If you are an expat or foreigner living in Japan, then you know that there are quite a few visa changes taking place. It’s important for you to understand what is happening and what is changing. This article will cover information that you should know moving forward.
It’s important moving forward that you understand there are a mixture of things currently going on. Some things are already taking place, some things are scheduled for next year, and others are still being considered.
That being said, this will be updated information to know as of Fall 2026.
Japan’s policies towards immigration, visa rules, and permanent residency requirements are in the midst of being reviewed and changing.
I hope that this article can serve as a bit of a separation option to better understand what is happening for those who are feeling anxious after seeing all of the posts on social media.
Under the new Prime Minister, Japan has stated that they are going to emphasize “well-ordered and harmonious coexistence,” specifically with foreign nationals.
Hence why I also think it is important to state what we already know is happening compared to what is being proposed and considered.
It has been explicitly stated that foreign workers and residents are needed, especially when taking into consideration Japan’s population decline. However, the Prime Minister has also stated that the government should introduce new changes involving social insurance obligations, immigration rules, and taxes.
So, what exactly is changing?
From October 1st, 2026, fees will change significantly when it comes to renewing your visa, changing your status of residence, and applying for permanent residency.
The new prices and changes are below.
I highly suggest applying online if you are able to, given the price difference between applying online and in person. The reason behind making online applications cheaper is that it is more efficient and easier for staff to take care of the paperwork this way.
Though I have heard that they are still trying to work out the kinks on the online application and renewal process, I suggest that you apply ahead of time. You have a three-month period before your visa ends where you can start applying.
If you don’t already have a My Number Card, I suggest that you apply for one soon.
From June 2026, there has already been a new type of residence card where your My Number is also included with it. The goal is to encourage more foreign residents to get the card and use it.
This will also help with a more digital government administration, which in turn will make things like identification and information related to public services easier for government agencies to manage.
I know that a sudden price increase and all of these changes can give us whiplash as we try to navigate our lives here in Japan.
For many people, I know this will cause a lot of stress. But if I can make one suggestion, I would say that you should just continue as you have been doing.
That means:
– Paying your taxes and social insurance
– Keeping your paperwork up to date
– Doing activities within your status of residence
My biggest suggestion is to also carefully watch what you consume on SNS, like TikTok, Facebook, and Reddit.
It’s important to keep up to date, but not at the expense of your mental health and additional stress.
Understandably, we live in quite unpredictable times where you may be questioning your role in Japan.
I am here to tell you that you do have a role and a place in Japan. Even though there is fear-mongering, the best thing we can do for now is see how the rules change and understand that foreigners are still very much needed in Japan.
These rules affect all of us, and I truly hope that when everything boils down, we all just want to live happily together and truly enjoy the lifestyle that we have here.
I know it’s easier said than done, but please try not to stress too much if you are someone who is worried about the new changes, and please take care of yourself.
For more visa information, check out this article.
Stay tuned for more exciting content like this! Follow us on our social media platforms and check out our blog regularly to stay updated on the latest news, trends, and insider stories from Japan. Don’t miss out on future updates—sign up for our newsletter for exclusive content delivered straight to your inbox!
