Published: January 2026
In January 2026, the Japanese government released a 98-page policy document outlining a major shift in how Japan manages immigration, foreign residents, and integration into society.
The message is not "Japan is closing its doors." It is saying: rules will be clearer, enforcement will be stricter, and integration will matter more than ever.
Below is a simple breakdown of the 10 most important takeaways.
1. A New Overall Approach: "Orderly Coexistence"
Japan now has record numbers of foreign residents and visitors, and many existing systems were not built for this scale.
The government says:
- Many foreign residents contribute positively
- But abuse, non-payment, and rule-breaking create public anxiety
The new approach combines:
- Stricter enforcement of rules
- Better support for integration
This "carrot and stick" approach runs through the entire policy.
2. Immigration Will Become More Digital and Data-Driven
Immigration authorities will increasingly rely on digital systems and data sharing.
This includes closer coordination between:
- Immigration
- Tax offices
- Health insurance and pension systems
- Local governments
The goal is faster decisions, fewer documents, and earlier detection of abuse.
3. Residence Cards and MyNumber Will Be Merged
Foreign residents will be strongly pushed—eventually required—to have a MyNumber card.
Japan plans to:
- Merge residence cards and MyNumber cards into a single card
- Make this the standard for almost all foreign residents
Employers, schools, and sponsors may be expected to ensure compliance.
4. Visa Screening Will Become Stricter Across the Board
Many visa categories will face more detailed scrutiny, including:
- Business Manager visas: Tougher checks on real business activity and tax compliance
- Engineer / Humanities visas: Inspections of actual job duties
- Student visas: Tighter monitoring of part-time work and income
- Skilled worker visas: Stricter control of numbers and fraud prevention
"Paper" arrangements and role mismatches will be harder to maintain.
5. Permanent Residence (PR) Will No Longer Be "Set and Forget"
Permanent residence is seen as too lenient under current rules.
Changes include:
- Clearer standards for revoking PR
- Serious non-payment of taxes or insurance can trigger action
- Stronger expectations of independence and compliance
PR holders will be treated more like long-term members of society, with real obligations.
6. Naturalization (Citizenship) Will Become Harder
The government notes an inconsistency:
- PR usually requires ~10 years
- Naturalization often only ~5 years
Policy direction suggests:
- Longer residence expectations
- Stricter assessment of integration into Japanese society
- Greater emphasis on stability, language, and compliance
These are policy signals, but they point clearly toward tighter rules.
7. Deportation and Illegal Stay Enforcement Will Increase
Japan is doubling down on its "zero illegal overstayers" policy.
Measures include:
- Faster deportations
- More escorted removals at government expense
- Pressure on countries that refuse to accept deportees
- Faster refugee decisions to prevent system abuse
The aim is quicker resolution, not long-term limbo.
8. Taxes, Insurance, and Welfare Will Be Checked More Closely
Immigration authorities will increasingly check whether foreign residents:
- Pay health insurance
- Pay pension contributions
- Pay local taxes
Welfare systems such as:
- Child benefits
- School assistance
- Public housing
will be reviewed to ensure proper use and eligibility.
9. Japanese Language and Integration Education May Become Mandatory
One of the most significant proposals is mandatory education.
The government is considering requiring:
- Japanese language courses
- Education on laws and social systems
This could apply when:
- Applying for a visa
- Renewing a visa
- Applying for permanent residence
Details are still under discussion, but the direction is clear.
10. Foreign Land and Property Ownership Is Under Review
Public concern exists around:
- National security
- Rising real estate prices
- Lack of transparency
The government plans to:
- Improve tracking of land ownership
- Increase transparency
- Consider new rules for foreign buyers
Final decisions are expected later in 2026.
Final Takeaway
Japan is not shutting out foreign residents.
But it is moving toward:
- Clearer expectations
- Stronger enforcement
- Real integration into society
For foreigners who:
- Follow the rules
- Pay taxes
- Learn the language
- Build stable lives
Japan is explicitly saying: you are welcome.