Japan Begins Adjusting its Foreigner Policy

On November 4th, the Japanese government convened a cabinet meeting at the Prime Minister’s Official Residence regarding the acceptance of foreigners. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi instructed that a basic policy be formulated by January 2026. In addition to tightening regulations concerning illegal immigrants, restrictions on foreigners acquiring land will be strengthened.

The meeting was titled “Cabinet Meeting on Accepting Foreigners and Achieving an Orderly and Coexisting Society,” chaired by Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara. Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Norimi Onoda, who also oversees foreigner policy, attended the meeting. This meeting was established after a reorganization of the “Cabinet Meeting on Accepting and Coexisting with Foreign Talent” from the previous Ishiba Shigeru administration.

Takaichi addressed issues such as foreigners not paying social security contributions and measures against illegal immigrants, urging strict adherence to existing rules. She also demanded the effective implementation of tightened systems, including the “Foreign Driver’s License Exchange” system for foreigners holding overseas driver’s licenses to obtain Japanese driver’s licenses.

Regarding restrictions on foreigners acquiring land, Takaichi requested further countermeasures. The agreement includes regulations on land acquisition, demanding the rational use of Japan’s land.

The Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and the Japan Innovation Party (Nippon Ishin no Kai) explicitly stated in their coalition agreement that they would enact legislation to strengthen restrictions on land acquisition by foreigners during the 2026 Diet session. Following the coalition agreement, the Japanese government began formulating concrete countermeasures.

Data from the Immigration Services Agency shows that as of the end of June 2025, the number of foreigners in Japan reached approximately 3.95 million, a record high. Illegal activities by some foreigners and disputes with local residents are considered a major problem.

Policies targeting foreigners were a focal point of debate in the July House of Councillors election. Japanese political parties proposed a “Japanese first” policy, which was followed by other parties. The LDP adopted the slogan “Achieving zero illegal foreigners.” This issue also became a major topic in the LDP presidential election in September and October, with Takaichi calling for stronger coordination and command of foreigner policies.

In his policy speech on October 24, Mayor Takaichi stated, “Given the labor shortage, some sectors do indeed need foreign talent.” Therefore, while strengthening restrictions, the Japanese government will seek to improve measures for coexistence with foreigners.