Japan overhauled permanent residency, multiplying the fee by twenty and tightening who can qualify.

The rules were announced this week for foreign nationals who want long-term status.

Lawmakers connected the change to public anxiety about a larger foreign-resident population.

The article says paths that had been fairly steady for workers and families are now harder.

Officials want stricter compliance and a much larger payment from applicants.

Sanae Takaichi is cited as championing the immigration changes to broaden political backing.

Authorities have also made background checks and qualifying tests tougher.

Analysts are watching whether the higher cost hurts hiring in fields that already cannot fill jobs.

Read the full story on Japan’s permanent-residency fee jump and the new eligibility rules.