Ibaraki Prefecture will introduce a reward program beginning May 11, aimed at tackling illegal employment of foreign nationals. This initiative follows a series of reports indicating that Ibaraki has consistently ranked highest among Japan's prefectures for illegal foreign workers, with 3,518 reported cases in 2025 alone.

Governor Kazuhiko Oigawa emphasized that the program seeks to penalize business operators and brokers rather than the workers themselves. Residents providing substantial information about employers hiring undocumented workers can receive a reward of 10,000 yen ($63), which will be paid once the information leads to actionable police investigations.

To prevent misuse, the prefecture will not accept tips based solely on appearance or nationality, nor those related to unrelated lifestyle matters. Individuals reporting tips must provide their name, address, contact information, and a photo ID, creating a system where anonymous complaints are not tolerated.

This initiative has been met with mixed responses. While it is designed to protect the rights of lawful workers, critics have raised concerns about potential discrimination and human rights violations stemming from the program. By April 7, 2026, the prefecture had received 456 comments, including strong objections about the potential for exclusionism.

Despite these criticisms, the governor maintains that the reward program is not anti-foreign but is instead aimed at ensuring a fair employment landscape for foreign workers. Prior to the launch, prefectural officials will finalize guidelines to ensure the system operates fairly and effectively.

Ibaraki's dire statistics concerning illegal employment have prompted such measures, as Governor Oigawa indicated that the situation undermines public safety and well-being in local communities.

This program positions Ibaraki as the first prefecture in Japan to independently implement a cash-for-tips system, following national efforts led by the Immigration Services Agency.