The Japanese government has announced plans and proposals for major immigration system changes. These reforms could affect a wide range of foreign residents in the coming years. Among the ideas under discussion are significant increases to visa renewal fees, stricter conditions for permanent residency, and the potential for visa renewal checks to include tax, pension, and insurance payment records. There are also proposals to expand revocation grounds and strengthen enforcement as part of the so-called “Zero Illegal Residents Plan.” Some measures are already underway, but others remain drafts or concepts awaiting official guidelines.

This presentation from the public meeting summarises the current proposals, possible policy directions, and early implementation timelines, including:

• How the amended Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act is planned to be rolled out

• The government’s stated aim to increase foreign labour while tightening certain controls

• Potential new requirements and grounds for PR revocation

• A planned schedule stretching into 2026–2027, still subject to change

• Increases in enforcement activity and the possibility of stricter checks in the future

• Political pressures within the ruling party and from nationalist groups

• Other possible measures such as higher visa fees, housing restrictions, and rising anti-foreigner rhetoric

• Ways foreign residents and communities can prepare, organise, and participate in the public comment process once it opens

These points reflect proposed directions and draft plans, not final rules. The government will release detailed guidelines in stages, and public comments will play an important role before anything is fully implemented.

The full presentation is available in the PDF below.

Download the full presentation (PDF): https://generalunion.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Presentation-Residency-Status-at-Risk.pdf