Japan to Raise Visa and Departure Fees to Tackle Overtourism

The Japanese government is preparing to increase visa issuance fees for foreign visitors starting in fiscal 2026. This will be the first hike since 1978, as current charges are much lower than in the United States and Europe. The move aims to generate funds to deal with overtourism, which has led to overcrowding and environmental strain at major tourist destinations.

Japan Visa Fees to Rise After 4 Decades

At present, a single-entry visa costs ¥3,000 (about ₹1,725), while double-entry or multiple-entry visas are priced at ¥6,000 (around ₹3,450). These rates are considerably lower than those in many developed countries. For example, the United States charges $185 for a business or tourist visa, the UK charges £127 (₹13,400) for a short-term stay, and the European Union charges €90 (₹8,100) for a Schengen visa.

To bring Japan’s fees in line with global standards, authorities plan to significantly raise visa costs. The extra income will help address problems caused by the sharp rise in visitors, such as damage to natural sites, congestion, and pressure on local infrastructure.

Departure Tax Under Review

Japan’s international departure tax, introduced in 2019, currently stands at a flat ¥1,000 (₹575) for all travellers leaving the country. Officials are now reviewing this rate and may adjust it to match international norms. In Germany, for instance, departure taxes range from ₹1,600 to ₹7,000 depending on the flight destination.

New Travel Authorisation System Coming

In addition to higher fees, Japan plans to introduce the Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (JESTA) by 2028. This will be similar to the European Union’s ETIAS system and will apply to travellers from visa-waiver countries. The electronic authorisation is expected to cost around ¥6,000 (₹3,450).

Managing a Tourism Boom

Japan recorded a record 36.87 million foreign visitors in 2024. While tourism boosts the economy, it has also created issues such as crowding at temples, shrines, and scenic areas. The planned fee increases and new systems are part of a broader effort to manage this growing influx of tourists more sustainably.

Read more: Want to Bring Your Brother or Sister to the U.S.? Here’s How the Green Card Process Really Works.

Conclusion

By raising visa and departure fees and introducing JESTA, Japan hopes to balance the benefits of tourism with the need to protect its environment and local communities. The measures are expected to take effect from April 2026 as part of Japan’s upcoming economic package.

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