3yr→5yr minimum stay, social insurance checks, MyNumber linked
From April 2026, permanent residency approval criteria are being tightened. The effective minimum stay extends from 3 to 5 years. Through MyNumber data sharing between agencies, social insurance payment status will be automatically verified.
Immigration can now directly access data from the Pension Service, Tax Agency, and municipalities through MyNumber. Social insurance and tax payment statuses that were previously self-reported are now automatically verified, instantly revealing non-payment or false declarations.
A transition period runs until March 31, 2027. Old criteria partially apply during this period, but early preparation for new standards is recommended.
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.
Japan opened public comment (Aug 4-Sep 3, 2026) on stricter Permanent Residency guidelines: household income above the Japanese average, pension outlook, B1 Japanese.