Japan has announced its first revision to visa application fees in nearly half a century, introducing significantly higher charges for foreign nationals applying for entry visas. The revised fee schedule will take effect for applications submitted on or after 1 July 2026, marking the country’s first visa fee adjustment since 1978.
Approved during a Cabinet meeting on 19 June 2026, the revision is part of Japan’s broader effort to modernise its immigration system while addressing rising administrative costs driven by inflation and decades of economic change.
Although the increase is substantial, Japanese authorities have stated that they do not expect the new pricing to discourage international tourism or business travel.
New Japan Visa Fees Effective 1 July 2026
The revised fee structure introduces a fivefold increase for the country’s most common visa categories.
| Visa Type | Current Fee | New Fee |
| Single-Entry Visa | JPY 3,000 | JPY 15,000 |
| Multiple-Entry Visa | JPY 6,000 | JPY 30,000 |
According to Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the previous fee structure had remained unchanged for 48 years. Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi explained that the revision reflects accumulated inflationary pressures and exchange rate fluctuations that have significantly increased the cost of processing immigration services.
Part of a Broader Immigration Reform
The visa fee adjustment is only one component of a wider reform aimed at strengthening Japan’s immigration administration.
Additional revenue generated from the revised fees will support several government initiatives, including:
- Modernising immigration management systems;
- Accelerating the digitalisation of immigration services;
- Expanding administrative capacity to accommodate the growing number of foreign nationals;
- Supporting Japanese language education programmes; and
- Strengthening measures against immigration violations and visa overstays.
The government has also approved higher statutory fee ceilings for several immigration-related applications.
For example, the legal maximum fee for residence status changes or extensions has increased from JPY 10,000 to JPY 100,000, while the ceiling for permanent residence applications has been raised from JPY 10,000 to JPY 300,000.
In addition, Japan plans to gradually increase the actual fees for residence status changes, visa extensions, and permanent residence applications before the end of the 2026 fiscal year, which concludes on 31 March 2027.
How the Changes Affect Global Travellers
Travellers intending to visit Japan for tourism, business meetings, family visits, or other short-term purposes should take note of the implementation timeline.
Applications submitted before 1 July 2026 will continue to be processed under the existing fee structure, provided all required documents are complete and the application is accepted before the effective date.
Those planning future travel are encouraged to prepare their supporting documents early, as incomplete applications could result in delays that place the submission under the revised pricing.
Despite the higher application costs, Japan continues to rank among Asia’s leading destinations for tourism, higher education, international business, and cultural exchange. The government maintains that the revised fees are intended to improve immigration services rather than restrict visitor arrivals.
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Working with experienced visa consultants can help applicants understand the latest requirements, prepare the necessary supporting documents, and submit applications accurately from the outset.
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