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 If you rely on outdated information, you may find that your application does not proceed as expected.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

*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 country’s approach...

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, from the perspective...