PR applicants will be assessed on Japan's rules and systems
ISA will check PR applicants' understanding of Japan's rules and systems, mainly against its Guidebook on Living and Working. It hasn't said how yet.
The guidebook (生活・就労ガイドブック) covers taxes, insurance, pensions and everyday procedures. ISA’s Commissioner will decide how applicants are checked on it. A poor understanding, or no willingness to learn, counts against an application.
It’s free on ISA’s site in Japanese and many other languages, and so far it’s the only material ISA has pointed to.
The Japanese-language factor has exemptions, including for Highly Skilled Professionals. This one has none, so as written it applies to every route.
Not announced yet
Whether it’s a test, an interview or something else. ISA says it will settle the method before the rule starts in April 2027. It also says a programme for learning Japanese and Japan’s rules is still being designed.
Sources
- 永住許可に関するガイドライン（令和８年１０月１日改定）
Immigration Services Agency · Japanese · official source
- 生活・就労ガイドブック
Immigration Services Agency · Japanese · official source
- 永住許可に関するガイドライン案改定に係る意見募集の結果について（別紙）
Immigration Services Agency · Japanese · official source
This is information about published rules, not legal advice, and not a decision about your case. ISA decides each application on its own facts. Check with ISA (0570-013904) or a licensed gyoseishoshi before acting. Spotted an error? Tell us