185 itemsJapan life issue guide for foreign residents & tourists
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.
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.
On Sept 12, 2026 the JMA raised Mt. Tokachidake (Hokkaido) to Eruption Alert Level 3 (do not approach the volcano). Beware large ballistic ejecta within about 3 km of Crater 62-2 — what hikers, travelers and residents should do now.
On Sept 11, 2026 METI accepted wheeling-tariff change filings from 8 power grid operators. These grid fees are built into the retail electricity price every household in Japan pays — here is who is covered and how to check the new rates.
On Sept 8, 2026, MLIT and JMA issued a Level 5 Flood Special Warning for the Shonai River in Aichi and Gifu — what Level 5 means, and what foreign residents and travelers should do now.
Japan's Digital Agency says a VPN-based intrusion into its Government Solution Service may have exposed about 246,000 records of ministry staff and contractors. No My Number or bank data was involved, but phishing risk is real.
Japan's Consumer Affairs Agency has held nine sessions of its Consumer Contract Act review panel since November 2025, the 9th on September 9, 2026, and has published an interim report. Here is what foreigners who sign contracts in Japan should know now.
On September 11, 2026, Japan's Cabinet Office applied the Disaster Victims Livelihood Recovery Support Act to five Chiba cities hit by the August 2026 heavy rain. Households whose homes were destroyed or severely damaged can apply for support payments.
Japan's National Police Agency runs its autumn road safety campaign from September 21 to 30, 2026. Pedestrian deaths become the largest category from October, and fatal crashes at dusk run about 1.7 times summer levels. Three focus areas apply.
Japan's Immigration Services Agency held its 14th expert panel on Sept 9, 2026, starting work to revise field-specific operation policies for Specified Skilled Worker and Employment for Skill Development, plus new FY2026 skill tests.
Japan's OTIT has published the list of Sri Lankan sending organizations accredited for the new Ikusei Shuro (employment for skill development) system. Anyone planning to come to Japan from Sri Lanka should check an agency's name on this official list before signing any contract or paying fees.
Japan's MLIT has published a draft cabinet order amending the Public Housing Act Enforcement Order, with public comments open from Sept 10 to 0:00 on Oct 11, 2026. It touches tenant eligibility, rent setting and vacating rules. Anyone may submit views.
Japan's MAFF set the government selling price of imported wheat for the October 2026 term at ¥70,020 per ton, a 12.0% increase. Here is what changed, how the twice-a-year system works, and what it means for your food budget.
On September 8, 2026 Japan's Consumer Affairs Agency published 17 serious product accidents, including fires involving a recalled rechargeable speaker (imported by Anker Japan) and an air purifier (imported by Daikin). Here is how to check your product and get a free collection, exchange or refund.
On Sept 8, 2026 the Japan Meteorological Agency issued a Level 5 Flood Special Warning for the Shonai River in Aichi and Gifu. What Level 5 means for foreign residents and travelers, and what to do right now.
From September 8, 2026, the Japan Meteorological Agency lowered heavy-rain warning thresholds to 80% of normal in Hakui City, Ishikawa, after levee breaches from the rain that began August 27. Warnings will now be issued at lower rainfall — what foreign residents and travelers should know.
On Sept 9, 2026 Japan's Cabinet Office announced the Disaster Relief Act now applies to Nagoya City, Aichi (from Sept 8) and Yakushima Town, Kagoshima (from Sept 4) after Typhoon No. 24 and frontal heavy rain. Shelters, emergency housing and home repairs are publicly funded — foreign residents and travelers qualify regardless of nationality.
Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare opened a public comment period on 7 September 2026 for a draft cabinet order arranging related orders for the partial enforcement of the Act amending the Social Welfare Act and others. Comments are accepted via e-Gov from 20:00 on 7 September until 20:00 on 7 October 2026, and anyone may submit regardless of nationality.
Japan's Digital Agency has digitized check-in on the evacuee ship Hakuo II, covering both boarding and disembarking from Aug 30, 2026. Disaster victim certificates can be filed online via Mynaportal, and Government AI Gennai runs until Sept 30.
On Sept 7, 2026 Japan's Financial Services Agency announced that the Kyushu Local Finance Bureau asked banks and insurers to support victims of Typhoon No. 24 and frontal heavy rain in Kagoshima. Foreign residents qualify on the same terms.
Kagoshima flood victims enrolled in Kyokai Kenpo can see a doctor without an insurance card: state your name, birth date, contact number and employer at the clinic window.
