Akira Baba Immigration Office (Certified Gyoseishoshi)

Japan Immigration in 2025: Key Changes and How to Prepare for 2026

2025 marked a clear turning point in Japan’s immigration system. While the government continued to accept foreign workers and residents, immigration screening and compliance checks became noticeably stricter.

In this article, I will briefly review the major immigration trends of 2025 and explain how foreign residents and companies should prepare for 2026 from a practical, real-world perspective.

1. The Big Picture: Japan Immigration in 2025

The key theme of 2025 can be summarized as: “Expansion of acceptance, combined with tighter management.”

• More opportunities to work and stay in Japan
• Stricter screening for renewals, changes of status, and permanent residence
• Greater emphasis on substance rather than form

2. Major Trends by Visa Category

(1) Permanent Residence & Long-Term Resident

• Unpaid taxes and social insurance became critical risk factors
• Family relationships and actual living conditions were examined more closely
• Divorce or changes in family structure triggered stricter reviews

(2) Spouse Visas (Japanese / Permanent Resident)

• Age-gap marriages and short marriage histories faced closer scrutiny
• Having children did not guarantee approval without proper explanation
• Clear relationship history became essential

(3) Work Visas (Engineer / Specialist, etc.)

• Strong alignment between job duties and academic or professional background
• More verification of the company’s actual business activities
• Job titles alone were no longer sufficient

(4) Business Manager Visa

• Greater focus on sustainability and real business performance
• Renewals required clear proof of ongoing business activity
• “Paper companies” were increasingly difficult to maintain

3. How to Prepare for Immigration in 2026

(1) Do Not Wait Until the Last Minute

Late preparation significantly limits your options. In 2026, early planning will be more important than ever.

(2) Consistency Matters More Than Perfect Documents

Immigration authorities increasingly focus on whether your documents, explanations, and real-life situation all match.

(3) Think Beyond the Next Renewal

• Will this application affect your future permanent residence?
• Are upcoming family or job changes already reflected?
• Is your long-term immigration strategy clear?

2026 Will Clearly Separate the Prepared from the Unprepared

Japan’s immigration system is no longer something you can handle reactively. Preparation, explanation, and long-term planning will define success in 2026.

Published: December 31, 2025