Japan may require Japanese language proficiency for permanent residency

Japan is considering adding Japanese language proficiency as a requirement for permanent residency, as the government prepares for a rise in foreign residents seeking long-term stay. According to a report by The Mainichi, the proposal is expected to be included in new residency rules being drafted by a panel of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party and could take effect from April 2027, when amendments to the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act come into force.

As per The Mainichi report, according to sources, the reform aims to tighten oversight of permanent residents as their numbers continue to grow. The revised law already allows authorities to revoke permanent residency if holders intentionally fail to meet public obligations such as paying taxes. The government is now reviewing whether language ability should become part of eligibility criteria.

According to data from the Immigration Services Agency shows that Japan had a record 3.96 million foreign residents as of the end of June. Permanent residents made up the largest group, numbering around 930,000, or 23.6% of the total. At present, applicants must generally live in Japan for at least 10 years and demonstrate financial stability.


Alongside residency rules, the government is reviewing regulations for international students working part time, the Mainichi reported. Students are currently allowed to work up to 28 hours a week outside their designated status with immigration permission. Authorities are considering a shift to screening that evaluates academic performance and other factors before granting work permission, rather than approving it automatically upon arrival.

The government is also looking into stricter monitoring of companies and staffing agencies after cases emerged of foreigners with visas for engineers or specialists being sent to perform unskilled labour, which is not permitted under their residency status.