On September 7, 2026 the Japan Meteorological Agency reported that no unusual change suggesting a relatively higher chance of a major Nankai Trough quake has been observed. Here is how to read this monthly bulletin and stay prepared in Japan.
Japan's MHLW published its FY2025 Survey on Employment of Foreign Workers on Aug 31, 2026. Average monthly pay reached ¥292,400 (up 6.4%), with figures by residence status, working hours, hiring routes and reported job problems.
OTIT has posted the forestry-sector operational guidelines for Japan's new Ikusei Shuro system. Here is where to find them, how they relate to forestry technical intern training, and what workers should check before signing.
Japan's Digital Agency extended emergency access to its Government AI "Gennai" for Kumamoto quake response through September 30, while disaster-victim certificates needed for aid and fee waivers can be filed online via Myna Portal.
Japan's Digital Agency is seeking public comments on draft amendments to the My Number order and the technical standards for individual number cards. Submit through e-Gov in Japanese between 31 August and 30 September 2026; foreign residents may also comment.
On September 7, 2026, the Japan Meteorological Agency issued a Level 5 Landslide Emergency Warning for Niijima Village, Tokyo. Unprecedented rainfall means disasters may already be occurring. Here is what foreign residents and travelers should do immediately, and how to check risk on the Kikikuru map.
Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare has reopened public comments on revising the diagnostic criteria and severity classifications for designated intractable diseases. Submissions close at 23:59 on September 30, 2026 (case no. 495260174).
Japan's Consumer Affairs Agency published 19 serious product accidents on Sept 1, 2026 — fires involving already-recalled air conditioners and rechargeable speakers. How to check your model number and who to contact.
Japan's MHLW opened public comment on Sept 5, 2026 for a draft ordinance amending the National Health Insurance enforcement rules and related rules covering elderly medical care and nursing care insurance. Comments close Oct 4, 2026 at 23:59. Here is what is confirmed so far.
Japan's Digital Agency has opened online applications for Kumamoto earthquake disaster certificates via Mynaportal — the document needed for relief payments and reductions of taxes, insurance premiums and utility charges.
On Sept 4, 2026 Japan's Consumer Affairs Agency published 24 serious product accidents, including fires from an already-recalled cordless pressure washer and lithium-battery chargers. How to check your appliances and claim a free recall exchange.
On September 5, 2026 the Japan Meteorological Agency issued a Landslide Emergency Warning (Alert Level 5) for Yakushima Town, Kagoshima. Here is what Level 5 means, why you must not wait for it, and how to check your own risk on the Kikikuru hazard map.
On September 4, 2026, Japan's METI approved applications from eight general transmission and distribution utilities to revise their wheeling-service revenue outlooks. Wheeling charges are built into every electricity bill in Japan. Here is what was approved and how to check it.
Japan's Cabinet Office damage report as of 7:00 on September 4, 2026: 1,514 homes damaged and 111 evacuees from the Hokuriku heavy rain and Typhoon No. 24, plus rail, flight, road and water supply impacts explained for foreign residents.
Kagoshima applied the Disaster Relief Act to Yakushima Town on Sept 4, 2026 after Typhoon No. 24 and frontal heavy rain. Relief is not limited by nationality or visa status.
On Sept 3, 2026 Japan's National Police Agency released an expert panel report on the driving skills test for drivers aged 75+. It proposes adding a "direction change" maneuver, a "failure to check safety" penalty, and heavier points for running a stop line. Here is what foreign residents should know.
On Sept 3, 2026, Japan's MHLW compiled the FY2026 regional minimum wage recommendations from all 47 prefectures. The national weighted average is ¥1,177, up ¥56 from ¥1,121. New rates take effect between Oct 1 and Dec 2, 2026, and apply to foreign workers too.
On September 3, 2026 Japan's Consumer Affairs Agency named three fraudulent sites (dccvd.com, dcvfert.top, mzisoe.top) that impersonate Tanaka Kikinzoku and Mikimoto through SNS ads and ship suspected counterfeit jewelry. Here is how to spot them and where to get help.
Japan's Consumer Affairs Agency warns that trouble starting on social media — investment tips and side jobs promising easy money — continues across all ages. Some approaches appear to impersonate celebrities. If you are told to wire funds to an account in an individual's name, it is fraud. Call 188 for advice.
From October 1, 2026, fees for changing or renewing residence status rise to up to 75,000 yen, and permanent residency to 200,000 yen. File by September 30 and you keep the current fee (5,500 yen online) even if approval comes later. Apply this month if your renewal is due.
OTIT's Kumamoto Branch has published a leaflet for employers who assign technical intern trainees to disaster recovery and reconstruction work. Work outside the approved training plan is not allowed without proper procedures. Here is what interns and employers should check.
