Japan Immigration News

Japan’s New Visa Rules Are Forcing Tokyo’s Immigrant-Run Restaurants to Close

Release Date: 2026-04-30
Media: Unseen Japan
Summary: The article criticizes Japan’s recent immigration reforms, arguing that they are making life more difficult for foreigners rather than addressing actual misconduct. A major focus is the tightening of the Business Manager visa rules introduced in October 2025.

Previously, foreign entrepreneurs could obtain the visa with a capital investment of around ¥5 million. Under the new rules, applicants must now invest ¥30 million, hire at least one full-time employee, and ensure that either the owner or employee has Japanese proficiency at JLPT N2 level or higher. Supporters claim the reform closes loopholes and prevents abuse of the visa system, a position strongly backed by the right-wing Sanseitō party.

However, the article argues that the new requirements are devastating for small foreign-owned businesses, especially restaurants. Areas such as Tokyo’s “Little India” in Nishi-Kasai may face widespread closures because many owners cannot meet the new capital requirement. Some businesses, despite being profitable, have already decided to close due to uncertainty about future visa renewals.

The reforms are also discouraging foreign investment. Immigration consultants report a sharp drop in inquiries from potential investors, and surveys show many foreign-run companies expect negative impacts, with some considering leaving Japan entirely.

The article further argues that Japan’s broader immigration tightening—including higher visa fees and stricter language requirements—is politically motivated and aimed at appealing to conservative and anti-immigration voters. Yet these policies may worsen Japan’s severe labor shortages caused by population decline.

Industries such as elderly care, transportation, and food service increasingly rely on foreign workers. The suspension of new Specialized Skilled Worker applications for the restaurant sector in 2026 has already caused concern among restaurant chains that depend heavily on foreign labor.

The author concludes that Japan cannot realistically sustain its economy without foreign workers in the long term. However, by weakening immigrant communities and making Japan less attractive to foreigners, the country risks driving away the very people it increasingly needs.
Tags: Business Manager

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