Concrete Measures Against Permanent Residency Revocation Under the 2026 Immigration Act Amendment#

The amendment to the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act, enacted in June 2024, marks a significant turning point for the Permanent Residence (PR) system in Japan. With enforcement expected within two years of promulgation (likely around 2026), this amendment introduces stricter regulations that all current and prospective Permanent Residents must understand.

The most critical aspect of this legal change is the expansion of grounds for the “revocation of Permanent Resident status.” Previously, once PR status was granted, it was considered a stable status that would rarely be lost unless the holder committed a serious crime. However, under the new system, failure to fulfill obligations such as paying taxes and social insurance premiums will be explicitly listed as grounds for revocation.

This article provides an objective and detailed analysis of concrete measures that PR holders should take to protect their status, anticipating the strict enforcement scheduled for 2026.

Understanding the New “Revocation Grounds”#

To prepare effectively, it is essential to understand exactly what behaviors trigger a revocation under the amended Article 22-4 of the Immigration Control Act. The key additions and modifications are as follows:

1. Failure to Pay Taxes and Social Insurance Premiums This covers national taxes (such as income tax), local taxes (residence tax), and public health and pension insurance premiums. The law specifically targets cases where the failure to pay is “deliberate” or where the individual repeatedly fails to pay despite receiving reminders.
2. Violation of Residence Card Obligations Failure to apply for the renewal of the Residence Card’s validity period or violation of the obligation to carry the card at all times can now be grounds for revocation.
3. Imposition of Certain Criminal Penalties In addition to the existing ground of imprisonment for more than one year, the scope may be interpreted strictly regarding repeated minor offenses or specific crimes (such as theft or injury) that incur imprisonment without work, depending on the circumstances.

It is important to note that not all violations will lead to immediate deportation. A new system is being introduced where, instead of losing residency entirely, a Permanent Resident may have their status revoked and downgraded to another status, such as “Long-Term Resident.” This allows them to stay in Japan but strips them of the indefinite stay privilege. Nevertheless, the loss of PR status is a severe detriment.

Strategy 1: Automation and Full Payment of Fiscal Obligations#

The most effective and immediate countermeasure is to create a system where non-payment or late payment of taxes and social insurance premiums physically cannot occur.

Switching to Automatic Bank Transfers#

If you currently pay bills using payment slips (at convenience stores, etc.), there is always a risk of forgetting to pay or missing a deadline while traveling abroad. For Residence Tax, National Health Insurance, and National Pension premiums, it is strongly advised to switch payment methods to automatic bank withdrawal or credit card payment. This eliminates human error.

Vigilance for Company Employees#

Even employees whose taxes are deducted from their salaries (special collection) must be vigilant. During job changes, there is often a gap period where Residence Tax switches to “ordinary collection” (direct payment). Additionally, failing to file tax returns for side income is a risk factor. It is crucial to regularly check your tax payment status via platforms like “Myna Portal” to ensure no unpaid records exist.

Proper Management of Dependents#

The legitimacy of claimed dependents for tax deductions will be scrutinized. Claiming relatives living abroad as dependents without proper proof of remittance can be regarded as tax evasion. Such discrepancies will work significantly against you during any review of PR status.

Strategy 2: Strict Adherence to Administrative Procedures#

Under the new regime, minor administrative oversights can have serious consequences.

Notification of Change of Address#

By law, residents must report a change of address to the municipality within 14 days of moving. Failure to do so without a justifiable reason for more than 90 days is already a potential ground for revocation, but enforcement is expected to become much stricter. “Being too busy” will not be accepted as a valid excuse. Treat address registration as a priority legal obligation.

Management of Residence Card Validity#

Although Permanent Resident status itself is indefinite, the Residence Card is valid for seven years (to update the photo). Failing to renew the card is a violation of the Immigration Control Act. While missing the date does not immediately make one an illegal overstayer, it constitutes a breach of obligation that could contribute to revocation grounds. Use smartphone calendar alerts to remind yourself months in advance.

Strategy 3: Reaffirming Commitment to Legal Compliance#

Since the new law includes the concept of “deliberate failure” to pay public dues, the authorities will closely monitor the individual’s “intent to comply with laws.”

Repeated minor traffic violations or failure to pay traffic fines can be interpreted as a lack of intent to abide by Japanese laws. Maintaining a high level of compliance awareness in daily life—not just regarding immigration laws but all domestic laws—is fundamental to protecting your status.

Understanding Enhanced Inter-Agency Cooperation#

A crucial mechanism of the 2026 amendment is the enhanced information sharing between government agencies. Under the new system, if officials in municipalities or tax offices become aware of a Permanent Resident’s failure to fulfill obligations (such as tax delinquency), they will be required or encouraged to report this information to the Immigration Services Agency. The assumption that “Immigration won’t find out about local tax issues” will no longer hold true. The systems are being integrated to ensure transparency.

Conclusion#

The new revocation requirements under the Immigration Act amendment scheduled for 2026 should not be feared by foreign residents who live their lives earnestly and responsibly. However, the risk that administrative errors or “carelessness” could lead to severe consequences has undeniably increased.

Permanent Residency is transforming from a “final reward” into a status based on “trust maintained through continuous fulfillment of obligations.” Automating tax and insurance payments and strictly adhering to notification procedures are the most robust defenses available. Maintaining a flawless record is the only way to ensure peace of mind in Japan.