Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/I

Japan is introducing stricter requirements for the Engineer/Specialist in Humanities visa, including Japanese language proficiency for certain roles. This guide explains what the changes mean, which jobs are affected, and how foreign professionals can prepare in advance.

Japan’s 2026 immigration law reform may significantly increase fees for visa renewal, status changes and permanent residence applications. This article explains the expected changes and what foreign residents should consider before the new system begins.

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 If you rely on outdated information, you may find that your application does not proceed as expected.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