Japan plans March 2027 launch of registration scheme for ties to other communities

Japan's Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications plans to launch a Furusato Jumin (ふるさと住民) registration scheme in March 2027, according to reports published on October 10. Local governments would register people who maintain continuing involvement with a community outside their place of residence. The aim is to increase registrations and visits, help revitalise communities and secure participants for local activities. [ 1 , 2 , 3 ]

A ministry survey covering all 1,788 local governments found that 1,327, or 74%, were positive about participating. Some local governments that were reluctant to join expressed concern that the scheme would increase their administrative and financial burdens. Participation is voluntary. The ministry plans to encourage participation through measures including support for the scheme's operating costs, according to the reports. [ 1 , 2 , 3 ]

Two registration categories are planned. Premium registration will cover people who undertake local activities such as volunteering at least three times a year, while basic registration will have no requirements. Under premium registration, local governments may decide to subsidise accommodation and transport expenses when registrants visit the area. The scheme also aims to encourage people to maintain living bases in both a city and a rural area. [ 2 , 3 ]

The previous Ishiba administration announced the creation of the scheme, the reports said. Tokyo Shimbun and Yahoo! News Japan reported that the ministry conducted its questionnaire in June and July, covering 47 prefectures and 1,741 cities, wards, towns and villages. The survey found positive intentions to participate from 1,327 local governments. The reports described these responses as favourable intentions rather than mandatory participation. [ 1 , 2 , 3 ]