OTIT published the list of Laos government-certified sending organizations for the Ikusei Shuro (Employment for Skill Development) system starting April 2027, plus what applicants and employers should check before signing anything.
On August 31, 2026, Japan's MOJ, MOFA, MHLW and NPA signed a Memorandum of Cooperation with the Lao Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare on the Ikusei Shurou system, setting the sending framework for workers coming from Laos under the new scheme.
On September 2, 2026, Japan's MEXT published the updated list of schools confirmed under the higher education tuition support program. Tuition waivers and grant-type scholarships apply only at schools on that list — here is how to check before you enroll.
On September 2, 2026, Japan's National Consumer Affairs Center warned about trouble when selling jewelry and precious metals at shops. Complaints hit 937 in FY2025, about 5.7× in five years. In-store sales have no cooling-off right — here is what foreign residents and travelers should know.
On September 1, 2026, Japan's Consumer Affairs Agency released a countermeasure package targeting scam businesses that collect money, collapse, and leave many consumers with serious financial losses. Here is what was published, where to get multilingual help, and how to protect yourself.
Japan's FSA amended money lending regulations on Aug 31, 2026, so the registry for non-Japanese chief officers can now record a specific region in the nationality field, matching family register rules.
From September 1, 2026, the Japan Pension Service mails postcard-type claim forms for the Pension Support Benefit to basic pension recipients who newly qualify. Recipients may file online instead of by mail.
On August 31, 2026, the Japan Pension Service updated its page on disability pension decisions, publishing preliminary figures on the progress of its review of denied and similar cases. Disability pension has no nationality requirement, so foreign residents enrolled in Japan's public pension are covered too.
Japan's autumn national traffic safety campaign runs September 21-30, 2026. Police focus on pedestrian reflectors, early headlights, drink-driving and phone use, plus bicycle and e-scooter rules — now backed by the bicycle fixed-penalty system in force since April 2026.
Japan's Digital Agency is inviting public comments on draft amendments to the ministerial order on individual numbers, My Number Cards and specific personal information under the My Number Act, plus revised technical standards for the cards. Submissions run from 0:00 on Aug 31, 2026 to 23:59 on Sep 30, 2026. Foreign residents holding or planning to hold a card should review the drafts.
On August 31, 2026, the Japan Pension Service announced that ongoing municipal system upgrades may slow the checks of residence and income data needed to review pension claims, adding roughly one to two weeks to processing. Benefit rules themselves are unchanged.
Affected by the heavy rain from Aug 27, 2026 in Toyama or Ishikawa? Kyokai Kenpo members can receive insured care without a My Number health card or eligibility certificate by stating name, date of birth, contact details and employer at the counter.
From October 1, 2026, reduced and waived fees apply to status changes, period extensions and permanent residency. Reduced fees are ¥10,000 or ¥20,000, and reduction requests must be filed at an immigration counter, not online.
From Oct 1, 2026, residence application fees vary by the permitted period. Online filings are paid at convenience stores or banks; revenue stamps no longer work. Amounts, payment fees and scam warnings explained.
From Oct 1, 2026, Japan revises fees for status changes, extensions and permanent residency: amounts vary by the period of stay granted, online applications move to konbini or bank payment, and a fee reduction/waiver scheme starts.
OTIT has published the sector operational guidelines for logistics and warehousing under Japan's Employment for Skill Development system, due to start in April 2027 with extra standards for supervisors.
On August 25, 2026 Japan's Digital Agency merged the Myna Portal App with the Digital Authentication App and released it as the "Myna App". Moving notifications, passport applications, insurance, medicine and pension records now sit behind one login. Here is what foreign residents should know.
On August 29, 2026 the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare opened public comment on a draft ordinance amending the Health Insurance Act Enforcement Regulations. Comments are accepted until 23:59 on September 27 (case No. 495260169). Anyone, regardless of nationality, may submit an opinion.
On Aug 28, 2026, Japan's MEXT released a package to strengthen Japanese-language support for foreign children and adults nationwide, and revised its guideline on promoting school enrollment for foreign children. Here is what it means for you.
On August 28, 2026, Japan's MEXT issued a notice on strengthening Japanese language education, bundling support for foreign children's school enrollment, pre-school and pre-class初期 instruction, community Japanese programs and teacher training.
On August 28, 2026, Japan's MEXT issued a notice to promote school enrollment for foreign children, with a guideline on tracking enrollment status and a sample query form to immigration. Here is what foreign families in Japan should know and do.
