Japan

News and features

Financial markets rattled by fresh trade uncertainty

Fresh trade chaos interrupts the Footsie’s record run as President Trump threatens 15% blanket global tariffs. Wall Street set to open lower as traders eye stagflation threats. Meanwhile Gold prices move upward again as tense geopolitics and trade turmoil collide. Reports Susannah Streeter, Chief Investment Strategist at Wealth Club.

UK Ranks 6th Globally in AI Adoption

Asia Pacific commercial real estate investment reaches USD 40.3 billion in Q4 2025

A Growing Passport Divide Reshapes Global Mobility in 2026

Cigna Healthcare launches culturally aligned medical support for Japanese employees in Europe

US Passport Power Falls to Historic Low

For the first time since the Henley Passport Index was created 20 years ago, the United States is no longer ranked amongst the world’s Top 10 most powerful passports.

How the financial services industry is responding to global change

The global finance landscape is shifting due to geopolitical conflict, trade wars, changes of government, new legislation and a strategy towards investment in emerging economies. Marianne Curphey identifies some trends.

Tracking global wealth migration

The relocation of high net worth individuals can have a significant impact on the economic growth of host countries, from the taxes they contribute to the jobs their businesses create. David Sapsted looks at some recent trends.

The World’s Wealthiest Cities in 2024

Read the annual report by Henley & Partners and New World Health to discover the world's Top 50 wealthiest cities.

Children in the classroom examining the globe with magnifying glass

New Schools Index ranks 125 best schools in the world

Carfax Education has published its latest annual Schools Index, ranking international private schools on academic results, ethos and reputation.

One pound coin on fluctuating graph. Rate of the pound sterling

UK 'most expensive' for employing expat staff

For the second year running, the UK has been ranked as the most expensive country in the world for companies to relocate staff, according to an annual survey from global mobility consultancy ECA International.

Mexico reigns supreme in expat eyes

Mexico - a longtime favourite of the globally mobile workforce - has been ranked as the world's best destination for expats in this year's survey by InterNations.

Education in Japan

Accession of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland to the Comprehensive and Progressive Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), a free trade agreement of 11 members including Japan, Plus the pandemic and disruption to supply chains have highlighted the country as an assignment destination.

New York now world's costliest city for expats

New York has replaced Hong Kong as the most expensive city in the world for expats to live in, according to this year's global survey by ECA International.

Launching new frontiers in global mobility and international talent management

Elon Musk’s Space X project divides opinion. But how can its spectacular success – and recent failure – take humanity forward; and at a time when for many of us the focus is much closer to home? Innovation, leadership, resilience and collaboration are all in play as we strive for the next frontier, whatever our sector or profession.

Expats enthuse about settling in Gulf states

Gulf states occupy five of the top ten places in the world where expatriates find it easiest to settle, according to a new index from InterNations.

Spanish city rated best for expats

Valencia has been adjudged the best city in the world to live in for expatriate workers after almost 12,000 expats around the globe expressed their opinions in the latest InterNations survey.

Next government must focus on FTAs, says CBI

Global supply chains to British industry could be put at risk unless the UK succeeds in reaching more post-Brexit trade deals, the head of the nation's largest business organisation has warned.

India-UK trade deal ‘ready by autumn’

A trade deal between India and the UK is on track to be concluded by the autumn, according to New Delhi's commerce minister.

UK eyes pacific trade deal this year

International Trade Secretary Anne-Marie Trevelyan believes the UK's application to join the 11-nation CPTPP trade bloc (Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership) could be approved before the end of this year.

New graduate visas ’to fill skills gap’

A simplified but “highly selective” visa scheme to attract overseas graduates to the UK, could help fill the nation's skills gap, according to a leading immigration lawyer.

Creative people standing in the office and working together on computer. Blurred motion.

Fintech growth spurs 'exceptional' 182% increase in tech roles

A new report from recruitment firm Robert Walters offers a snapshot of tech talent mobility in eight major hubs. As Covid-19 restrictions lift, 'significant migration of talent' is likely.

International Trade Secretary Anne-Marie Trevelyan

India Trans-Pacific top UK trade agenda

The UK government has put deals with India and the 11-nation CPTPP (Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership) at the top of its trade agenda this year, a global conference of financial services chiefs has been told.

and touching virtual world with connection network. Global data information and technology exchange.

