Japan will let Myanmar citizens remain in the country legally even after their visas expire, in response to deteriorating political conditions, Nikkei Asia reported.

The exemption applies to students and technical interns who could face trouble returning home. They can choose to study or work in Japan for another six or 12 months, under plans outlined Wednesday by the Immigration Services Agency to lawmakers.

These Myanmar citizens will be able to apply for another extension if the political situation in their country fails to improve. Japan will also accelerate the screening process for refugees, and allow applicants from Myanmar to stay and work in the country without that status.