Japan Immigration News

Japan May Require Japanese Language Test for Permanent Residency

Release Date: 2025-12-22
Media: Unseen Japan
Summary: Japan’s government under Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae is considering tightening requirements for permanent residency amid rising public concern over immigration. A key proposal would introduce a Japanese-language requirement for permanent residence, likely based on the JLPT, potentially at N2 level, though no official benchmark has been confirmed. Another proposed condition would require applicants to complete courses on Japanese culture, customs, and etiquette before approval.

Japan currently has about 3.96 million foreign residents, a record high and a 5% year-on-year increase. Of these, roughly 932,000 (23%) hold permanent residency, which carries no work restrictions and no need for renewal, though permanent residents still make up only about 0.7% of Japan’s total population. Growing nationalist sentiment, media reports of municipalities exceeding 10% foreign residents, and concerns over foreign real-estate ownership have fueled calls for stricter integration requirements.

These proposals are part of broader reforms that may also make naturalization harder. At present, foreigners can apply for Japanese citizenship after five years, compared with ten years for permanent residency. In 2024, Japan approved 8,863 out of 12,248 citizenship applications.

While language requirements are common internationally—many European countries already require proof of language ability—the impact in Japan is uncertain. Most permanent residents likely already have functional Japanese, but spouse-dependent visa holders may be most affected, as they may have fewer incentives or opportunities to learn the language. This group represents about 5.2% of visa holders.

The ruling Liberal Democratic Party is expected to submit its recommendations to the prime minister in January 2026, with possible approval later that month.
Tags: Japanese Language

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