Visa fees increase sharply from July 1
Japan has increased visa charges for foreign visitors for the first time since 1978. From July 1, the cost of a single entry visa has gone up from 3,000 yen to 15,000 yen. Multi entry visas now cost 30,000 yen instead of 6,000 yen.
Officials say the change was introduced to reflect inflation and currency shifts.
Permanent residency and stay extensions also get more expensive
Japan has also raised several immigration related fees. The maximum fee for permanent residency applications has been increased to 300,000 yen, compared to the previous cap of 10,000 yen.
Changing residency status or extending a stay will now cost up to 100,000 yen, a sharp rise from 10,000 yen earlier.
Government expects limited impact on tourism
Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi said the country does not expect an immediate drop in tourism despite higher costs. He explained that Japan’s visa fees now better align with other major economies.
Authorities point out that countries like the United States charge $185 to $315 for non immigrant visas, while short term UK visas cost about £135.
Tourism still strong despite higher costs
Japan has seen a major tourism boom in recent years. A weaker yen and post pandemic travel demand brought a record 42.7 million international visitors last year.
Officials believe the increase will not slow arrivals in the short term.