Japan's Agriculture Ministry released its September 2026 vegetable growth and price outlook on Aug 28. Cucumbers and tomatoes are set to run above the five-year average in early September, while potatoes, onions and lettuce come in below it. Here is how to read it when you shop.
The Japan Health Insurance Association says September 2026 premiums for voluntary continuation coverage are due Thursday, Sept 10; payment slips were mailed Aug 27. Missing the deadline ends your coverage the next day.
On August 27, 2026 at 11:00, the Japan Meteorological Agency lowered the Volcanic Alert Level for Mt. Iwate from 2 (crater area restriction) to 1 (be aware it is an active volcano). The stage in place since October 2024 has ended, but sudden gas and hot water emissions inside the assumed crater remain possible.
On Aug 27, 2026, Japan's FSA announced that the Hokuriku Local Finance Bureau requested financial relief measures for Toyama and Ishikawa after that day's heavy rain: eased cash withdrawals, faster insurance payouts and loan consultations, open to foreign residents too.
Japan's Fire and Disaster Management Agency confirmed 41,174 heatstroke ambulance transports in July 2026 — the third-highest July on record. 60.2% were aged 65+, 41.4% needed hospital admission, and 41.7% occurred inside homes. Key prevention and emergency-call points for foreign residents and visitors.
Japan's health ministry opened public comment on Aug 25, 2026 on revising the risk classes of over-the-counter medicines. The class decides who may sell a drug, where it sits in the store, and what explanation you get. Comments close at 0:00 on Sep 24, 2026.
Since 8:00 a.m. on August 25, 2026, the Myna App release has caused errors in Nenkin Net e-filing on some Android phones. Seven procedures, including bank transfer setup and pension claims, must be filed on paper until the fix. Affected devices and steps explained.
Japan's Immigration Services Agency published a draft amendment to the notice defining activities under the Designated Activities status on Aug 24, 2026, and is accepting public comments until 0:00 on Sept 23 (case no. 315000144). Anyone may submit.
Japan's MLIT published draft amendments to the Road Vehicle Safety Standards ordinance and its detailed notification on Aug 21, 2026. Public comments are open until 23:00 on Sept 20 (case no. 155260927).
On Aug 21, 2026, Japan's FSA announced that the Kanto Local Finance Bureau requested financial measures for the July 17–18 heavy rain disaster, covering Tochigi Prefecture. Here is what affected foreign residents should check and where to ask.
Hit by the July 17–18, 2026 heavy rain? You can still get medical care without your My Number insurance card. Just tell the hospital desk your name, date of birth, contact number and employer. Announced by JHIA on Aug 21, 2026.
Japan's revised Mobile Phone Fraud Prevention Act was promulgated on May 29, 2026. On August 3 the MIC published the direction for the ministerial rules that will shape ID checks and anti-misuse measures for phone contracts.
Japan's Immigration Services Agency is seeking public comment on a draft ordinance amending the Immigration Control Act Enforcement Regulations. Filed Aug 4, 2026; comments close at 00:00 on Sept 3, 2026. Anyone may submit an opinion.
On Aug 4, 2026 Japan's Consumer Affairs Agency issued an alert under Article 38(1) of the Consumer Safety Act naming three fake shopping sites — 竜の野, STORE専門ショップ and Sie市場店 — that posed as cheap sellers of rare, limited-edition goods but never shipped after payment.
From Monday, October 19, 2026, Japan's MLIT extends the choice-plate system to small (over 250cc) and light (126–250cc) motorcycles. Apply online or at a counter; fees run ¥2,500–3,000 per plate, with popular numbers assigned by lottery.
Japan's MHLW has published a draft ordinance amending the Employment Insurance Act Enforcement Regulations, with public comments open from Aug 15 to 11:59 p.m. Sept 13, 2026. It rests on Article 62 (employment stability projects) and is handled by the Foreign Workers' Employment Measures Division.
Japan's Agency for Natural Resources and Energy has opened a public comment on its review of gas system reform and future direction. Submissions run from 19:30 on Aug 14 to 23:59 on Sep 15, 2026 via e-Gov, case No. 620340003.
Japan's Digital Agency updated its list of financial institutions and branches eligible for public benefit (koukin uketori) account registration on August 17, 2026, with lists by institution type, Excel files, and Mynaportal-only cases.
If you were hit by the heavy rain from Aug 13, 2026 and lost your My Number insurance card or eligibility certificate, you can still see a doctor by giving your name, date of birth, contact number and employer at the reception desk. Details of Kyokai Kenpo's Aug 14 notice.
