Mass Migration

Saitama Governor Calls for Suspension of Japan-Turkey Visa Waiver

Saitama Prefecture's Governor, Motohiro Ono, addressed Diet members from the prefecture during a meeting held in Tokyo on July 28. The primary focus of the meeting was to present the prefecture's policy requests to the national legislature.

Governor Ono specifically requested a temporary suspension of the mutual visa waiver agreement between Japan and Turkey. This request stemmed from growing concerns among local residents regarding criminal activities allegedly committed by Turkish nationals residing in the area.

The visa waiver agreement currently permits citizens of both Turkey and Japan to undertake short-term visits for tourism and other purposes without the need for a visa. However, the governor highlighted a specific issue related to this agreement.

Ono explained that some foreign nationals are entering Japan under the visa waiver program and subsequently attempting to extend their stay by repeatedly applying for refugee status, often without legitimate grounds for recognition. He cited instances where these individuals have been linked to criminal activities, causing unease within the community.

The prefecture urged the Diet members to carefully evaluate the current situation and consider a temporary suspension of the visa waiver agreement if deemed necessary. Saitama Prefecture is home to significant Kurdish communities with Turkish nationality, particularly in and around the cities of Kawaguchi and Warabi, many of whom are seeking refugee status.

The prefectural government reported that a substantial percentage of Turkish nationals residing in Japan, specifically 31.1 percent, live within Saitama Prefecture. Furthermore, in 2024, Turkish citizens constituted the largest group, by nationality, of repeat applicants for refugee status, individuals whose refugee status was denied, and those provisionally released from immigration detention.

Following the meeting, Governor Ono reiterated that the repeated applications for refugee status by some Turkish nationals, and the resulting public concern from those unable to accept the situation, were key factors driving the prefecture's request.

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5 Comments

Avatar of Comandante

Comandante

This isn't a way to solve problems — it’s creating new ones. Let's find solutions that unite, not divide.

Avatar of Muchacha

Muchacha

It’s important to address genuine concerns from residents. We can’t ignore the impact on local crime rates.

Avatar of Mariposa

Mariposa

This request could violate human rights principles. Is Japan really willing to act against international norms?

Avatar of Matzomaster

Matzomaster

The issue isn't with the visa waiver itself, but with local integration and support for foreign residents.

Avatar of Leonardo

Leonardo

It’s important to address genuine concerns from residents. We can’t ignore the impact on local crime rates.

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