China hikes visa fees for Japanese citizens by sevenfold

China has announced a significant increase in visa application fees for Japanese citizens, effective September 14. The new rates represent an approximately sevenfold increase for single-entry visas, rising from 2,250 yen to 16,750 yen. Multi-entry visa fees are also rising sharply; for instance, a one-year multi-entry visa will increase from 7,500 yen to 50,250 yen.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning stated that the adjustment is based on the principle of “reciprocity.” This move follows a decision by the Japanese government in July to increase visa fees for foreign nationals by fivefold. Observers note that because many countries, including the US and South Korea, benefit from mutual visa exemptions with Japan, the Japanese fee hike was perceived as specifically targeting Chinese tourists.

While Japanese citizens currently benefit from a visa exemption for short-term stays of up to 30 days, the impact of these higher fees may intensify if the exemption is not extended beyond December 31.