Japan's Immigration Services Agency has published FY2026 stakeholder hearing records: the Chiba City International Association (April 21), a Ryukoku University associate professor (May 11), and a Vietnamese community (June 25, summary in preparation).
On August 7, 2026, Japan's MIC and six other agencies jointly asked Google, LY Corp., Meta, TikTok and X to strengthen measures against deepfake impersonation ads, as investment scams starting from such ads keep growing.
Japan's MHLW opened public comment on draft ministerial ordinances tied to the partial entry into force of the amended Health Insurance Act. Comments close at 23:59 on September 12, 2026 (case 495260132).
From June 1, 2026, SBI Sumishin Net Bank accepts direct debit of employees' pension, health insurance and child-rearing contributions. Here is how employers in Japan file the application form.
Japan's MHLW opened public comment on Aug 7, 2026 for a Cabinet Order draft tied to partial enforcement of the amended Health Insurance Act. It spans employee, seamen's, national and elderly insurance. Deadline: Sept 6.
On Aug 6, 2026, Japan's National Police Agency and six other ministries jointly asked Google, LINE Yahoo, Meta, TikTok and X to strengthen measures against impersonation scam ads on SNS. Here is what the request covers and how foreign residents can report ads.
Japan's Ikusei Shuro system starts April 1, 2027: A1-level Japanese before work and A2 within three years. The Immigration Services Agency has published a June 2026 list of institutions offering the required courses.
In July 2026 Japan's Immigration Services Agency published a Ministry of Justice project-team report on creating a "Japanese Language and Daily Life Learning Program" (working title) for foreign residents, including accompanying family. Scope and timing are still under government study.
Japan's residence card reader app must be updated for new-format cards. Period of stay, permit type and permit date return in a revised version due around September 2026.
Japan's 2026 immigration law reform (Act No. 32 of 2026) passed the Diet on May 29 and was promulgated on June 5, 2026. It creates JESTA, an electronic travel authorization system, and raises the statutory ceiling on fees for status-of-residence changes. Here is what foreign residents and visitors should check.
Revised Immigration Act (Act No. 32), promulgated June 5, 2026: residence-status fee rules start by March 31, 2027; JESTA travel authorization by March 31, 2029.
On June 2, 2026, Japan (MOJ, MHLW, MOFA, NPA) and Thailand's Ministry of Labour concluded the first Memorandum of Cooperation under the new Ikusei Shurou program, covering sending-agency accreditation, mutual notification of revocations, and worker protection.
Japan's Immigration Services Agency published an 80-item Q&A on Ikusei Shuro, the work status starting April 1, 2027: three years of training toward Specified Skilled Worker (i) level, conditional worker-initiated transfers, and pre-launch filings from 2026.
Japan's Kyushu Transport Bureau is accepting public comments from Aug 10 to Aug 24, 2026 on Minami-Aso Railway's application to change its passenger fare cap. We explain how the fare-cap approval system works, how to read the application PDF, and how to submit an opinion.
Japan's Financial Services Agency updated its alert on August 10, 2026: fake sites impersonating real brokerages steal login IDs and passwords, then strangers trade in your account. Here is how the scam works, why passkey multi-factor authentication matters, and who to contact.
From June 14, 2026, Japan's revised Immigration Control Act changes the format of the residence card and special permanent resident certificate: children aged 1 to 15 will now have their photo printed on the card. Applications filed before that date may be asked to submit a photo voluntarily, and online applicants are told to upload it in the document attachment field.
From April 1, 2026, periodic reports under Japan's Specified Skilled Worker system change from quarterly to once a year, covering April 1–March 31 and due by May 31 of the following year. Ad-hoc reports stay due within 14 days, and failure to file blocks further hiring.
Japan's Immigration Services Agency published the FY2025 Basic Survey on Foreign Residents in May 2026. Surveyed Oct–Nov 2025 on work, daily and social life; question lists in 10 languages.
On Aug 7, 2026, Japan's Digital Agency and six other ministries sent a written request to Google, LINE Yahoo, Meta, TikTok and X to strengthen voluntary action against deepfake impersonation fraud ads. Who was addressed, why it is a request rather than regulation, and which government contacts foreign residents can use.
From August 2026 Japan Pension Service mails a consent-check form on registering your pension deposit account as a Public Money Receiving Account; a chatbot explains timing and opt-out steps 24/7.
From August 2026 the Japan Pension Service mails pension recipients a consent letter about registering their pension deposit account as a public payout account. Agreeing needs no action — only objectors must return the non-consent slip by the deadline.
