Japan Immigration News

(Japan Times)Japan says it will crack down harder on illegal overstaying

Release Date: 2026-05-22
Media: Japan Times
Summary: Japan’s Immigration Services Agency (ISA) announced stronger measures under its “Zero Plan” to eliminate unlawful foreign residents. The revised policy includes tougher crackdowns on illegal employment, enhanced cyber patrols targeting social media posts about forged residence cards and illegal work, and the creation of a dedicated enforcement unit. The government will also continue measures such as faster refugee screenings and digitalized immigration procedures.

The plan also increases penalties for employers and brokers involved in illegal employment. From 2027, penalties will rise to up to five years in prison or a ¥5 million fine. The policy comes as the number of known overstayers has decreased to about 68,000, though many people subject to deportation procedures were found to have worked illegally.
Tags: Illegal Work,Illegal Stay

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