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Introduction For foreign nationals who are working, running a business, or planning to settle long-term in Japan, the period from 2025 to 2026 marks an important turning point in Japan’s immigration system. Some requirements are being tightened, while others are becoming more flexible or more digital. If you rely on outdated information, you may find that your application does not proceed as expected. This article summarises four key developments based on officially announced

*This article is based on news reports as of November 2025. Immigration laws and requirements may change in the future.* Japan's Proposed Change to Naturalisation Requirements The Japanese government is currently reviewing its immigration policy, with particular attention on the naturalisation process (acquiring Japanese citizenship). The current Prime Minister has instructed relevant ministers to compile a basic policy by January 2026, signalling a potential shift in the c

For foreign nationals who have been living in Japan for a long time, obtaining permanent residency in Shiga Prefecture is an important step towards securing stability in life, work, and family. However, many are unsure about which documents are required, whether they meet the necessary criteria, and what specific points to watch out for in the Shiga review process. This article aims to clearly explain the required documents and share real-life cases from Shiga Prefecture, fro

Introduction The “Business Manager” visa in Japan, officially classified as the “Management/Administration” (経営・管理) status of residence, allows foreign nationals to start and operate a business in Japan. As of October 2025, significant regulatory changes have taken effect, imposing much stricter eligibility requirements for both new applications and renewals. These changes were introduced to ensure that only individuals with genuine business capabilities and operational plans

Introduction: Background of the theme and the reader’s concerns (including cases in Shiga & Kyoto) In today’s globalised business environment, many foreign entrepreneurs set up or manage companies in Japan under the “Business Manager” visa. For those based in the Shiga and Kyoto region, this means more than just fulfilling national immigration requirements — it also involves a local awareness of business operations, regional economic conditions, and administrative practices.

Introduction: Background on the 2025 Business Manager Visa Renewal Changes and Challenges for Entrepreneurs in Kyoto and Shiga As the Japanese government rolls out significant reforms to the Business Manager Visa renewal process in 2025, entrepreneurs in Kyoto and Shiga are faced with stricter compliance standards. These updates are designed to enhance national security, ensure genuine business activities, and reduce abuse of the visa system. The revised requirements impose m

More and more long-term foreign residents in Japan are expressing a desire to become Japanese nationals. In places like Shiga Prefecture and Kyoto City, where many foreign residents have become part of the local community, interest in naturalisation is particularly high. This article explains the process of applying for Japanese nationality in Shiga and Kyoto, highlighting key requirements and common pitfalls. Basic Steps to Naturalisation in Shiga and Kyoto What Are the Lega

Obtaining permanent residency (PR) is a major milestone for many foreign nationals living in Japan long-term. With PR status, you are no longer required to renew your visa and are free from employment restrictions. It also opens up more opportunities—for example, applying for home loans, accessing educational support schemes, and providing greater stability for your family. In regions like Shiga Prefecture and Kyoto City, where the number of foreign residents continues to gro