Key facts
- Japan plans to revise permanent residency guidelines as early as October.
- New rules will require applicants to earn more than the average Japanese household income.
- A minimum projected pension benefit threshold will also be implemented.
- Applicants' Japanese-language ability and understanding of laws will be assessed.
- The residency period requirement will be strengthened.
Japan is set to implement stricter requirements for foreign nationals seeking permanent residency, with revised guidelines planned to take effect as early as October. The changes, aimed at tightening management of foreign residents, will introduce a minimum income threshold set above the average Japanese household earnings and a projected pension benefit level equivalent to 30 years of enrollment in an employees' pension scheme.
Under the current guidelines, applicants must demonstrate good conduct, sufficient assets for independent livelihood, and that granting residency is in Japan's best interests. The revised rules will add the income and pension requirements, with shortfalls in projected pension benefits potentially offset by savings and other assets. Furthermore, an applicant's Japanese-language ability and understanding of the country's laws and regulations will be considered when assessing if residency is in Japan's national interest.
The income requirement is slated to be implemented from October, while other standards, including strengthened residency period requirements, will begin from April next year. For instance, spouses of Japanese nationals or permanent residents will see their required marriage and residency periods increase from one and three years to three and five years, respectively. The government is also exploring the possibility of setting a cap on the total number of foreign residents.