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Japan Sets a New Direction on Foreign Residents, Immigration Control, and Social Integration

Japan has set out a new policy direction on foreign residents, immigration control, and social integration. The policy points to stricter residence management, closer coordination between authorities, and greater emphasis on compliance, Japanese language education, and support for integration.

2 hours ago4 min read

Japan’s 2025 Payment Services Act Amendments: What to Watch as June 2026 Approaches

Japan enacted major amendments to the Payment Services Act in June 2025, covering remittance services, cross-border payment models, crypto-assets and stablecoins. The law was promulgated on 13 June 2025 and must be implemented by 13 June 2026. The FSA is finalising implementing Cabinet Orders and Ordinances, following draft regulations released for public comment on 16 December 2025.

Payment Service Act

Jan 302 min read

My Number and Residence Card Integration in Japan: What Foreign Residents Should Know

Image from the Immigration Service Agency Japan’s Ministry of Justice and Immigration Services Agency are introducing a new Specified Residence Card system (「特定在留カード等」) as part of ongoing efforts to improve administrative convenience and streamline procedures for foreign residents. What is the Specified Residence Card? The Specified Residence Card is a new type of card that combines the functions of a Residence Card and a My Number Card into a single card . When issued, i

Immigration/Visa Matter

Jan 282 min read

Japan to Tighten FEFTA Foreign Investment Screening

Japan’s inbound foreign investment screening under FEFTA may see its most significant update since 2020. On 7 January 2025, the MOF Council released recommendations pointing to a more risk-based, streamlined review—reducing low-risk filings (including certain software/ICT deals and routine officer reappointments) while strengthening mitigation tools, indirect acquisition oversight, and post-closing powers.

Foreign Direct Investment

Jan 194 min read

📢 Newsletter: Foreign Direct Investment in Japanese IT Businesses – Key Considerations

Foreign investors acquiring shares in Japanese IT companies may need prior notification under FEFTA, especially in software, data processing, or IoT-related businesses. Activities involving third-party development or data are most likely to trigger notification.

Sep 9, 20253 min read

Navigating the New Business Manager Visa Requirements Effective 16 October 2025

On 25 August 2025, the Japanese government announced plans to tighten the requirements for the Business Manager (経営・管理) visa,.