale behind current record-keeping methods and identifies any associated issues. Finally, it assesses the future of immigrant record management in contemporary Japan. According to the findings, Japan’s immigration records have historically relied on official statistics and policy documents due to the official stance that “there are no immigrants” and a vertically divided administrative structure, resulting in challenges in continuity and permanent preservation. The chapter concludes by emphasizing the importance of immigration policy, a multi-layered approach to records, and promoting greater access to and utilization of these vital documents.