Japan moves to tighten rules for foreigners

Japan is considering new regulations for foreign workers, which may affect the country's growing foreign population. The new rules would require foreign workers to stay in Japan for at least 5 years before being eligible for permanent residency. The move is part of a broader effort to reduce the number of foreign workers, particularly those from Southeast Asia. The new rules are set to take effect in April 2027, but it's unclear how the changes will impact foreign workers who have already been approved for residency or are in the process of applying. The Japanese government is also considering increasing the number of years required for foreign workers to gain permanent residency from 10 to 15 years. The proposed changes are part of a larger debate in Japan about immigration policies and how to balance the country's labor needs with concerns about the impact of foreign workers on Japanese culture and society. The new regulations are expected to affect around 900,000 foreign workers who are currently in Japan on temporary visas.