With Japan’s national election scheduled for July 20, real estate ownership by foreigners is once again making headlines. Several political parties are raising serious concerns—not only about land acquisition by non-citizens and foreign corporations, but also about immigration policies and visa regulations that could affect how long and how freely foreign nationals can stay, invest, and live in Japan.
A Look Back: “外国人土地法” — Japan’s Forgotten Foreign Land Ownership Law
Did you know Japan once had a law that restricted foreigners from owning land?
In 1925, the Foreign Land Ownership Act (外国人土地法) was enacted to limit land purchases by foreigners, particularly from countries that restricted Japanese nationals from buying land. But since WWII, this law has not been enforced, and Japan has allowed foreigners to buy property without major restrictions—a policy that has attracted global investors and long-term residents.
What’s Changing Now?
Amid rising concerns around national security, housing affordability, and foreign influence, some political parties are now pushing for tighter laws, including:
Limitations on land ownership near military bases or critical infrastructure
Restrictions for foreign companies and foreign nationals in acquiring large land areas
Stricter visa renewal and residency rules, especially for investors and remote workers
Calls for reforming the immigration law to “protect national interests”
While nothing has officially changed yet, the political climate is shifting, and these discussions could result in new laws in the near future—affecting both individual foreign residents and international real estate investors.
What Should You Do Now?
If you’ve been thinking about buying property in Japan—either as a home, investment, or to secure long-term residency—now may be the smartest time to take action.
I offer real estate brokerage services specifically tailored for foreign nationals, with:
Bilingual support (English & Japanese)
Guidance through the legal process, taxes, and financing options
Expertise in helping foreign clients purchase, sell, and manage Japanese properties
Honest advice on what’s possible—and what’s not—in this changing legal environment
Feel free to reach out for consultation or explore
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