[Blog]Part 1: Quantitative Management and Language Criteria — Using Overseas Models as Reference Points

2026-01-12

From “For or Against” to Policy Design

In many countries, immigration policy debates have shifted away from the simple question of whether to accept or restrict migrants. Instead, the focus has moved toward designing systems that ensure social sustainability. Two recurring elements in this shift are quantitative management of migrant populations and the role of language ability in long-term integration.

Emerging Discussion on Quantitative Management in Japan

In Japan, the term “quantitative management” has begun to feature more prominently in discussions on foreign resident policy. According to reporting by Nikkei, policymakers are considering stronger references to managing the number and composition of foreign residents, including permanent residents and technical trainees (Nikkei). Importantly, this concept does not necessarily imply exclusion, but rather aims to improve predictability and manage social costs related to education, healthcare, housing, and local communities.

Canada’s Language-Focused Selection Model

Canada offers a contrasting approach. Through its Express Entry system, the federal government has expanded category-based draws that prioritize French-speaking candidates outside Quebec. As reported by The Toronto Star, this has resulted in cases where francophone applicants with lower overall scores are invited ahead of higher-ranked English-only candidates (The Toronto Star). The stated policy goal is to sustain francophone minority communities and reinforce Canada’s bilingual character.

Why Overseas Examples Should Be Treated as References

Canada’s model does not impose language ability as a strict residency requirement, but rather uses it as a selection priority. While this approach aligns immigration with cultural policy objectives, it has also raised concerns about fairness and economic efficiency. This illustrates why overseas systems should be viewed as reference points rather than ready-made solutions. Each country’s immigration framework is shaped by its unique demographic trends, labour market conditions, and administrative capacity.

Position of This Series and What Comes Next

This series does not argue for or against the introduction of quantitative controls or language criteria in Japan. Instead, it aims to clarify the policy choices involved by examining overseas experiences and highlighting potential challenges and side effects. In Part 2, we will look more closely at how quantitative management is implemented abroad through intake targets, category allocation, and administrative practices, and what lessons these offer for Japan.