PerlOnJava

Perl 5 on the JVM — single jar, batteries included

PerlOnJava compiles Perl to JVM bytecode, so many existing Perl scripts can run on any platform with a JVM and use supported Java-backed libraries. Compatibility is substantial but not complete; check the feature matrix and bundled-module list before relying on a particular language feature or CPAN module. One jar file runs on Linux, macOS, and Windows — just add Java 24+. PerlOnJava is an independent project, not part of the Perl core distribution.

Project status: PerlOnJava is actively developed and is now in its compatibility and performance phase. The broad language implementation is in place; current work closes the remaining Perl compatibility gaps, expands CPAN coverage, and improves CPU and memory performance. See the current status and priorities.

Compatibility milestone (2026-10-03): all **575 selected imported Perl core…