The Japanese government is reportedly mulling stricter immigration controls as part of its foreign resident policy, local media has reported. A comprehensive plan is set to be finalised in early next year, with specific visa categories and measures now coming into focus, according to The Mainichi.
What changes can be expected?
According to Kyodo News, Japan may add Japanese language proficiency to the requirements for permanent residency, sources close to the matter said on Thursday, in anticipation of a rise in future applicants.
The idea is expected to be included in proposals for new requirements to be compiled by a Liberal Democratic Party panel by April 2027, when an amendment to the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act comes into effect.
The revised law will also allow for permanent residency to be revoked if the holder intentionally neglects public obligations, such as paying taxes.
Additionally, stricter rules for part-time work by international students are also being reviewed to prevent them from working more hours than permitted. Currently, students in the country may work up to 28 hours per week in jobs outside their designated status if granted permission by immigration authorities.
The government is considering shifting to a screening process that evaluates academic performance and other factors when giving permission to work, rather than granting permission upon arrival in Japan.
How many foreign residents live in Japan right now?
According to the Immigration Services Agency, the number of foreign residents in Japan stood at a record 3.96 million as of the end of June, with permanent residents comprising the largest group at around 930,000, or 23.6 per cent, of the total, The Mainichi reported.
Currently, a foreigner applying for permanent residency must have resided in Japan for at least 10 years and provide evidence of having the means to support themselves, among other requirements.
Meanwhile, a growing number of cases show foreign workers on visas for engineers and other specialists being sent to do unskilled jobs that their visa status does not allow. This has prompted the government to consider tighter monitoring of staffing agencies and employers.