Japan set to introduce new laws on permanent residency application

Permanent resident

The Government of Japan under the stewardship of the historic first female Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is considering introducing new requirements for foreigners who will apply for the permanent residents visa status.

The administration, led by the 64-year-old, has firmly fixed its sights on tightening immigration policies of the East Asian country while tacking numerous challenges encountering the country.

According to local sources, the administration is considering introducing a Japanese language proficiency test for applicants.

Additionally, the administration is also targeting introducing mandatory requirements bothering on financial clearance.

Inside sources claim that applicants who have outstanding medical bills, social security and tax contributions shall not be granted the visa.

Statistically, only about 60 percent of permanent residents applicants emerge are able to secure their visas.

Japan’s Permanent Residency (PR) visa allows indefinite stay without renewal, requiring a 10-year continuous stay (with exceptions), good conduct (no major crimes/fines), financial independence (stable income/assets), fulfilling public duties (taxes/pensions), and having the longest possible current visa period, with reduced requirements for spouses/children of Japanese nationals or PRs, and expedited options for highly skilled professionals.

The government has targeted 2027 to roll out the new proposals who are currently undergoing several reviews.