On Aug 7, 2026, Japan's Consumer Affairs Agency and six other ministries jointly asked major SNS operators in writing to strengthen action on impersonation scam ads. What foreign residents and visitors should know.
On Aug 7, 2026, Japan's FSA and six other agencies jointly asked major SNS platforms to strengthen measures against impersonation fraud ads that misuse the names of celebrities and financial firms. Here is what foreign residents and visitors should know, plus where to get help.
On August 6, 2026, Japan's FSA and the National Police Agency jointly asked the crypto industry association to tighten anti-fraud steps: stricter account opening checks, temporary withdrawal holds after deposits or purchases, pre-registration of withdrawal addresses, and remitter-name matching.
Japan's NCAC warned on July 1, 2026 about severe child injuries from car power windows: 2 cases confirmed in 3 years, and only 2 of 7 tested cars had anti-pinch on all seats.
Japan's NCAC announced on Aug 5, 2026 that FY2025 consultations to the Consumer Hotline for Tourists hit a record 698 (FY2024: 513) — 493 from visitors, 153 from foreign residents. Seven languages are supported via interpreters.
Japan opened public comment (Aug 4-Sep 4, 2026) on a draft guideline for revoking Permanent Residency: unpaid taxes or insurance, Immigration Act breaches, crimes.
Japan opened public comment (Aug 4-Sep 3, 2026) on stricter Permanent Residency guidelines: household income above the Japanese average, pension outlook, B1 Japanese.
On July 31, 2026, Japan's Consumer Affairs Agency disclosed 26 serious product accidents—fires and more—tied to lithium-battery chargers, cordless earbuds and rechargeable pressure washers, with recalls. Check if your device is affected and stop using it.
Japan's Central Minimum Wage Council is now debating the FY2026 hike benchmark. The new hourly rates, effective around October 2026, directly affect foreign part-timers and workers. Here is how the system works and what to watch.
Promulgated April 28, 2026, effective October 1, 2026. Japan's "equal pay for equal work" rules now spell out bonuses, retirement, family and housing allowances — and employers must state at hiring that you can request an explanation of treatment gaps.
Procedures for EPA Certified Care Worker candidates who qualified for the exam and returned home. Online applications for the 39th exam run July 22 – Sept 2, 2026 (fee ¥20,510). The exam is held in Japan on Jan 31, 2027, with results announced March 23, 2027.
Announced by Japan's MLIT on July 17, 2026. Rental car crashes by foreign drivers rose from 47 (2020) to 212 (2025), with right-turn crashes about 2.7× the Japanese rate. Colored pavement, rubber poles and KEEP LEFT signs roll out near New Chitose, Fukuoka and Naha airports.
From April 2025, the shingles vaccine became a routine Category-B immunization: mainly people turning 65, plus ages 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, and 100 through FY2029, with municipal subsidies. Choose one live dose or two recombinant doses.
From April 2025, families supporting three or more dependent children get free university tuition and entrance fees, with no income cap — up to about ¥700,000/yr + ¥260,000 at private universities. Certain residence statuses only; student-visa holders excluded.
Japan's 2024 Climate Change Adaptation Act created the Heatstroke Special Alert (WBGT 35 prefecture-wide) and cooling shelters anyone can use — summer heat safety for foreign residents and tourists.
From June 1, 2025, a revised Industrial Safety and Health Regulation makes workplace heatstroke measures mandatory with penalties. It covers work at WBGT 28°C+ or 31°C+ air temperature lasting over 1 continuous hour or 4 hours a day. Employers must set up detection/reporting systems and worsening-prevention procedures; violations bring up to 6 months in prison or a ¥500,000 fine.
From April 1, 2025, 125cc-class bikes with power capped at 4.0kW became "new-standard mopeds" you can ride on a moped license. Tighter emission rules make 50cc engines hard to build, so domestic 50cc production ends in late October 2025. Traffic rules stay the same as before.
From March 24, 2025, Japan launched the "My Number Driver's License," combining your license into your My Number Card. Excellent and general drivers can take renewal courses online, and address changes finish at the city office alone. Opt-in.
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 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.
Since around 2025, water rate hikes have been spreading across Japan's municipalities, driven by aging pipes laid in the high-growth era and falling fee revenue as the population shrinks. A 2025 study by the Finance Ministry's Policy Research Institute estimates that utilities not covering renewal costs would need an average hike of about 80% to reach full cost recovery. All residents, foreigners included, are affected.
The revised Broadcast Act of October 1, 2025 makes viewing NHK's new online service NHK ONE subject to the fee. With no TV and an internet-only viewing application, it costs ¥1,100/month (¥965 in Okinawa). Merely owning a smartphone creates no obligation, and TV license holders pay nothing extra.
