Japan revised its permanent residence guidelines on October 1, 2026. Learn when the new rules apply, which pending applications are affected, and how household income, Japanese proficiency, pensions and a three-year period of stay are assessed.
Not every foreign national under Japan’s Employment for Skill Development Program must complete the same 100-hour Japanese course. This guide separates the A1 requirement before work from A2 learning during the three-year period and explains providers, online classes, costs, application documents and records.
Tommy’s Legal Service now accepts Stripe Konbini payment in eligible cases. Foreign residents in Japan who do not have a Japanese bank account or credit card may be able to pay consultation fees in cash at a supported convenience store.
The four-month period under Japan’s Business Manager status still exists. This guide explains pre-incorporation applications, residence cards, bank accounts, the revised 2025 criteria, renewals, and startup visa alternatives.
We Submitted Public Comments on Japan’s Proposed Immigration Fee Revision | PR Fee, Family Burden and Reductions
On August 2, 2026, Tommy’s Legal Service submitted two public comments on Japan’s proposed immigration fee revision and draft fee-reduction guidelines. We explain our proposals concerning the JPY 200,000 permanent residence fee, cumulative family costs, predictability, payment methods and access to reductions. The proposals have not yet been finalized.