Japan is considering a significant change to its immigration policy by introducing Japanese language proficiency as a requirement for foreign nationals seeking permanent residency (PR), officials and government sources say. The proposal, driven by the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), could become part of a new policy framework for foreign residents to be finalized early next year.
Under Japan’s current system, applicants for permanent residency must demonstrate good conduct, financial stability, and a contribution to Japan’s social and economic interests, and generally have lived in the country for at least 10 years, though exceptions exist for highly skilled workers and other special categories.
Why Language Skills Are Being Considered
The move to add Japanese language ability as a requirement comes amid concerns that some foreign residents struggle to fully integrate into local communities or navigate administrative procedures due to limited language skills. Supporters of the change argue that basic proficiency would help newcomers participate more actively in everyday life and reduce misunderstandings or administrative issues.
Under the draft plan, foreign nationals applying for permanent residency might need to demonstrate competency in Japanese at a certain level and also complete community integration programs aimed at helping them settle more smoothly into Japanese society.
The language requirement is expected to be included in a draft set of policy proposals on foreign nationals that the LDP will compile in the coming weeks and submit to the government. The changes are anticipated to coincide with broader amendments to the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act, which is due to be revised and take effect in April 2027.
While no specific Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) level has been officially proposed, some reports suggest that applicants may be required to pass recognized language tests (such as JLPT N3 or N4), though final details are still under discussion.
The foreign resident population in Japan has grown to record levels, with nearly 4 million registered residents as of mid-2025, and permanent residents making up about 23.6% of that total. The government’s consideration of stricter criteria appears partly aimed at managing this growth and ensuring long-term stability.
The proposal has sparked conversation online and among expat communities, with some welcoming the idea as a way to encourage deeper cultural integration, while others worry it could create additional hurdles for long-term residents who already face administrative challenges or busy work schedules. (Social media reactions not officially verified.)
The draft proposal will be refined and submitted to the government, which will determine the final details and timetable for implementation. If adopted, Japan could join other countries that have formal language requirements for long-term residency a shift seen as part of broader efforts to balance immigration with social cohesion.
Originally written by:Japan Times
Link to the article: https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/12/20/japan/society/japanese-proficiency-permanent-residency-requirement/
