Japan to raise visa fees for foreign nationals starting July 1

The government decided to raise visa fees for foreign nationals at a Cabinet meeting Friday. The new rates apply to applications filed on or after July 1 and represent the first adjustment since 1978. Single-entry visas will cost ¥15,000 instead of ¥3,000, while multiple-entry visas will cost ¥30,000 instead of ¥6,000.

Officials said the increases reflect inflation and exchange-rate changes since the fees were last set.

Residency and permanent-stay fees also rising The Upper House passed legislation last month that raises statutory caps on residency-status changes and extensions from ¥10,000 to ¥100,000 and on permanent-residency applications from ¥10,000 to ¥300,000.

Actual fees within those caps will be set by Cabinet order. Proposed new ranges include ¥10,000 to ¥70,000 for residency changes and extensions, and ¥200,000 for permanent-residency applications. Implementation is targeted before the end of the next fiscal year on March 31, 2027.

Revenue to fund immigration administration Officials stated the added revenue will cover costs tied to a record 4.13 million foreign residents at the end of 2025. Funds will also support Japanese-language programs and measures against illegal overstays.

The government noted that comparable fees in the United States range from about $420 to $470 and in Germany from €93 to €98. Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi said the decision followed review of multiple factors and is not expected to affect inbound tourism immediately.