Japan moves to tighten rules for foreigners, throwing futures into doubt

The Japanese government is set to tighten requirements for permanent residency, including a higher income threshold, Japanese language proficiency, and a pension fund equivalent to 30 years of payouts. These phased-in rules, starting October 1, have caused concern among long-term residents like Abdul, a Bangladeshi tech engineer, who is now considering opportunities outside Japan. The Immigration Services Agency emphasizes the need for foreigners to live independently and stably. Long-term residents such as Sarah Nelkin fear they may no longer qualify under these new regulations, risking their future in Japan.