Japan's Visa Fee Overhaul: Extensions to Jump 10x, Permanent Residency 30x

Japan has proposed a significant increase in visa fees, aiming to manage immigration costs due to a growing foreign population. The changes include a 10x hike for visa extensions and a 30x rise for permanent residency applications. 

Proposed Changes in Visa Fees 

On March 10, 2026, Japan's Cabinet approved a Bill to amend the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act. This amendment aims to raise the statutory cap on immigration-related fees for the first time since 1982.  

The legal ceiling for changing residence status or extending the period of stay could increase to ¥1,00,000 from the current ¥10,000. Similarly, the cap for permanent residency applications could rise to ¥3,00,000 from ¥10,000. 

While the actual fees will be determined later, the government is considering raising charges to about ¥70,000 for visa status changes or extensions and around ¥2,00,000 for permanent residence applications. Currently, applicants typically pay ¥6,000 for visa status changes or extensions and ¥10,000 for permanent residency. 

Rationale Behind the Fee Increase 

The statutory cap on immigration-related fees has remained unchanged since 1982. However, the foreign resident population in Japan reached 41,30,000 by the end of 2025.  

The increase in fees is intended to cover administrative expenses linked to reviewing residency applications, including personnel costs.  

The new framework may also include costs related to digitalisation efforts, data sharing, and programmes supporting foreign residents. 

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Introduction of the Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorization (JESTA) 

The Bill also proposes the introduction of JESTA, a pre-arrival screening system for visa-exempt travellers. Expected to launch by March 31, 2029, it will require short-term visa-exempt visitors to obtain travel authorisation before arriving in Japan.  

Airlines and shipping companies will need to submit passenger data in advance and deny boarding to travellers without authorisation. 

Impact on Foreign Professionals 

With Japan expanding labour mobility ties with countries like India, higher immigration fees could increase the cost of visa renewals, residency changes, and permanent residence applications for foreign professionals and their families.  

The government aims to implement the revised fee framework by March 31, 2027. 

Conclusion 

Japan's proposed increase in visa fees aims to manage the costs associated with a rising foreign population. The changes will impact foreign residents, particularly professionals and their families, as they navigate the immigration process. 

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