Japan Immigration News

(DW)Japan needs more foreign workers, but many feel unwelcome

Release Date: 2026-06-26
Media: DW
Summary: Japan is introducing significantly higher immigration fees and stricter residency rules, raising concerns among many foreign workers who have built their lives in the country.

A Nepali couple, **Srijana and Spandan Sunar**, say the planned increase in visa extension fees—from **¥10,000 to up to ¥100,000**—and the rise in permanent residency application fees—from **¥10,000 to up to ¥300,000**—will make it much harder for them to remain in Japan, despite paying taxes and following the law. They also feel their job mobility remains restricted after years of working in Japan.

The policy changes come as Japan faces a severe demographic decline. While the Japanese population continues to shrink, the number of foreign residents has grown to over **4.1 million**, helping offset labor shortages. Immigration expert **Toshihiro Menju** argues that foreign workers have become indispensable to Japan's economy and public services.

The government, led by Prime Minister **Sanae Takaichi**, says the tougher measures are intended to prevent abuse of the immigration system while supporting law-abiding foreign residents. New policies include longer residency requirements for naturalization and stricter Japanese language standards for permanent residency.

However, some highly skilled foreign professionals, such as Thai researcher **Yanika Roongpairoj**, say the changes have made them reconsider their long-term future in Japan.

The stricter policies reflect growing public concern about immigration. Opinion polls show increasing unease over the rising number of foreigners, with some Japanese citizens expressing concerns about differences in social norms and cultural integration. At the same time, Asian workers report feeling greater pressure to assimilate into Japanese society.

The rise of the nationalist **Sanseito** party has amplified these concerns by promoting a "Japanese First" agenda. Critics argue that, although the government rejects xenophobia, its policies have become increasingly restrictive toward foreign residents.

Despite these challenges, many foreign workers believe they have few alternatives. The Sunars argue that creating a more welcoming environment would ultimately benefit Japan by helping retain the workers the country increasingly depends upon.
Tags: Immigration Policy

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