Japan moves to tighten rules for foreigners, throwing futures into doubt
3 hours ago
- Japan is tightening permanent residency rules, requiring higher income, Japanese language proficiency, and a 30-year pension pot.
- The changes reflect a shift towards selective immigration policy, potentially reducing attractiveness to foreign workers.
- Long-term foreign residents like Abdul and Nelkin fear they may not qualify, with some considering citizenship or leaving Japan.
- Public opinion in Japan is turning against immigration, with 56.3% opposing more foreigners in 2025, up from 35.6% in 2024.
- The political landscape has shifted rightward, with Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and far-right parties gaining ground on anti-immigration platforms.