Japan is for the first time considering allowing nurses and carers from the Philippines and Thailand to work in the country, in what would be a significant shift in its notoriously stringent immigration policy.
Government officials are trying to reach consensus on details, such as whether foreign caregivers should have to pass Japanese examinations.
...observers say Japan's demographics make the entry of foreign workers essential. The ministry of foreign affairs estimates there are fewer than five qualified caregivers for every 100 people who need care or assistance in Japan.
...Most Philippine nationals living in Japan have so-called "entertainer" visas. Amahs, or Filipina domestic helpers, are permitted entry only when accompanying high-ranking foreigners, such as diplomats, company executives or military officials. Japanese nationals and ordinary foreign workers are not permitted to hire amahs.
Not quite sure why the FT throws in a non sequitor about domestic help in the final paragraph. Perhaps the journalist can't find any cheap labour to clean her flat.
Or are they suggesting that the new visa could end up with "entertainer" status.
