As foreign media report a sharp rise in Japan’s residency screening fees and stricter permanent residency requirements, they also address the growing likelihood of Japan expanding its acceptance of foreign workers. The spread of fake news and changes in public opinion are also discussed.
On 1 October 2026, the Japanese government substantially raised residency screening fees for foreign nationals, increasing the permanent residency application fee from ¥10,000 to ¥200,000. New conditions were added to the requirements for obtaining permanent residency, including income above the level of Japanese households, Japanese-language proficiency and understanding of the system, raising the barrier to obtaining status.
US business magazine Fortune reported that Japan’s total population was on a declining trend as of 2025, while the number of foreign residents had reached a record level. Against the backdrop of Japan’s population decline and the challenge of securing labour, it pointed out that accepting workers from overseas could become a realistic option.
A survey by the Institute of Social Science at the University of Tokyo found that 56.3% of Japanese opposed accepting more foreign nationals. Domestic public opinion trends are notable, with anti-immigration parties winning a record number of seats in the 2026 House of Representatives election.
Regarding the spread of fake news, the sources and channels used to disseminate information that stokes opposition to immigration have been highlighted. Reports also suggest that the tightening of residency screening could affect the life planning of foreign nationals.