From July 2025, all four Mt. Fuji trails (Yamanashi's Yoshida and Shizuoka's Fujinomiya, Gotemba, Subashiri) require a ¥4,000 entry fee and advance web reservation. Entry is blocked 2pm–3am, and the Yoshida trail caps climbers at 4,000 per day to curb reckless overnight climbing.
From October 2024, Japan greatly expanded its Child Allowance (jido teate). The income cap was removed, and eligibility now extends from junior-high age up to high-school age (until the first March 31 after a child turns 18). Payments for a third or later child rise to ¥30,000/month, and are now made six times a year in even months instead of three. Eligible families who have not applied must do so.
From April 2026, Japan removes the income cap on the High School Enrollment Support Fund, so households qualify regardless of income, and the private-school cap rises to ¥457,200/year. But foreign students must meet residence-status rules: Student status is excluded and Dependent status has extra conditions.
In April 2026, Japan launches the Kodomo Dare-demo Tsuen system nationwide — part-time childcare with no employment requirement. Children aged 6 months to under 3 who are not enrolled in nursery can attend up to 10 hours a month for about ¥300 per hour.
From Oct 1, 2025, furusato-tax sites like Rakuten and PayPay can no longer add their own reward points, under a revised Soumu-sho standard. Gifts and the tax deduction stay, but the effective perk shrinks—relevant to tax-paying foreign residents.
Heated tobacco (IQOS, glo, Ploom) is taxed closer to cigarettes in two 2026 stages, then rises yearly to 2029—Terea ¥580 to about ¥700. A rising cost for foreign smokers and visitors in Japan.
Japan's 50-year provisional gasoline tax ended Dec 31, 2025: gasoline ~¥25.1/L cheaper, diesel ~¥17.1/L from Apr 1, 2026. Subsidies phase the drop into pump prices—good news for foreign drivers.
From FY2026, nationality and passport/ID documents must be submitted when registering real estate (land/buildings). Applies to everyone including Japanese nationals. Not shown on public registry — managed in government database.
The Ministry of Finance is reviewing abolition/reduction of duty-free threshold for imports under ¥10,000. May affect foreign residents who shop from overseas sites (Shein, Amazon.com, etc.).
From April 2026, drug prices cut by 0.86% (medical cost basis). Some items reduced by over 40% under market expansion reassessment. Lower out-of-pocket costs for foreign patients using prescription drugs.
From June 2026, new price-adjustment surcharges effectively raise initial consultation by ~¥20 and follow-up by ~¥30. Affects out-of-pocket costs for foreign residents at 30% copay.
From April 2026, 34 more brand-name drugs added to the "selected medical treatment" list (total 775). Patients choosing brand-name over generic pay 1/4 of the price difference out of pocket. Affects foreign residents with chronic conditions.
Kyoto City is tightening vacation rental rules: "zero-day zones" where no rentals are allowed, late-night spot inspections, and business suspension orders for unregistered operators. Affects tourists using Airbnb and foreign property owners.
Employers must offer 2+ out of 5 flexible work options (remote work, staggered hours, shorter hours, etc.) to employees with children aged 3 to pre-school. Foreign employees are also covered.
From April 2026, the earnings threshold for pension reduction while working rises from ¥500K to ¥620K/month. Elderly foreign residents working and receiving pension may see higher payouts.
80 years since the last Nankai Trough earthquake (1946). Guide to pre-evacuation actions when "Caution" or "Warning" alerts are issued. Multilingual leaflets available for foreign residents and tourists.
From the 2026 flood season, a new disaster weather system will forecast linear rainband formation 2–3 hours in advance. Enables earlier evacuation prep during rainy/typhoon season. Check multilingual app notifications.
Highway late-night ETC discount (30% off) narrowed from 10 PM–6 AM to 12 AM–4 AM. Effectively a price increase for rental car tourists and long-distance drivers.
Vehicle Environmental Performance Tax fully abolished on March 31, 2026. Tax burden reduced by up to ~¥90,000 when purchasing new or used cars. Benefits foreign residents buying vehicles in Japan.
From October 2026, input tax credit from tax-exempt businesses reduced from 80% to 70%. Affects foreign freelancers, sole proprietors, and businesses dealing with exempt vendors.
From April 2026, National Health Insurance premium cap rises from ¥1.09M to ¥1.1M. Medical portion up from ¥660K to ¥670K. Affects high-income foreign residents earning ~¥11.5M+.
