Japan tightens rules for foreigners wanting permanent residency

Japan's new, stricter residency rules and higher visa fees took effect on October 1, moves the government says are meant to foster coexistence with foreigners who respect the rules, despite worries they could signal exclusionism. Two-thirds of the requirements for permanent residency were tightened. Justice Minister Takashi Yamashita, who oversees the Immigration Services Agency, stated at a September 29 news conference that the public is uneasy about some foreigners' acts that conflict with laws and rules.

He emphasized that the tightening of residency permits and higher fees are part of the government's plan to create a society where Japanese and foreigners prosper together. The Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act sets three requirements for permanent residency: good behavior, sufficient assets or skills for independent living, and the applicant's presence being in Japan's national interest.

From October 1, applicants must earn more than the average Japanese household's annual income, currently about 4.5 million yen ($28,400) for single working households. Starting April 2027, the pension requirement will be equivalent to what a person earning the average Japanese household income would receive after 30 years in the employees' pension system.

The national interest requirement will now explicitly state that applicants must actively and concretely benefit Japan. Starting April 2027, the government will be allowed to revoke permanent residency if someone fails to pay taxes or is convicted of certain crimes. The revision of guidelines received 5,180 public comments, some calling it "exclusion of foreigners."

The government argues the changes are necessary to ensure the permanent residency system is appropriate and not aimed at reducing the number of permits granted. The agency also cites curbing the number of foreigners receiving public assistance as a reason for stricter policies, noting that 1.96% of permanent residents receive such assistance, similar to the 1.62% figure for Japan overall.