Key Changes to Japan’s Immigration Rules in 2025–2026

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 If you rely on outdated information, you may find that your application does not proceed as expected.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 reforms and current administrative trends, with a focus on what foreign applicants should know.

1. Business Manager Visa: Greater emphasis on real business activity

Confirmed changes

From 16 October 2025, the requirements for the Business Manager Visa will be revised.

• Business scale requirementIn principle, a business capital or equivalent of JPY 30 million or more will be required.

• Employment requirementThe employment of at least one full-time employee is now clearly specified as a condition.

  
  

Practical implications

In recent years, immigration authorities have increasingly focused on whether a business is genuinely operating in Japan. Applications based only on company registration, nominal capital, or unrealistic business plans are becoming far more difficult to approve.

Instead, the following points are examined more carefully:

• sustainability and profitability of the business

• whether business activities are actually conducted in Japan

• the credibility and feasibility of the business plan

The Business Manager Visa is increasingly positioned as a visa for genuine entrepreneurs, not for purely formal company setups.

2. Permanent Residence: Tax and social insurance compliance is critical

What has not changed, but is checked more strictly

When applying for Permanent Residence, Japan has long required proper payment of taxes and enrolment in, and payment of, social insurance and pension contributions.

In recent years, non-payment, long-term arrears, or repeated late payments are more likely to have a negative impact on the application.

Possible cancellation of Permanent Residence

There are ongoing discussions about introducing a system under which Permanent Residence could be revoked if a holder intentionally fails to fulfil tax or social security obligations.

Please note:

• This system is not yet in force.

• Current government materials indicate a target implementation around April 2027.

  
  

While Permanent Residence remains a stable status, the message is becoming clearer: it comes with ongoing responsibilities, not just long-term security.

3. Employment for international graduates: More flexibility, fewer documents

Positive developments

From 1 December 2025, international students who graduate from Japanese universities or vocational schools may benefit from reduced documentation requirements when applying for the Engineer / Specialist in Humanities / International Services visa, provided certain conditions are met.

In some cases, companies are no longer required to submit full financial statements.

Relationship between major and job role

Previously, immigration authorities often required a strict match between an applicant’s field of study and the content of the job.

Today, assessments tend to be more flexible, focusing instead on:

• how the applicant’s academic background relates to the job

• the actual duties involved

• the applicant’s role within the company

  
  

This makes it easier for international graduates to make use of their education in Japan.

4. Procedures are becoming digital, but costs may increase

Expansion of online applications

At present, only certain immigration procedures can be completed online, and Permanent Residence applications are generally submitted in person.

However, Japan’s immigration authorities have announced plans to modernise their systems as part of a major update scheduled for January 2026.

As part of this reform, Permanent Residence applications are also expected to become eligible for online submission in the future.

At this stage:

• the exact start date has not been announced

• it is not yet clear whether both personal and representative applications will be covered

Nevertheless, the overall direction is clear. Permanent Residence applications are expected to move towards online processing.

This is likely to reduce:

• the number of visits to immigration offices

• the burden on applicants living outside major cities

• administrative delays

  
  

Application fees

At the same time, there are reports that the government is considering significant increases in immigration application fees.

Proposals under discussion include:

• Permanent Residence application fees increasing to JPY 100,000 or more

• higher fees for visa renewals and status changes

  
  

These figures are not yet final, but they suggest that while procedures may become more convenient, financial costs may rise.

Conclusion: What this means for applicants

The overall direction of Japan’s immigration policy can be summarised as follows:

Procedures are becoming more digital and efficient, while economic stability and legal compliance are being examined more carefully.

For foreign nationals:

• Entrepreneurs should prepare solid, realistic business structures.

• Those aiming for Permanent Residence should manage tax and insurance obligations carefully.

• International graduates may find improved opportunities to work in Japan.

  
  

Immigration outcomes depend heavily on individual circumstances, including visa history, employment status, family situation, and compliance records. If you are unsure whether you meet the latest requirements, seeking professional advice at an early stage can help prevent costly delays or refusals.