- Japan raises the permanent residency requirement to five years for most foreign workers
- Officials from the Immigration Services Agency emphasised that core residency requirements remain unchanged
- Japan is also considering introducing a Japanese language proficiency requirement for permanent residency applicants
The government of Japan has introduced stricter rules for foreign workers seeking permanent residency.
Applicants must now hold a five-year visa before applying for permanent residency, replacing the previous three-year requirement.
According to reports citing officials from the Immigration Services Agency of Japan, the new policy is already in effect. Under the previous system, holders of three-year visas were eligible to apply for permanent residency, but that pathway has now been closed.
First-time applicants will now be granted visas lasting up to two years. A three-year visa option remains available only in limited transitional cases for those who already hold such status and receive a decision by March 31, 2027. However, this option can only be used once.
Officials stressed that Japan’s core residency requirement remains unchanged. They stated:
“Japan’s fundamental requirement for residence will not change, visa time change.”
The longstanding rule still requires applicants to have lived in Japan for at least ten consecutive years, with at least five of those years under work-related or personal residence status such as employment or a spouse visa.
Eligibility conditions remain the same, with authorities assessing applicants on good conduct, financial independence, and whether their continued presence benefits Japan.
However, immigration officials are increasing scrutiny of compliance records, particularly tax payments and social contributions.
Applicants must also have no history of criminal penalties or imprisonment. Immigration authorities will review records related to income tax, pension contributions, and national health insurance payments.
The tightened rules follow a major labour policy shift in 2024 when Japan expanded foreign worker intake to address chronic workforce shortages.
Authorities announced plans to allow around 820,000 foreign workers into transport and logistics sectors over five years through the skilled worker visa programme.
This move more than doubled the government’s previous estimate and reflected concerns over shortages of truck, bus, and delivery drivers that were disrupting supply chains and essential services.
Under the new residency framework, timely payment of obligations has become critical. Officials have indicated that delayed payments, even if later resolved, may be interpreted as non-compliance.
There are exceptions. Applicants under Japan’s Highly Skilled Professional visa programme continue to benefit from accelerated permanent residency pathways.
Those scoring at least 70 points under the government’s points-based system can apply after three years of residence, while individuals with 80 points or more are eligible after just one year.
This category typically grants a five-year visa, which now aligns more closely with the updated permanent residency rules.
Recognised refugees and individuals fleeing conflict remain eligible to apply for permanent residency after five years of residence following official recognition. These provisions remain unchanged.
Looking ahead, Japan is also considering adding a Japanese language proficiency requirement for permanent residency applications. Though still under discussion, the proposal could be included in further reforms expected around April 2027.