Important Update: Japan’s Residency Application Fees Set for Major Increase
A heads-up for anyone planning to live or stay long-term in Japan: The Japanese government is planning a significant increase to the fees for various residency procedures (visa applications). This change is being considered to secure funding for new foreigner policies and services.
Here is a summary of the proposed changes and what you need to know.
What are the Proposed Fee Changes?
The government is discussing raising the fees substantially, particularly for key procedures:
| Procedure | Current Fee | Proposed Fee (Estimate) | Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Change of Status of Residence or Renewal (for 1+ years) | ¥6,000 | Approximately ¥30,000 to ¥40,000 | 5x to 7x |
| Permanent Residency (Eiju) Permit | ¥10,000 | Over ¥100,000 | 10x or More |
This means that renewing your long-term visa or changing your status (e.g., from Student to Working Visa) could cost several times more than the current fee. Applying for Permanent Residency may see the biggest jump, potentially costing over ¥100,000.
Why is the Government Making This Change?
Japan’s population of foreign residents has reached a record high—around 3.96 million as of June this year. The government needs more funding to manage this growth and create a better environment for everyone.
The revenue generated from these higher fees is planned to be used for two main purposes:
Improving the Acceptance Environment
Funding for better support, services, and infrastructure for foreign residents (e.g., multilingual support, community integration programs).
Immigration Management
Covering the costs associated with the deportation of undocumented residents.
Essentially, the fees you pay will be used to fund the system that supports and manages foreign residents in Japan.
What Does This Mean for You?
This proposal, if enacted, will directly impact your financial planning for your life in Japan:
Higher Cost of Staying
You must budget significantly more for mandatory visa renewals and applications. For many students or those in entry-level jobs, the proposed ¥30,000–¥40,000 for a renewal will be a substantial expense.
Permanent Residency Decision
The high cost for a Permanent Residency application (¥100,000+) might make applicants think twice, but it is a one-time fee for a lifetime status.
Expect Better Services
Since the fees are increasing to fund “Acceptance Environment Improvement,” foreign residents will naturally expect to see better, faster, and more comprehensive services from the Immigration Bureau and local governments.
Next Steps
This is currently a proposal under consideration. It is not yet law. However, given the urgent need for foreign policy funding, it is likely to be pushed forward. We will continue to monitor the news and provide updates on when these changes might take effect.
Stay informed and adjust your financial plans accordingly as you pursue your goal of living in Japan.
Your Gateway to JAPAN
Ensure Japan Success !
―
Visa Japan Tokyo provides one-stop services for business setup, visa procedures, and more. Take the first step towards your Japanese venture—contact us today!