Foreign residents in Japan should pay close attention to intensifying political debates around immigration policy, as multiple conservative parties have made stricter immigration controls a central campaign issue in the upcoming House of Representatives election. According to NHK, leaders from both the Japan Conservative Party (Nihon Hoshu-tō) and the Sanseito Party have issued strong statements calling for significant restrictions on foreign workers and immigrants. Japan Conservative Party leader Hyakuta addressed supporters in Tokyo's Minato Ward, declaring immigration "the biggest problem" facing Japan today. He warned that allowing immigration to continue unchecked would fundamentally transform Japanese society in ways that "can never be reversed," calling for an immediate halt to current policies. Similarly, Sanseito Party leader Kamiya spoke in Tokyo's Chiyoda Ward, expressing "fierce opposition" to excessive immigration acceptance and demanding numerical limits on foreign entrants. Both parties have positioned immigration restrictions alongside tax reduction policies as their primary campaign platforms. The timing of these statements is significant for Japan's foreign resident community, which has grown substantially in recent years. Japan currently hosts approximately 3.4 million foreign residents, representing a steady increase as the country grapples with labor shortages in key industries including manufacturing, construction, healthcare, and agriculture. The government has gradually expanded visa categories and pathways for foreign workers, including the Specified Skilled Worker visa program introduced in 2019. While these conservative parties represent a minority voice in Japanese politics, their prominence in the election debate signals growing public discourse around immigration policy. The Liberal Democratic Party, which has historically governed Japan, has maintained a more moderate stance, gradually expanding foreign worker programs while emphasizing integration and proper management rather than outright restriction. For expats currently living and working in Japan, these political debates are unlikely to result in immediate policy changes affecting existing visa holders. Japanese immigration law provides stability for those already holding valid residence status, and any major policy shifts would require legislative action through the Diet (parliament). However, the rhetoric does reflect underlying tensions that foreign residents may encounter in their daily lives and could influence future policy directions. Practical implications for expats include potential changes to visa renewal processes, increased scrutiny of foreign worker programs, and possible adjustments to pathways for permanent residency or naturalization. Those planning long-term stays in Japan should monitor election outcomes and subsequent policy proposals carefully. Experts note that Japan faces a demographic paradox: a rapidly aging population and declining birthrate create genuine labor needs, while cultural concerns about immigration persist. The United Nations projects Japan's population will decline from 125 million to potentially under 100 million by 2050 without significant immigration, yet public opinion remains divided on accepting more foreign residents. Foreign residents should understand that while campaign rhetoric can be alarming, Japan's immigration policy changes typically occur gradually and with significant bureaucratic deliberation. The country's legal framework provides protections for existing visa holders, and sudden deportations or visa cancellations for law-abiding residents are extremely rare. Nevertheless, the current political climate underscores the importance of maintaining proper documentation, ensuring visa compliance, and staying informed about policy developments. Foreign residents should ensure their visa status remains current, maintain required documentation, and consider consulting with immigration lawyers if they have concerns about their long-term status. As Japan's election campaign continues, the immigration debate will likely remain prominent. Foreign residents should view this as part of Japan's democratic process while staying informed about concrete policy proposals rather than campaign rhetoric. Organizations supporting foreign residents, including international community centers and legal aid services, can provide guidance as the political landscape evolves.