Japan Proposes Major Visa Fee Hike; Extensions May Rise 10x and Permanent Residency 30x

growing foreign resident population.

Cabinet Approves Bill to Revise Immigration Fees

On March 10, 2026, the Japanese Cabinet approved a bill to amend the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act. The amendment proposes raising the legal ceiling on immigration-related fees for the first time in more than four decades.

Under the proposed changes, the maximum fee for changing visa status or extending the period of stay could increase from ¥10,000 to ¥100,000. Meanwhile, the statutory cap for permanent residency applications may rise sharply from ¥10,000 to ¥300,000.

Although the final fees will be determined later, the government is reportedly considering charges of about ¥70,000 for visa status changes or extensions and around ¥200,000 for permanent residence applications. Currently, applicants generally pay ¥6,000 for visa changes or extensions and ¥10,000 for permanent residency.

Reason Behind the Fee Increase

The last revision of immigration-related fees in Japan took place in 1982. Since then, the country has witnessed a significant rise in its foreign population.

Government data indicates that the number of foreign residents reached approximately 4.13 million by the end of 2025. Officials say the proposed fee hike is intended to cover the increasing administrative costs involved in reviewing and processing immigration applications.

The revised framework may also help fund digitalisation initiatives, data-sharing systems, and support programmes designed to assist foreign residents living in the country.

New Pre-Arrival Screening System: JESTA

The proposed legislation also includes plans to introduce the Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorization (JESTA).

The system will function as a pre-arrival screening mechanism for travellers from visa-exempt countries. Once implemented, visitors planning short-term trips will need to obtain travel authorisation before entering the country.

Authorities expect JESTA to become operational by March 31, 2029. Under the system, airlines and shipping companies will be required to submit passenger information in advance and prevent boarding for travellers who do not receive the required authorisation.

Potential Impact on Foreign Professionals

The proposed immigration reforms may affect foreign professionals working in Japan, especially as the country expands labour mobility partnerships with nations such as India.

Higher visa-related costs could increase the financial burden associated with visa renewals, residency status changes, and permanent residence applications for foreign workers and their families.

The Japanese government aims to implement the revised fee structure by March 31, 2027, subject to legislative approval.

Summary

• Japan has proposed a significant increase in immigration-related fees.
• Visa status changes or extensions may rise up to 10 times, while permanent residency caps could increase up to 30 times.
• The reform is part of amendments to the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act.
• The government aims to address rising administrative costs linked to a growing foreign population.
• A new travel authorisation system called JESTA will be introduced by March 31, 2029 for visa-exempt travellers.

The revised fee structure is expected to be implemented by March 31, 2027.

Disclaimer

This article is based on publicly available information and official statements. The content is intended for informational purposes only. The publication does not independently verify third-party claims or assertions mentioned in the developments.