Japan to Raise Visa Fees Fivefold from 2026, First Adjustment in 48 Years

The Japanese government has officially decided to raise visa fees for foreign nationals after approving a revision of cabinet regulations on immigration. This policy marks the first adjustment in 48 years since visa tariffs were last set in 1978. Starting 1 July 2026, the fee for a single-entry visa will increase from 3,000 yen to 15,000 yen. Meanwhile, the cost of a multiple-entry visa will rise from 6,000 yen to 30,000 yen. Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi stated the adjustment was made to reflect changes in economic conditions over nearly five decades. “The current visa fees were set in 1978. We revised them taking into account inflation and exchange rate fluctuations that have occurred since then,” Motegi said. Despite the significant tariff increase, the Japanese government believes the policy will not immediately affect foreign tourist visits to the country. “We have carefully considered various factors and do not expect this policy to have a direct impact on inbound tourism,” Motegi added. Beyond visas, Japan also raised the fee caps for various other immigration services. Previously, the maximum fee for changing residence status or extending the period of stay was set at 10,000 yen. After the revision, that cap rises to 100,000 yen. For permanent residence permit applications, the fee cap, originally 10,000 yen, increases to 300,000 yen. The government also proposed raising fees for changes of residence status and extensions of stay from the range of 5,500-6,000 yen to 10,000-70,000 yen. The fee for permanent residence applications is planned to rise from 10,000 yen to 200,000 yen. The Japanese government stated that additional revenue from the fee increases will be used to support the management of the growing number of foreign nationals. By the end of 2025, the foreign population in Japan reached a record 4.13 million people. The extra funds will also be allocated to expand Japanese language education programmes and strengthen enforcement against residence permit violations. The government argued that Japan’s immigration service fees remain relatively lower compared to several Western countries. For comparison, visa extension fees in the United States range from US$420 to US$470, while in Germany they reach 93 to 98 euros.