Reimagining work around the world: new survey

With the workplace in flux, EY’s ‘2022 Work Reimagined Survey’ shows what matters to employees. Leaders can lean into the opportunities and build workplaces that will attract, recruit and retain people.

Brexit moved to EU much lower than expected

Far fewer jobs in financial services based in the UK have relocated to the European Union than originally anticipated in the wake of the Brexit referendum almost six years ago, according to the latest survey.

Climate change tops global investors’ agenda

Climate change is becoming of fast-growing importance to business decisions being made by many of the world's largest institutional investors, according to a new survey.

$Watch the education & schools\' webinar playbacks$

School insights for parents around the world

Parents need as much information as possible to make decisions about the future and their children’s education during the admissions cycle. We have produced a series of high impact webinars which answer questions on curriculum, admissions, early learning, learning differences, virtual schools and transition care, explains Fiona Murchie.

Introduction to the International Education & Schools’ Fair

Welcome to the Great International Education & Schools' Fair.

Creating Happy Endings – Building on your Foreign Work Experiences

Working abroad can have disastrous consequences. Yet, international work should benefit both individuals and organisations after repatriation. How can you ensure a happy ending for yourself?

An illustration of people standing below a world map

Global Mobility Refined

Grasping the Opportunities that the Shift from “Before COVID” (BC) to “After Despair” (AD) can bring.

Man with suitcase walks across a piazza with the Eiffel Tower in the background. In Paris

Working from anywhere – the hidden implications of cross-border and remote working

A recent webinar hosted by Santa Fe Relocation set out the advantages and potential disadvantages of employees working in destinations other than their contractual employment location. Dr Sue Shortland reports.

Enter the 2022 Think Global People and Relocate Awards

Think Global People Awards: Global Mobility, Leadership and Education with a spotlight on wellbeing

Fiona Murchie explains how the Think Global People Awards have evolved for 2022 to showcase the inspiring people working across global mobility, global leadership and education who are delivering excellence and innovation.

Remote working: Are the positives of global mobility unravelling?

A series of reports from companies such as KPMG, Mercer, and HSBC present varying approaches to the increase of home working as a result of the pandemic. David Sapsted explores the global mobility dimension.

Crossing the pond: Where is the growth?

With a number of free-trade deals under discussion, new horizons are opening up for global expansion and people mobility. David Sapsted explores the UK’s potential future trading partnerships.

Expat pay falls in many asian locations

Japan has overtaken the UK as the world's most expensive location in which to base expatriate workers, according to a new report.

Education

Country Guide to Schools in Japan

Education in Japan

St Michael's International School

Visible Wellbeing, Visible Growth at Rugby School Japan

Rugby School Japan Residential Summer Camp 2025

Find out what happended at Rugby School Japan's residential Summer Camp 2025

Education Solutions for the Internationally Mobile Family

In an increasingly connected world, more families are finding themselves on the move – whether chasing professional opportunities, embracing new cultural experiences, or navigating global uncertainty. For many of these globally mobile households, frequent relocations have become a way of life. While this nomadic lifestyle offers rich rewards, it also brings a unique set of challenges, especially when it comes to providing children with continuity, stability, and a sense of belonging.

Rugby School Japan Residential Summer Camp 2025

Final Days to Register for RSJ Residential Summer Camp

Join the Rugby School Japan Residential Tennis Camp – Summer 2025!

Rugby School Japan will be hosting its Residential Tennis Camp — an exciting opportunity for boys and girls aged 11 to 18 to enjoy high-level tennis training in a supportive, fun, and truly international environment.

Rugby School Japan open day

On Saturday, 18th January from 9 to 11.30am, Rugby School Japan will be opening its doors to prospective families who are considering their son or daughter's secondary education (from age 11-18).

Rugby School Japan: A groundbreaking international school

Tony Darby, Principal of Rugby School of Japan and Fiona Murchie discussed the unique blend of British boarding school culture and Japanese education at Rugby School Japan.

Rugby School Japan

Rugby School Japan: Bridging British Tradition with Japanese Innovation

Dandelion Montessori School

Established in 2023, Dandelion Montessori School is a boutique, international Montessori school, located in the Minato ward of Tokyo, catering to students from 3 to 6 years old (Pre-school – Kindergarten/Year 1) .

New Schools Index ranks 125 best schools in the world

Carfax Education has published its latest annual Schools Index, ranking international private schools on academic results, ethos and reputation.

