Must-know issues for anyone living in or visiting Japan, in 5 languages.
MIC approved NHK's disaster waiver for households hit by the 2026 Kumamoto earthquake: four months of licence fees waived, about 5,000 contracts, roughly 50 million yen. Nationality does not matter.
Last Updated: 2026-09-13
Japan's MHLW is inviting public comments on a draft ministerial ordinance partially amending the Immunization Act Enforcement Regulations. Published Aug 27, 2026; comments close Sep 27, 2026 at 0:00, so submit during Sep 26. Case number 495260162.
Japan's MHLW is seeking public comments on a draft Cabinet Order implementing part of the amended Health Insurance Act. It cites National Health Insurance Act and NHI tax provisions. Comments close at 23:59 on September 26, 2026 — relevant to foreign residents enrolled in NHI.
Japan's Digital Agency publishes a list of private services that verify identity using the My Number Card card-alternative electronic record. The Sony Bank app was added on 27 August 2026, covering bank and securities account opening and payment apps.
Japan's OTIT has newly published Kyrgyzstan's provisional list of sending organizations for the Ikusei Shuro (employment for skill development) system starting April 1, 2027. Anyone planning to come to Japan should check an agency's name on the official list before signing a contract or paying any fees.
On September 11, 2026, Japan's Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications published portal operators' replies to its request to cut furusato nozei platform fees. Donors' ¥2,000 share is unchanged, but more money may stay with local governments. Here's how the system works for foreign residents.
Japan's Consumer Affairs Agency published 27 serious product accidents on September 11, 2026. Fires occurred with an electric kettle, a rechargeable speaker, an electric-assist bicycle and a cordless pressure washer that were already under recall. Here is how to check your product and get a free replacement.
Japan's National Pension childcare premium exemption starts in October 2026. From September 11 the Japan Pension Service chatbot answers questions on who qualifies and how long the exemption runs — useful for foreign residents paying premiums themselves.
Enforcement Date: 2026-09-20
Enforcement Date: 2026-09-21
Enforcement Date: 2026-09-21
Enforcement Date: 2026-09-24
Enforcement Date: 2026-09-26
Enforcement Date: 2026-09-27
Enforcement Date: 2026-09-30
Enforcement Date: 2026-09-30
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