Japan raises visa fees fivefold, first increase in 48 years

The Japanese government announced on 19 June 2026 that visa fees for foreign nationals will rise sharply. Effective 1 July 2026, the fee for a single‑entry visa will increase from ¥3,000 to ¥15,000 and the fee for a multiple‑entry visa from ¥6,000 to ¥30,000 – a 400 % (five‑fold) hike and the first revision since 1978.

Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi said the change reflects inflation, the yen’s depreciation and the need to bring Japan’s charges in line with other G7 economies. He added that the increase is not expected to have an immediate impact on inbound tourism.

The higher fees are intended to generate additional revenue to cover the growing administrative costs of managing a record 4.13 million foreign residents at the end of 2025. The extra income will support immigration‑related services, expanded Japanese‑language education programmes, and measures against illegal overstayers. The same legislation also raises statutory caps on fees for residency‑status changes, extensions and permanent‑residency applications, with ceilings now set at ¥100,000‑¥300,000.

All visa applications submitted on or after 1 July 2026 will be subject to the new rates, regardless of the applicant’s country of origin.