The Japanese government has compiled a set of basic policies on foreign nationals, including stricter requirements for obtaining Japanese nationality and measures to counter overtourism.
The package was drawn up at a meeting of relevant Cabinet ministers on Friday. It calls for creating a society in which Japanese and foreign nationals can live safely and securely and prosper together under Japanese laws and rules.
In addition to introducing tougher requirements for citizenship, the government plans to launch a new program for foreign residents to learn the Japanese language and rules. Officials will consider using participants’ level of understanding as a factor in screening their residency status.
Foreign visitors with unpaid medical bills in Japan will face tougher scrutiny. The government already shares certain information on payments in arrears with immigration authorities. It now plans to provide information on smaller unpaid bills provided by medical institutions.
The government also plans to keep track of the nationalities of new residents in public housing. Measures against overtourism will include encouraging visits to a wider range of destinations outside major tourist spots.
Regarding real estate, a survey will be conducted on short-term transactions involving new condominiums in major cities as well as purchases of such properties by overseas buyers. The government will also consider nationalizing remote islands whose owners are unknown.
As for regulations on real estate purchases by foreign nationals, officials plan to compile a framework by the summer after studying examples from other countries.
The minister in charge of policies on foreign nationals, Onoda Kimi, told reporters that the package sums up the challenges that have so far come to light. She said it is vital for the government to update the public on the progress achieved, as well as on additional issues that arise, in order to deliver safety and peace of mind.
She said her office, serving as the command center, will cooperate with relevant ministries and agencies and steadily implement the measures that are included in the package.
AloJapan.com