Japan Immigration News

(Japan Times)Japan unveils new immigration plan focused on tighter regulations

Release Date: 2026-07-31
Media: Japan Times
Summary: Japan has adopted a new five-year basic plan for immigration control and residency management to strengthen enforcement while improving support for foreign residents. Key measures include introducing the JESTA electronic travel authorization system in fiscal 2028, expanding the use of digital technology and My Number data for immigration management, reviewing permanent residency requirements, and increasing application fees and immigration staffing.

The plan also promotes Japanese language and civic education, stronger consultation services, and closer cooperation between national and local governments. At the same time, it expands the government's "Zero Illegal Foreign Residents Plan" through faster deportations, tougher enforcement, and digital tools to detect illegal overstayers. Refugee processing will also be accelerated, with stronger measures against fraudulent applications. During the public consultation, opinions were divided between calls for stricter immigration controls and concerns over the plan's human rights implications.
Tags: Immigration Policy

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