What are the main elements of Japan's new immigration package?
The package creates a 'zero illegal stayers' deportation drive, doubles state-funded deportations, requires Japanese language proficiency for permanent residency, extends naturalization residency from 5 to 10 years, raises business visa capital requirements from ¥5 million to ¥30 million and requires a full‑time local‑
Who is Sana Takayichi and what role did she play?
Sana Takayichi is the leader of a new Japan‑first party whose campaign to close borders and deport migrants culminated in a historic supermajority victory, enabling sweeping policy shifts and potential constitutional changes.
What triggered the public backlash and protests?
A viral video of roughly 600 Muslims praying in a Fukuoka park beyond permitted space, plus contentious mosque construction proposals in Tokyo and other cities, sparked large protests and online complaint campaigns against such projects.
What are the likely domestic and international implications?
Domestically, many foreign residents and business visa holders risk losing status under stricter tests and capital rules; politically, mainstream parties are shifting right. Internationally, the move is framed as part of a wider civilizational populist trend pushing stricter border controls.
When do some new rules take effect?
Some measures include enforcement increases immediately, while specific provisions—like PR revocation tied to unpaid taxes/social insurance—are scheduled to begin in 2027.