Introduction

Japan’s immigration system underwent several important changes in 2026, affecting procedures related to residence status and entry into Japan.

Understanding these changes is important not only for foreign nationals living in Japan, but also for companies employing foreign workers and individuals planning to start a business in Japan.

This article provides an easy-to-understand overview of the key changes to Japan’s immigration system in 2026.

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1. Changes to Fees for Immigration Procedures

Under the 2026 reforms, the statutory maximum fees for procedures such as changes of status of residence, extensions of period of stay, and applications for permanent residence were increased.

The specific fees are to be determined by government regulations, and a tiered fee structure based on factors such as the period of stay is being considered.

As a result, the costs associated with procedures such as the following may increase:

• Change of status of residence
• Extension of period of stay
• Application for permanent residence

Foreign nationals and employers should therefore check the latest applicable fees when preparing immigration applications.

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2. Introduction of JESTA (Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorization)

Japan has introduced JESTA (Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorization) for travelers from countries and regions that are exempt from short-term stay visa requirements.

Under this system, eligible travelers will be required to submit certain information online before traveling to Japan, allowing immigration authorities to conduct screening prior to their arrival.

The system is expected to contribute to:

• Smoother immigration procedures
• Prevention of illegal entry
• Safer and more secure border control

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3. Further Digitalization of Immigration Procedures

The Immigration Services Agency of Japan continues to expand the use of online applications and other digital immigration procedures.

Greater use of online services is expected to provide several benefits, including:

• More convenient application procedures
• Reduced waiting times
• More efficient administrative processing

Foreign nationals and employers may therefore increasingly be able to complete immigration-related procedures online.

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4. New Residence Card System

From June 2026, Japan began issuing a new format of residence card.

Foreign residents who wish to use the new system may also obtain a “Specified Residence Card” integrated with the Individual Number Card (My Number Card).

The integration of these cards is expected to make various administrative procedures more convenient for foreign residents in Japan.

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Impact on Foreign Nationals and Employers

Following these changes, foreign nationals should pay particular attention to:

• Checking the latest fees and procedural requirements in advance
• Preparing applications for extensions or changes of status well before the deadline

Companies employing foreign nationals should also be aware of:

• Changes in immigration-related costs
• Compliance with the latest immigration rules and procedures
• Proper management of employees’ residence status

Keeping up to date with immigration requirements is increasingly important for both foreign residents and their employers.

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Benefits of Consulting an Administrative Scrivener

Japan’s immigration laws, regulations, and administrative practices are regularly revised.

Understanding the latest requirements and preparing application documents in accordance with current immigration procedures are important steps toward a successful application.

At TRUST Shimizu Administrative Scrivener’s Office, we provide support for a wide range of immigration and residence procedures, including:

• Work visas
• Spouse visas
• Business Manager visas
• Specified Skilled Worker status
• Highly Skilled Professional status
• Permanent residence
• Naturalization applications

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Conclusion

The changes to Japan’s immigration system in 2026 include several important developments affecting foreign nationals and employers, such as:

• Changes to immigration procedure fees
• Introduction of JESTA
• Further digitalization of immigration procedures
• Introduction of the new residence card system

Japan’s immigration system is likely to continue evolving. Foreign nationals and companies should therefore keep up to date with the latest information and prepare for immigration procedures accordingly.

If you need assistance with a status of residence or are considering filing an immigration application, please feel free to contact TRUST Shimizu Administrative Scrivener’s Office.