Japan’s 2026 Legal and Regulatory Changes: What You Need to Know

In 2026, Japan is set to introduce major reforms across immigration, employment, technology, transportation, energy, taxation, and daily life. These changes reflect the government’s response to an aging population, labor shortages, digital transformation, security concerns, and rising inbound tourism.

Here’s a detailed overview of 15 key laws and regulations expected to take effect or advance significantly in 2026.

1. Stricter Immigration and Residency Requirements

Japan will tighten screening for permanent residency and naturalization, including longer evaluation periods, stricter background checks, and closer scrutiny of tax and social insurance history.

• Who it affects: Foreign residents, long-term visa holders

• Purpose: Address public concerns while maintaining sustainable foreign labor intake

2. Higher Visa Fees and Departure Tax Adjustments

Visa renewal and application fees are set to rise. The international departure tax, currently ¥1,000, may also increase.

• Who it affects: Tourists, students, foreign workers

• Purpose: Fund tourism infrastructure and border management

3. Expanded Digital Residency Management

Immigration procedures will be integrated into Japan’s digital government platform, linking residence status with the My Number system.

• Who it affects: Foreign residents, employers

• Purpose: Reduce fraud, improve efficiency, streamline compliance

4. AI Regulation and Governance Framework

New legal guidelines will govern artificial intelligence use, focusing on transparency, data handling, and risk management.

• Who it affects: Tech companies, startups, research institutions

• Purpose: Promote innovation while mitigating AI risks

5. Revised Labor Rules for Foreign Workers

The Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) and Technical Intern Training programs will face stricter oversight, including stronger employer accountability.

• Who it affects: Foreign laborers, SMEs

• Purpose: Prevent exploitation and improve worker protection

6. Mandatory Corporate Cybersecurity Measures

Companies handling sensitive data will need robust cybersecurity controls and clear incident reporting mechanisms.

• Who it affects: Corporations, IT service providers

• Purpose: Counter cyber threats and data breaches

7. Energy Safety and Nuclear Oversight Reforms

Utilities must comply with tougher safety standards, prompted by earthquake risk awareness and past data integrity scandals.

• Who it affects: Power companies, local governments

• Purpose: Restore public trust and enhance disaster resilience

8. Transportation Safety and Infrastructure Rules

Rail operators and logistics companies will follow updated safety standards, including emergency evacuation procedures and electrical inspections.

• Who it affects: Rail companies, commuters

• Purpose: Prevent large-scale service disruptions

9. Earthquake and Disaster Preparedness Regulations

Building codes and regional disaster planning will be strengthened, especially in seismic zones.

• Who it affects: Homeowners, developers, municipalities

• Purpose: Reduce casualties and property damage

10. Tourism Conduct and Wildlife Protection Rules

New guidelines will prohibit feeding wildlife, leaving trash, or approaching dangerous animals, supported by multilingual pictograms.

• Who it affects: Tourists, local businesses

• Purpose: Protect public safety and ecosystems

11. Expanded Cashless Payment Mandates

More public services, transportation systems, and government fees will move toward cashless-only payments.

• Who it affects: Residents, tourists

• Purpose: Improve efficiency and reduce administrative costs

12. Environmental and Plastic Reduction Policies

Japan will expand single-use plastic restrictions and increase corporate reporting obligations on emissions.

• Who it affects: Retailers, manufacturers

• Purpose: Meet climate targets and sustainability goals

13. Property Purchase Review for Foreign Buyers

Foreign buyers will face stricter disclosure and review requirements, especially near sensitive locations.

• Who it affects: Foreign investors

• Purpose: Strengthen economic and national security

14. Financial Market and Insurance Oversight

Financial institutions and life insurers will face tighter consumer protection rules after recent fraud cases.

• Who it affects: Banks, insurance providers

• Purpose: Prevent misconduct and protect customers

15. Prison, Justice, and Criminal Procedure Updates

Japan will continue updating detention practices, court procedures, and enforcement safety measures.

• Who it affects: Legal system, law enforcement

• Purpose: Improve human rights compliance and safety

Why These Changes Matter

Japan’s 2026 reforms represent a shift toward structured openness—balancing global engagement with domestic concerns about security, fairness, and sustainability.

For residents, businesses, and tourists, understanding these changes early is essential for planning, compliance, and avoiding unexpected penalties.