Immigration & Visas
Latest news and updates on immigration & visas for expats in Japan
Japan to Launch Language Programs for Foreign Residents Amid Labor Needs
A government advisory panel recommends creating Japanese language and cultural learning programs for foreign residents before and after arrival, addre...
Japan Advances Language Support and Credit Access for Foreign Residents
Japan's government is developing new Japanese language programs for foreign residents, while fintech company Dwilar raised 150 million yen to expand A...
New Support App for Foreign Workers Amid Property Regulation Debates
A new app provides enhanced support for foreign workers on Specified Skilled Worker visas, while Japanese lawmakers debate property ownership restrict...
Foreign Residents Surge in 96% of Japanese Municipalities, Driving Policy Shifts
Foreign residents increased in 96% of Japanese municipalities over the past decade, with half seeing populations double. Government plans to accept 1....
Japan Pushes Digital Border Tech as Foreign Arrivals Hit Record High
Japan's Justice Minister received recommendations to rapidly digitalize immigration systems as 2024 foreign arrivals hit record levels. Changes aim to...
Japan's Ruling Party Drafts Comprehensive Foreign Resident Policy Reforms
Japan's ruling LDP is developing comprehensive immigration reforms through three working teams, with final recommendations due January 2025. Separatel...
Japan Plans Immigration Fee Hikes and Tighter Nationality Rules
Japan will raise residence permit fees in fiscal 2025 and tighten nationality requirements. The government also plans to track foreign nationals' prop...
Japan Tightens Immigration Rules Over Unpaid Medical Bills
Japan is lowering the threshold for reporting unpaid medical bills to immigration authorities, potentially affecting future entry for foreign visitors...
Japan Intensifies Crackdown on Illegal Employment of Foreign Workers
Japanese authorities arrested employers for illegally using foreign workers, including Indian nationals with Highly Skilled Professional visas forced ...
Thai Minor Exploitation Case Highlights Child Protection Concerns in Japan
A 12-year-old Thai girl was allegedly forced into sexual services in Tokyo, prompting Thai-Japanese police cooperation. The case raises concerns about...
Japan Reviews Foreign Worker Framework Amid Political Debate
Japan's government announced a comprehensive review of foreign worker acceptance policies following November parliamentary debates. Prime Minister Tak...
China Extends Visa-Free Entry for Japanese Nationals Through 2026
China extends visa-free entry for Japanese nationals through December 2026, allowing 30-day stays without visas. The policy aims to boost tourism and ...
Japan Launches New Immigration Framework Amid Land Ownership Concerns
Japan's government will convene its first ministerial meeting on foreign resident policy on November 4, addressing immigration and land ownership by n...