Updates
What changed in Japan’s residence rules, in short posts with the official sources.
Each post is written only from rulebook entries that have been checked against an official page. The sources are listed at the bottom of every post, with the date we last checked them. A post says what the sources say; it does not predict or advise.
October 2026
Employment for Skill Development starts on 1 April 2027 and replaces Technical Intern Training
The new status of residence is created and the Technical Intern Training status is abolished on 1 April 2027. The agency’s Q&A sets the plan length, Japanese entry level, employer changes and transition for current trainees.
Permanent residence fee rises from 10,000 yen to 200,000 yen on 1 October 2026
Permanent residence applications received on or after 1 October 2026 pay 200,000 yen. Applications received by 30 September 2026 still pay the old 10,000 yen.
Change of status and extension fees now depend on the period granted (from 1 October 2026)
For applications received on or after 1 October 2026, the fee runs from 10,000 yen to 75,000 yen at the counter and to 65,000 yen online, plus a settlement fee online.
Permanent residence guideline revised on 1 October 2026: what applies to filings from 1 April 2027
The Immigration Services Agency revised its permanent residence guideline on 1 October 2026. The new text applies in full to filings from 1 April 2027; its income and public-burden provisions also reach some pending cases.
Permanent residence requirements and revocation grounds are written into law from 1 April 2027
Act No. 60 of 2024 takes effect on 1 April 2027, except for some provisions. The agency says the new wording writes existing practice into law and adds no new requirement.
September 2026
July 2026
June 2026
April 2026
October 2025
Information only. Not legal advice and not an official service. Check the official source and consult the Immigration Services Agency or a licensed administrative scrivener (行政書士) before you decide.