Japan is moving forward with plans to establish more formal guidelines for foreign nationals seeking permanent residency in Japan, as part of a broader push by the government to strengthen integration and screening standards for foreign residents.

The new policy guidelines, published on July 3, were drafted by a specially appointed Immigration Services Agency project team led by Parliamentary Vice Minister for Justice Manabu Fukuyama. The report recommends introducing a “Japanese Language and Lifestyle Learning Program” for foreign residents, with participation recommended as a mandatory requirement for permanent residency and potentially used for citizenship applications as well.

According to the proposed framework, foreigners seeking permanent residency would be expected to complete the program while also satisfying existing requirements, such as a qualifying period of residence, stable income, and tax compliance. The report also proposes using online methods to provide learning opportunities before arrival in Japan and to support continued learning after entry, so participation records can be reflected in screenings for future applicants.

Some of the possible lifestyle programs being discussed include practical guidance on everyday life such as garbage sorting rules, community etiquette, disaster preparedness, and administrative procedures. While many Western countries already operate national integration programmes for immigrants, Japan has so far lacked a comprehensive government-led system, leaving much of the responsibility to local governments and employers.