Japan to Raise Visa Fees for Foreign Nationals
The Japanese government has announced a significant increase in visa fees for foreign nationals, with the cost of single-entry visas rising from 3,000 yen to 15,000 yen. This change reflects the first adjustment of visa fees in 48 years, a notable shift since the last revision took place in 1978.
New Fee Structure to Take Effect in July
Effective July 1st, the fee for multiple-entry visas will escalate dramatically from 6,000 yen to 30,000 yen. This decision comes in response to inflation and changes in exchange rates since the original fees were established.
Government Aims to Balance Revenue Needs
Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi expressed the rationale behind this decision at a press conference. He emphasized that the adjustments were made following a thorough examination of various factors and stated that the government does not anticipate any immediate impact on inbound tourism.
Legislative Backing for Fee Increases
The increase is supported by a bill recently passed in the Senate, allowing the government to raise visa-related fees by as much as 30 times the current amounts. Previously, the legal limit for changing residence status or extending a stay was capped at 10,000 yen, which has now been raised to 100,000 yen. Similarly, fees for permanent residence applications will increase from 10,000 yen to 300,000 yen. Actual charges within these new limits will be determined by subsequent government decrees.
Changes in Residence Status Fees
The proposed adjustments extend to fees for altering residence status and extending stays, which will increase from their current range of 5,500 to 6,000 yen to between 10,000 and 70,000 yen. The application fee for permanent residency will rise significantly to 200,000 yen, with these new fee structures anticipated to be implemented by the end of the financial year on March 31, 2027.
Revenue to Support Foreign Population Services
The government intends to use the revenue from these increased fees to enhance administrative services for Japan’s foreign population, which reached a record high of 4.13 million at the end of 2025. This funding will also help expand Japanese language education and strengthen measures against visa overstays.
Aligning with Global Standards
Officials have justified these fee increases by asserting that Japan must align its visa and stay charges more closely with those of Western countries to create a more robust immigration system. This overhaul in fee structures is part of a broader strategy to manage the complexities of Japan’s increasing foreign demographic.
