Japan has announced a considerable increase in Permanent Residency fees, from 10,000 yen to 200,000 yen. The government cites this move as a measure to balance the economic impacts of an aging population and a shrinking labor force. Critics, however, claim it could deter potential immigrants despite the country's need for them. The increase is set to affect both skilled workers and unskilled laborers, including those filling roles in the elder care sector.

Japan's aging population and low birthrate have led the government to encourage immigration to meet labor demands. The hefty increase in the Permanent Residency fee can bring more economic resources but potentially discourage the immigrant population that Japan depends upon. This measure has been met with mixed reactions, some seeing it as necessary due to the economic challenges, and others viewing it as a deterrent to necessary immigration.

In contrast, many countries in the US and EU do not have such high residency fees, and those that do often scale them based on income or the economic conditions of the person's home country. They also have more comprehensive policies for attracting labor in sectors with shortages.