Articles
Practical guides and policy updates on visas, permanent residence and koseki records for foreign residents in Japan — written by a licensed gyoseishoshi.
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Foreign Residents in Japan Top 4 Million: What the 2025 Figures Show
Foreign residents in Japan reached 4,125,395 at the end of 2025, topping 4 million for the first time. Which nationalities and statuses drove the growth?
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New “5-Year Visa” Requirement for Permanent Residence (PR)
From April 2027, you will need a 5-year period of stay, not 3, to apply for permanent residence in Japan. Learn who the transitional rule protects.
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Revisions to the “Business Manager” Visa
Business Manager visa rules changed in October 2025: ¥30 million capital, a full-time employee, an expert-reviewed business plan, and B2-level Japanese.
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What to Do If You Lose Your Residence Card While Abroad?
Lost your residence card abroad? Get a police report, avoid being denied boarding with a Certificate for the Re-entry Permit Deadline, and reissue in Japan.
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Promotion of Countermeasures against Illegal Employment of Foreign Nationals (Revised)
Four Japanese agencies revised their measures against illegal employment of foreign nationals in May 2024. Our translation of their analysis of recent trends.
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How can you prove that you are in the visa application process (including during the special period) when applying online?
Applied online for an extension or change of status? Your residence card is not stamped, so carry the Application Acceptance Number Notification e-mail.
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Visa Denied in Japan? What to Do Next and How to Apply Again
Was your visa extension or change of status denied in Japan? Learn what to do while your period of stay is still valid, what happens after it expires, and how to apply again.
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Trial of New System for Checking Foreigners Departing for Japan
Japan plans to trial a system in FY2024 in which airlines share passenger data at check-in so immigration can flag travelers likely to be refused entry.
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Digital Nomad Visa Released
Japan's Immigration Agency has released the details of a new visa for international remote workers, the Digital Nomad Visa. The visa is available to citizens of 49 countries.
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3.4 Million Foreign Residents in Japan (2023)
Foreign residents in Japan hit a record 3,410,992 at the end of 2023. See the top nationalities and statuses of residence, led by China and Permanent Resident.
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Have a question about your own situation?
Our articles cover general rules. For advice on your own situation, a licensed gyoseishoshi can answer your questions in writing or handle your application for you.
Questions about your own situation? Get a written answer from a gyoseishoshi (JPY 13,200, tax incl.) →