How Yen Depreciation Affects Foreign Workers’ Salaries and Visa Renewal in Japan Updated: 2025-10-20

This article explains how Japan’s weak yen influences salary evaluations during visa renewals, based on current immigration practices.

1. Impact of the weak yen on real income

When the yen weakens to over 150 per USD, foreign residents paid in yen see a drop in real income when converted into their home currency. For example, a ¥300,000 monthly salary equals about USD 2,000 instead of USD 2,700—effectively reducing spending power.

2. Immigration evaluates salaries in yen

Japan’s Immigration Services Agency assesses stability based on yen-denominated salaries. Exchange rates themselves do not cause denials, but officers increasingly focus on whether the applicant’s income ensures stable living conditions in Japan.

3. Key points during renewal review

1. Ensure consistency between employment contracts and payslips.
2. Confirm job type and hours match the visa category (e.g., Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services).
3. If supporting dependents, demonstrate sufficient income above the basic threshold.

4. Employer recommendations

• Update employment contracts and condition notices whenever salaries change.
• If below the guideline, submit evidence of bonuses or allowances.
• Provide documentation of expected salary increases if applicable.

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