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Since October 1, 2026, renewing or changing your Japan residence status costs up to ¥75,000 instead of ¥6,000, and permanent residency costs ¥200,000. Here are the confirmed numbers, the online discount, and the hardship reduction.
Japan overhauled its permanent residency screening on October 1, 2026: a ¥200,000 fee, an above-average income test, pension records equal to 30 years of contributions, and conversational Japanese. What is confirmed, what is only reported, and how to prepare.
Japan is raising iDeCo contribution limits across the board and extending the maximum enrollment age from under-65 to under-70, with the first change already live and the rest landing January 2027. Here's what it means for foreign residents building a retirement cushion in Japan.
The US, EU, UK, Canada and Australia have all tightened customs de minimis rules in 2026. If you sell on Mercari, ship gifts home, or buy from Japan for family overseas, here's exactly what changed and what you'll now pay.
Japan's minpaku (vacation rental) system has gone through three rounds of tightening since 2025 — stricter building standards, the closure of Osaka's year-round tokku loophole, and expanding accommodation taxes. Here's what foreign owners renting out akiya and apartments need to know before listing a property.
Which Japan eSIM or SIM should you get in 2026? Unlimited data from ¥1,650 for tourists, or a real 070/080/090 Docomo number with just your passport for new residents. Prices, setup, phone check and an honest comparison.
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government runs a free, dedicated support center for foreign residents and business owners — bank accounts, paperwork, daily life questions. Here's exactly what it does and how to use it.
Japan's 20% consumption tax special exception for freelancers ends September 30, 2026. Here's what changes, the real yen cost increase, and exactly what registered freelancers need to do before the deadline.