Japan raises the bar on residency. Cue the outrage.
Critics, and some residents, are up in arms at the suggested changes.
Japan is tightening its residency rules under Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's leadership. The country is increasing the bar for permanent residency, imposing higher renewal fees for visas and enforcing stricter penalties on overstayers. Proposed changes include a minimum salary requirement and a greater emphasis on proficiency in the Japanese language.
Critics, including some residents, are vehemently opposing the suggested modifications, with the Asahi Daily deeming them a revision that will "doom the dreams and enthusiasm of foreigners." Some draw comparisons to the U.S. under the Trump administration, describing Japan's actions as an anti-immigration crackdown. The Mainichi newspaper expressed concern, stating, "Japan should not shut the door on permanent residents."
Written by urgent.news from Japan Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
