LDP Proposal Revoking Permanent Residency for Tax Non-Paying Foreigners

On February 26, Jiji Press reported that the government has solidified its policy to submit a bill to amend the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act to allow for the revocation of permanent residency for foreigners with resident status who fail to pay taxes or social insurance premiums. This decision was revealed by sources by February 25.

In the future, while the government plans to establish a system for accepting foreign workers through nurturing employment, it seems that the purpose is to take strict measures against foreign nationals who fail to pay taxes.

“I believe it’s an excellent amendment proposal, representing what the Immigration Control Act should be originally.”

“If you choose to live in Japan under the protection of Japan, it’s only natural to bear the same obligations as Japanese citizens.”

Many voices generally express agreement.

For foreigners, since they don’t have the right to vote, run for office, or become public servants, they cannot participate in elections. However, they are eligible for social security benefits. Therefore, they can receive medical insurance coverage and, in some cases, even receive welfare benefits.

“Some foreigners perceive Japan as a paradise where they can receive welfare benefits. In 2011, there was an outrageous case in Osaka where 29 newly arrived Chinese individuals applied for welfare benefits. If they come to Japan without any intention of working from the beginning, thinking they can get free money at a level higher than their home country’s salary, it’s unforgivable.

It’s understandable that there’s a public sentiment to deport those found to be fraudulently receiving benefits. Especially in an aging society where social security expenses are already tight, do we really need to support tax-dodging foreigners with our tax money through Japan’s safety net? In severe cases, we want to see strict measures taken.” (National newspaper journalist)

While voices of support gather, the timing of tax filing also sensitizes the public to tax non-payment. Especially with the revelation of the secret funds incident involving factions of the Liberal Democratic Party, there is a harsh scrutiny directed towards the corrupt politicians.

“There are many people who illegally receive kickbacks but fail to pay taxes. These individuals are not impoverished, and intentionally neglecting their tax obligations to the nation. Wouldn’t it be better for Japan if they were asked to leave?”

When questioned in the Diet about whether this constitutes tax evasion, Finance Minister Suzuki responded with, 

“Each lawmaker should make their own judgment and pay taxes accordingly.” 

This sparked a major controversy.

“So then, let the citizens also decide for themselves and pay taxes accordingly.”

“#BoycottTaxFiling”

 

The words “then let the people pay their taxes on their own judgment” and “boycott tax returns” were spread on social networking sites.

 

The lawmakers did not reveal how they used the money, and it is unclear whether they used it for political activities.

Some of the legislators have said that they have not used the money, and there is a growing outcry that they should pay taxes on the money as income.

Both foreigners who “pay no taxes” and behave badly, and “slush fund lawmakers” who pay taxes only to the people and are hardly accountable themselves, should disappear from Japan. –I wish both of them would leave Japan.