9 itemsLatest information on residence status, visas, naturalization, and permanent residency
From June 2027, mid-to-long-term foreign residents who chronically default on national health insurance or pension premiums and ignore payment guidance will, in principle, be denied residence status renewal or change. Municipal and immigration systems link in FY2026 to reflect arrears automatically.
From April 2027, "Technical Intern Training" abolished, replaced by "Training Employment". 2026 is preparation period. N5 Japanese required, voluntary transfers allowed, can transition to Specified Skilled Worker (i) after 3 years.
eVisa expansion and upcoming JESTA (Japan's version of ESTA) launching in 2027. Online pre-screening required before travel.
From June 14, 2026, a "Specified Residence Card" combining residence card and My Number Card into one starts. Switching is voluntary.
From April 13, 2026, new applications for Specified Skilled Worker (i) "Food Service" field are frozen. Resident count has reached the 50,000 cap. Skills tests also suspended domestically and overseas.
From April 1, 2026, naturalization requirements tightened significantly. ~10 years residence, 5 years tax records, 2 years social insurance payments effectively required.
From April 1, 2026, visa renewal fees increase from ¥6K to up to ¥100K, permanent residency applications from ¥8K to ¥300K.
From April 2026, permanent residency minimum stay extends from 3 to 5 years. MyNumber links social insurance verification. Grace period until March 2027.
From April 1, 2026, Japan cuts the threshold for reporting foreign visitors' unpaid medical bills from ¥200,000 to just ¥10,000. Short-term visitors with unpaid bills are shared with Immigration and may be refused re-entry.