UK 'most expensive' for employing expat staff

Expats enthuse about settling in Gulf states

Gulf states occupy five of the top ten places in the world where expatriates find it easiest to settle, according to a new index from InterNations.

Spanish city rated best for expats

Valencia has been adjudged the best city in the world to live in for expatriate workers after almost 12,000 expats around the globe expressed their opinions in the latest InterNations survey.

New graduate visas ’to fill skills gap’

A simplified but “highly selective” visa scheme to attract overseas graduates to the UK, could help fill the nation's skills gap, according to a leading immigration lawyer.

$Watch the education & schools\' webinar playbacks$

School insights for parents around the world

Introduction to the International Education & Schools’ Fair

Welcome to the Great International Education & Schools' Fair.

Think Global People Awards: Global Mobility, Leadership and Education with a spotlight on wellbeing

The 2021 Relocate and Think Global People Awards Supplement - Out Now

Behind the scenes and winners revealed. Plus, shaping the future and how you can get involved.

The benefits of a bilingual education for children and opportunities for life

Discover the huge advantages of a bilingual or multilingual education for children of all ages to help parents make important school choices.

Watch the replay: Introduction to Great International Education & Schools’ Fair

Welcome to the playback of the Introductory Session for the Great International Education & Schools' Fair.

Japan

Coronavirus and education: what is the global impact on students, families and communities?

UNESCO says the number of students missing school globally due to COVID-19 is “unparalleled”, impacting almost 290 million worldwide.

How to make the most of an international school Open Day

Everything prospective parents, employers and relocation professionals need to know when researching and looking around global schools.

Education and schools in Japan

With a high number of Fortune Global 500 companies and a standard of living to rival the UK’s, Japan is the destination of choice for many relocating families. We take a look at how international schools are meeting the needs of both locals and expatriates there.

Guide to International Education and Schools 2019/20

New International Education Guide – out now!

The fourth edition of our highly popular Guide to International Education & Schools is available now - online and in both print and digital format. Read it online or get your digital copy today!

The-British-School-of-Warsaw-International-Guide-large2

Letting off STEAM: international schools spark the imagination

With STEM subjects of increasing importance in a competitive world, we take a look at the initiatives in international schools around the world that are fuelling student ambition for technical careers.

A photo of the Aurora Borealis illustrating the Relocate Global weekly roundup, which features information on Finland

Relocate Global weekly news roundup: 27 September

This week's news roundup includes the Finland, US and UK economic growth rankings, 2019 higher education rankings, unusual business practices around the world, Goldman Sachs' UK retail banking debut, and the latest on Brexit.

Guide to International Education & Schools 2018 2019

The Guide to International Education & Schools 2018/19 – Out Now!

The third edition of our highly popular Guide to International Education & Schools is available now in both print and digital format – get your copy today!

Kung Fu at Concordia International School Shanghai

Growing demand for international schools in Europe and Asia

A rapidly shifting international schools market could lead to more choice for relocating families in the long run.

Supporting relocating families in the APAC region

An international relocation can be a daunting experience, but schools in Asia are well placed to offer support and advice to aid families in quickly finding their feet.

Education and schools in Japan

With a high standard of living, Japan is the destination of choice for many relocating families. We take a look at how international schools are meeting the needs of both locals and expatriates.

Immigration

US Passport Power Falls to Historic Low

For the first time since the Henley Passport Index was created 20 years ago, the United States is no longer ranked amongst the world’s Top 10 most powerful passports.

Tracking global wealth migration

The World’s Wealthiest Cities in 2024

Mexico reigns supreme in expat eyes

Expats enthuse about settling in Gulf states

New graduate visas ’to fill skills gap’

A simplified but “highly selective” visa scheme to attract overseas graduates to the UK, could help fill the nation's skills gap, according to a leading immigration lawyer.

Future of Work Festival Sponsor: Santa Fe Relocation

Santa Fe Relocation covers the entire relocation journey: from moving, destination services and immigration to full assignment management solutions.

Creating Happy Endings – Building on your Foreign Work Experiences

Working abroad can have disastrous consequences. Yet, international work should benefit both individuals and organisations after repatriation. How can you ensure a happy ending for yourself?

Despite Covid, global mobility gets easier

International travel restrictions resulting from the pandemic are no longer hampering the opportunities for global talent mobility to most of the nations popular with expats, a new study has found.