From May 2026 meter reading, the renewable energy surcharge rises from ¥3.98 to ¥4.18/kWh. ~¥52/month more for 260kWh usage. Winter heating costs increase further. Electricity bills have been rising continuously since 2024.
Building on the 2024 Freelance Protection Act, the "SME Subcontracting Fairness Act" takes effect January 2026. Written contracts and on-time payment are now mandatory. Foreign freelancers working on contract in Japan are also protected.
From April 2026, a "Child Care Support Levy" is added to health insurance premiums (~0.23%, ~¥500/month). All insured persons — including single, childless foreigners — pay equally. Take-home pay decreases.
From April 2026, National Pension premium rises from ¥17,510 to ¥17,920/month. Full Old-Age Basic Pension: ¥70,608/month. Directly affects all foreign residents enrolled as Category 1 insured.
Effective October 2025. National weighted average reaches ¥1,121/hr (+¥66 YoY). All 47 prefectures surpass ¥1,000 for the first time. Directly impacts hourly wages for foreign part-timers and specified skilled workers.
Effective August 1, 2026 (Phase 1). Monthly out-of-pocket cap raised 4–38% by income bracket. New annual cap of ¥530,000 for those earning ¥2–7.7M/year. Multiple-occurrence reduction kept as-is.
Effective October 1, 2025. Foreigners are now explicitly listed as "Housing Support Priority Persons." Launching the MLIT-certified rent guarantor company system and supportive housing certification — expected to reduce rental refusals.
Effective April 1, 2026. Online mobile contract ID verification is unified under Public Personal Authentication (JPKI) via My Number Card. Those without one must sign up in person.
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 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.
Effective October 1, 2025. Foreign license conversion test expanded 10→50 questions, pass mark 70→90%. Residence certificate required; tourists cannot convert.
From April 2026, dependent status based on projected income instead of past income. Temporary spikes won't disqualify. ¥1.3M wall remains.
April 2026: electricity (+¥450/month), gas (+¥170/month), 200+ food items, and social insurance all going up simultaneously.
From April 2026, linen supply, logistics warehousing, and resource recycling added to Specified Skills. Total 19 fields, 5-year cap expanded to 1.23M.
From April 2026, permanent residency minimum stay extends from 3 to 5 years. MyNumber links social insurance verification. Grace period until March 2027.
Himeji Castle introduces dual pricing. Himeji residents ¥1,000, others ¥2,500. Residence card with Himeji address gets resident rate.
Energy subsidy ended with March 2026 usage. ¥3,000+/month increase from April. Renewable surcharge hits record ¥3.98/kWh.
From June 14, 2026, a "Specified Residence Card" combining residence card and My Number Card into one starts. Switching is voluntary.
eVisa expansion and upcoming JESTA (Japan's version of ESTA) launching in 2027. Online pre-screening required before travel.
Complete guide to Japanese garbage sorting rules. Categories, collection days, and penalties for violations explained.
Complete earthquake preparation guide for foreigners in Japan. Essential apps, emergency bags, and shelter locations explained in multiple languages.
From April 2026, part-timers working 20+ hours/week at companies with 51+ employees must join social insurance (health insurance + pension).
From April 2026, foreigners who departed with re-entry permits cannot claim pension lump-sum withdrawal during the permit validity period.
Next-gen My Number Card in 2026. New design, gender removed from face, 10-year validity. My Number Insurance Card function built in.
Basic deduction raised from ¥480K to ¥950K, tax-free threshold from ¥1.03M to ¥1.78M. Part-time workers' take-home pay increases significantly.
From September 2026, speed limit on residential roads without center lines drops from 60km/h to 30km/h. Applies to all vehicles for pedestrian safety.
Oversized luggage (over 160cm total) on Shinkansen requires advance reservation. ¥1,000 fee without reservation. Easy booking via SmartEX app.
From March 2026, Kyoto's accommodation tax increases significantly. Luxury stays taxed up to ¥10,000/night. 3-tier system for all accommodations.
Paper health insurance cards fully abolished on March 31, 2026. Transition to My Number Insurance Card. Qualification certificates available for those without My Number Card.
From April 1, 2026, naturalization requirements tightened significantly. ~10 years residence, 5 years tax records, 2 years social insurance payments effectively required.
From Nov 1, 2026, tax-free shopping changes to refund system. Pay 10% tax at stores, get refund at airport.
From July 1, 2026, Japan's departure tax increases from ¥1,000 to ¥3,000. Applies to everyone aged 2+.
Effective April 1, 2026. Traffic fine system introduced for bicycles. Smartphone use: ¥12,000, running red lights: ¥6,000.