Japan to increase visa renewal fee for foreign residents

Japan is set to increase visa renewal and permanent residency fees, with the government proposing higher charges under amendments to the Immigration Control Act, according to a report by Nikkei Asia. The move will raise costs for foreign residents while allowing flexibility for fee setting within new limits.

An official from the Immigration Services Agency told Japan’s lower house of parliament that the revised fee structure will apply across visa categories, including long-term stays and permanent residency permits.

Five-year visa renewal to cost around 70,000 yen

Under the proposal, the fee for renewing a five-year visa will rise to about 70,000 yen ($440). Short-term visa renewals of three months or less will cost around 10,000 yen.


At present, in-person visa renewals are charged at 6,000 yen regardless of the duration of stay.

The fee for permanent residency permits is set for a significant increase to about 200,000 yen, compared to the current 10,000 yen.

Government sets higher fee ceilings

The Cabinet has submitted amendments to the Immigration Control Act to raise the maximum limits for such charges. The proposed caps are 300,000 yen for permanent residency permits and 100,000 yen for other visa categories.

Final fees will be determined through government directives within these limits.

Officials said provisions will remain for applicants facing financial hardship, who may be eligible for reduced fees or exemptions.

The proposed changes are part of a broader effort to revise immigration-related policies, with authorities adjusting fee structures alongside evolving administrative and regulatory needs.