New immigration reforms aim to manage rising costs as foreign visitor numbers grow
TOKYO: Japan will introduce a major increase in visa fees starting July 1, marking the first revision in nearly five decades as the government seeks to cover the rising costs of its immigration system.
Under the new policy, approved by the cabinet on June 19, fees for single-entry visas will rise fivefold from ¥3,000 to ¥15,000, while multiple-entry visas will increase from ¥6,000 to ¥30,000. The move will mainly affect tourists and business travellers from countries that require visas to enter Japan.
Officials say the increase reflects decades of inflation and changes in global exchange rates. Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi said the current fees no longer match the administrative costs of processing visas and managing border controls.
Despite the sharp rise, the government believes demand for travel to Japan will remain strong. The country has seen record numbers of international visitors in recent years, supported by a weaker yen and global interest in destinations such as Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka.
The visa fee hike is part of a broader immigration reform plan. New legislation passed in May allows authorities to significantly raise fees for services such as visa renewals and residency applications. For example, permanent residency fees could rise from ¥10,000 to as much as ¥200,000, with final amounts to be decided later.
Officials say the additional revenue will help manage Japan’s growing foreign population, which reached a record 4.13 million at the end of 2025. The funds are expected to support staffing, technology upgrades, and language education programmes, as well as stronger enforcement against visa overstays.
Japan is also planning to introduce a new electronic travel authorisation system, known as JESTA, by 2028. The system will require travellers from visa-exempt countries to submit personal and travel details before departure, allowing authorities to screen visitors in advance.
Together, these measures signal a shift toward tighter and more modern immigration controls as Japan adapts to increasing global mobility.
