Japan toughens PR rules for foreigners
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Japan has heightened requirements for foreigners seeking permanent residency (PR), as Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi aims to tighten immigration controls. Under the new rules, which will be implemented gradually, foreign residents must demonstrate an annual income above the average and possess basic conversational skills in Japanese.
Additionally, application fees will skyrocket twentyfold, from 10,000 yen to 200,000 yen. At a central Tokyo immigration office, long lines formed as hundreds of people sought to finalize their procedures before the fee increase. Yujie Chono, a 22-year-old American-born university student, expressed his frustration, stating he had waited for five hours to complete his paperwork.
Despite Japan's dwindling birth rate and aging population, which necessitate accepting foreign residents, opposition to immigration is on the rise. Takaichi acknowledged the growing anxiety among some citizens and emphasized the need for "orderly coexistence" with foreign nationals. The government's efforts to attract international workers have fueled public concern, with false claims circulating on social media about welfare payments and safety issues.
However, experts and business leaders argue that Japan must welcome more foreign workers to ensure its long-term sustainability.
Written by urgent.news from New Straits Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
