Japan’s ruling Liberal Democratic Party is weighing whether to make Japanese language proficiency a requirement for foreign nationals seeking permanent residency. The proposal is part of a broader policy package on foreign residents that the party plans to submit to the government soon.
Party officials say the idea was prompted by reports of communication issues in local communities and administrative settings involving residents with limited Japanese skills. In addition to language ability, applicants may be required to complete an integration program aimed at helping them navigate daily life in Japan.
The discussion comes as Japan’s foreign population continues to grow. As of mid-2024, nearly four million foreign nationals lived in the country, with about one-quarter holding permanent resident status.
The proposal also coincides with upcoming changes to Japan’s immigration law, set to take effect in 2027, which allow permanent residency to be revoked in certain cases, such as intentional failure to pay taxes. Lawmakers are now considering whether those revocation rules should be expanded.