Working from anywhere – the hidden implications of cross-border and remote working

Think Global People Awards: Global Mobility, Leadership and Education with a spotlight on wellbeing

Remote working: Are the positives of global mobility unravelling?

Prime property prices rising globally

Prime real estate markets in cities across the globe are on course to see price rises over the course of this year, according to international estate agents Astons.

Pandemic Continues to Erode Strength of Premium Passports

As the world scrambles to recover from the effects of the global health emergency, urgent questions around international travel remain: Is a return to pre-pandemic levels possible? How will it be achieved? And who will be left behind?

The 2021 Relocate and Think Global People Awards Supplement - Out Now

Behind the scenes and winners revealed. Plus, shaping the future and how you can get involved.

Mixed reaction in wake of G7 summit

The conclusion of the G7 summit on Cornwall has left business leaders and campaigners in the UK agreeing with many of the leaders' sentiments but questioning if sufficient practical steps had been agreed.

Peter Graham, Group Director of Visa & Immigration Services, Santa Fe Relocation, speaks to Fiona Murchie of Relocate Global

Peter Graham, Group Director of Visa and Immigration collected the award on his behalf and spoke to Fiona Murchie about the survey and its implications from an immigration perspective.

Indo-Pacific identified as top UK priority

The UK will "tilt" its post-Brexit focus towards the Indo-Pacific under a major foreign policy restructure unveiled in a 114-page Integrated Review published by the government in London.

The benefits of a bilingual education for children and opportunities for life

Discover the huge advantages of a bilingual or multilingual education for children of all ages to help parents make important school choices.

Cementing relations with the Asia-Pacific region at the heart of UK trade growth

'Go West, young man' used to be the exhortation. Fast forward a couple of centuries and the priority these days appears to be 'Look East, mature democracies', as youthful Asian economies begin to flex their muscles once more. David Sapsted explores UK trade deal potential in the Asia-Pacific region.

Pandemic spurs asian surge in tech development

The Covid-19 pandemic has led to a dramatic acceleration of Asian companies' deployment of data and digital innovation, according to a report from global management consultancy McKinsey & Company.

Johnston aiming to boost Indo-Pacific ties

Boosting post-Brexit trade will be high on the agenda when Prime Minister Boris Johnson travels to India next month in what Downing Street describes as his first, major bilateral visit since taking office a year ago.

Coronavirus – what steps should employers and staff take now?

What measures can be taken now in the workplace to avoid the spread of coronavirus and what travel restrictions are currently in place?

Map of the world illustrating the spread of the coronavirus

Coronavirus bulletin: travel and immigration disruption

The latest travel and immigration information about the Coronavirus, provided by immigration specialists Peregrine Immigration Management.

Immigration update: Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership

Australia, Canada, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand and Singapore entered into the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). Vietnam is expected to follow. The agreement includes provision for immigration regulations that may result in new programs or changes for business visitors, investors and skilled workers from CPTPP member countries.

Japan opens its door to 'flood' of expats

De-population and an ageing workforce means many industries face staff shortages leading Japan's government to intervene and offer many new visas to skilled foreign workers.

Image of passport, map and customs stamp

How powerful is your passport?

The latest Henley Passport Index offers fascinating insights into geopolitical and economic progress globally. As the US and UK see their ranks drop slightly, the UAE’s has risen significantly.

Relocate Global weekly news roundup: 27 September

Japan tackles ageing workforce with new visa plans

Prime minister of Japan, Shinzo Abe, has announced the introduction of a new work permit designed to attract 500,000 people to the country by 2025 to address severe labour shortages.

Visa-free access pushes forward in Asia

Asian and Middle-Eastern countries continue to sign new cross-border agreements expanding their visa-free access for their citizens, according to the Henley Passport Index.

Visa-free access continues to increase globally

The latest Henley Passport Index has shown that despite a growing polarity in immigration discourse countries around the world continue to maintain or increase their visa free access.

Tokyo as Japan announces immigration changes

Japan implements new one-year permanent residence pathway

New immigration rules have been implemented in Japan for highly qualified foreign residents, the changes come as a result of the Japanese Prime Minister’s strategy for revitalization.

Short-and long-term accommodation

New York now world's costliest city for expats

New York has replaced Hong Kong as the most expensive city in the world for expats to live in, according to this year's global survey by ECA International.